Bulgaria Family & Friend Visit

Bulgaria Family and Friend Visit Visa (Schengen Type C) 2026 Guide

The Bulgaria Family and Friend Visit Visa is required for Turkish citizens wishing to visit family members, relatives, or friends legally residing in Bulgaria. Since March 2024, with Bulgaria's full accession to the Schengen Area, this visa functions as a Schengen visa. It grants the holder the right to stay in Bulgaria for a specific period and to travel to other Schengen countries. The cornerstone of the application is an official invitation letter issued by the person inviting you in Bulgaria.

Bulgaria Visit Visa and the Schengen Connection

The Bulgaria family visit visa is a short-stay (Type C) Schengen visa. This means that visa holders have the right to free movement within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. However, according to Schengen rules, it is recommended that the first point of entry be Bulgaria, the country that issued the visa, and that the longest part of the stay is planned in Bulgaria.

Eligibility for a Bulgaria Family Visit Visa

The most fundamental requirement for applying for this visa category is to have a valid invitation from someone living in Bulgaria. The applicant is also expected to prove with documents that they have sufficient financial means to cover their travel expenses, strong ties to Turkey (job, family, property) indicating their intention to return, and that the sole purpose of the trip is the visit.

The Importance and Content of the Invitation Letter

The invitation letter is the most critical document for Bulgaria relative visit visa applications. This document is not a standard letter but must be prepared according to official procedures. Known as 'ПОКАНА-ДЕКЛАРАЦИЯ' (Pokana-Deklaratsiya), this document must be certified by the Migration Directorate in Bulgaria by the inviting person.

Key information that must be included in the invitation:

• Inviter's Information: Full name, address, phone number, legal status in Bulgaria (citizen, residence permit holder, etc.).
• Invitee's (Applicant's) Information: Full name, date of birth, passport number.
• Travel Details: Purpose of the visit (family/friend visit), planned travel dates, and duration of stay.
• Coverage of Expenses: A declaration by the inviter that they will cover the accommodation and other expenses of their guest.

The original and a copy of the invitation must be submitted with the application file. As the approval process for the invitation can take several weeks, application planning should take this into account.

Required Documents for Bulgaria Friend Visit Visa 2026

The documents to be prepared for the application process must clearly demonstrate both the applicant's personal and financial situation and the purpose of the trip. The documents listed below provide a general framework, and the consulate reserves the right to request additional documents.

• Passport: Valid for at least 3 months after the planned departure from the Schengen area, with at least 2 blank pages. Old passports, if any.
• Visa Application Form: Completed with accurate information, signed.
• Biometric Photograph: 2 copies, 35x45 mm, with a white background, recent.
• Travel Health Insurance: Valid in all Schengen countries, with a minimum coverage of €30,000.
• Travel Itinerary: Round-trip flight ticket reservations or proof of other transportation.
• Proof of Accommodation: Hotel reservations, if the invitation does not state that accommodation will be provided by the inviter.
• Proof of Financial Means: Bank account statements for the last 3 months (signed, stamped), salary slips, and copies of title deeds and vehicle licenses, if any.
• Documents According to the Applicant's Professional Status:
  • Employees: Letter of leave from the employer, social security (SGK) service record, SGK employment declaration, last 3 months' salary slips.
  • Business Owners: Company documents (tax plate, certificate of activity, signature circular, trade registry gazette).
  • Students: Student certificate and documents of the sponsor who will cover the expenses.
  • Retirees: Pension certificate and statement.
• Certificate of Family Registration: A full certificate of family registration showing family ties.

Application Process and Fees

Applications for the Bulgaria family visit visa can be made through visa application centers authorized by the Bulgarian Consulates (e.g., VFS Global) or directly through the consulates themselves. For applications made through an application center, a service fee is paid in addition to the visa fee.

Estimated Visa Fees for 2026

Visa fees may be updated periodically. As of 2026, estimated costs may include:

• Schengen Visa Fee: Approximately €90 for adults. Discounts or exemptions may apply for certain age groups and situations.
• Application Center Service Fee: A service charge varying between approximately €30-€40.
• Additional Services: Extra fees may be charged for optional services such as photography, photocopying, and courier services.

The fees mentioned are estimates, and it is important to confirm the current amounts on the website of the relevant application center or consulate at the time of application.

Your Bulgaria Family and Friend Visit Visa Application with Hermes Vize

The application process for a Bulgaria family and friend visit visa can be complex, particularly due to the official invitation procedures. The experienced consultants at Hermes Vize provide professional support in ensuring your file is prepared completely and accurately, organized according to the current document list, and that your application process is monitored. To manage your application correctly and simplify your process, you can contact our expert team.

Frequently Asked Questions