Bulgaria

Comprehensive Guide to Bulgaria Schengen Visa (2026)

As of 1 January 2025, Bulgaria is a full member of the Schengen Area. Therefore, citizens of the Republic of Türkiye holding ordinary (burgundy) passports must obtain a Schengen visa for short-term travel to Bulgaria unless they already hold a valid Schengen visa or benefit from a visa exemption.

For stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period, applicants should apply for a Bulgaria Schengen (Type C) Visa. For stays exceeding 90 days, such as employment, higher education, family reunification, or long-term residence, a Bulgaria National (Type D) Visa is required.

Travelers holding a valid multiple-entry Schengen visa or residence permit issued by a Schengen Member State may enter Bulgaria without obtaining an additional Bulgarian visa, provided all Schengen entry conditions are met.

Types of Bulgaria Visas

Bulgaria Schengen Visa (Type C)

The Bulgaria Schengen Visa (Type C) is intended for short-term stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

It is commonly issued for:

• Tourism

• Business travel

• Trade fairs and exhibitions

• Conferences and seminars

• Family and friend visits

• Cultural and sporting events

• Short-term educational programs

Depending on the applicant's circumstances, the visa may be issued as single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry at the discretion of the Bulgarian authorities.

Bulgaria National Visa (Type D)

The Bulgaria National Visa (Type D) is required for individuals planning to stay in Bulgaria for more than 90 days.

Typical purposes include:

• Employment

• University education

• Family reunification

• Long-term residence

• Business investment

Type D visa applications involve more comprehensive documentation and assessment than short-stay Schengen visa applications.

Bulgaria Schengen Visa Application Process (2026)

Obtaining a Bulgaria Schengen Visa involves several important steps.

1. Determine Your Visa Type

Choose the visa category that matches the purpose of your visit, such as tourism, business, family visit, or another eligible purpose.

2. Prepare the Required Documents

Collect all required documents according to your travel purpose and employment status. Requirements may differ for employees, self-employed individuals, business owners, students, or retirees.

3. Complete the Visa Application Form

Fill out the Schengen visa application form carefully with accurate information. Print and sign the completed form before your appointment.

4. Schedule Your Appointment

Visa applications are submitted through the authorized visa application center. Since appointment availability may be limited during peak travel seasons, applicants are advised to book their appointments 4–6 weeks before their intended travel date.

5. Submit Your Documents and Biometrics

Attend your appointment with your complete application file. Your biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) will be collected if required.

If you have provided Schengen biometric data within the last 59 months, you may not need to provide fingerprints again in certain cases. However, the final decision rests with the competent authorities.

6. Application Assessment

Your application will be evaluated by the Bulgarian Consular authorities. Additional documents or information may be requested if necessary.

7. Passport Collection

Once your application has been finalized, you may collect your passport in person or have it delivered through courier services, if available.

Required Documents for a Bulgaria Schengen Visa

Required documentation varies depending on the applicant's profile; however, the standard documents generally include:

• Passport valid for at least three months beyond the planned departure date

• Passport containing at least two blank visa pages

• Two biometric photographs (35 × 45 mm) taken within the last six months

• Completed and signed Schengen visa application form

• Travel medical insurance with minimum coverage of €30,000

• Round-trip flight reservation

• Hotel reservation or proof of accommodation

• Recent bank statements demonstrating sufficient financial means

• Proof of income and employment

• Supporting documents based on employment status

Additional Documents for a Bulgaria Business Schengen Visa

Business visa applicants are generally required to submit:

• Business invitation letter from the host company in Bulgaria

• Company registration documents

• Tax certificate

• Commercial registry documents

• Signature circular (where applicable)

• Proof of employment or employer letter

• Social security registration or employment records (if applicable)

Common Reasons for Bulgaria Schengen Visa Refusal

The most common reasons for visa refusal include:

• Incomplete or inaccurate documentation

• Failure to demonstrate the genuine purpose of travel

• Insufficient financial resources

• Unverifiable travel or accommodation reservations

• Previous violations of Schengen immigration rules

• Submission of false or misleading documents

• Concerns relating to public security or public health

Submitting a complete and well-prepared application significantly reduces the likelihood of refusal.

Bulgaria Schengen Visa Assistance with Hermes Vize

Applying for a Bulgaria Schengen Visa requires careful preparation and compliance with current Schengen regulations.

Hermes Vize provides professional guidance throughout the entire application process, including:

• Document verification

• Preparation of the application file

• Appointment assistance

• Visa application form completion

• Pre-submission document review

Our experienced consultants help ensure your application complies with the latest Schengen visa requirements, enabling you to complete the process efficiently and confidently.