Bulgaria Business Visa (Type C Schengen) General Information
The Bulgarian business visa is a visa category designed for Turkish citizens and foreign nationals legally residing in Turkey who plan to travel to Bulgaria for short-term commercial purposes. These purposes include business meetings, participation in trade fairs, client visits, market research, contract negotiations, or intra-company training. With Bulgaria's full accession to the Schengen area by air and sea as of March 31, 2024, Type C short-stay visas issued by Bulgaria have also acquired Schengen visa status. This means that a Bulgarian business visa valid for 2026 and beyond also allows travel to other countries within the Schengen Area.
Also known as the Bulgaria work visa for short stays, this visa grants its holder the right to stay for a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day period. The cornerstone of the application is an official invitation letter from a company, trade fair organizer, or business partner in Bulgaria. This invitation must clearly document the purpose and duration of the trip and specify who will cover the expenses.
What is a Bulgaria Schengen Business Visa and Who Should Apply?
A Bulgaria Schengen business visa is mandatory for professionals, company owners, executives, and employees traveling to the country for commercial activities. Holders of Special (Green), Service (Grey), or Diplomatic (Black) passports can travel to Bulgaria visa-free for up to 90 days in a 180-day period. However, holders of Ordinary (Maroon) passports are required to obtain a visa, regardless of their travel purpose.
Individuals who need to apply include:
- Those attending meetings with a business partner in Bulgaria.
- Participants or visitors to international fairs and exhibitions.
- Professionals visiting potential clients or conducting market research.
- Employees assigned for inter-company training or short-term projects.
- Individuals traveling to make business deals or sign contracts.
Bulgaria Business Visa Application Process for 2026
The application process for a Bulgarian business visa requires careful preparation and adherence to the correct steps. Each stage of the process is crucial for a positive outcome. Applications can be submitted through visa application centers authorized by the Bulgarian Consulates (e.g., VFS Global) or directly at the consulates. The submission location depends on the jurisdiction of the consulate covering the applicant's city of residence.
Required Basic Document List
Preparing a complete and accurate application file is the most critical step. The documents listed below are a general guide, and additional documents may be requested depending on the applicant's specific situation. All documents must be current and authentic.
Bulgaria Business Visa Fees 2026
The Bulgarian business visa application fees consist of several components and may vary based on the applicant's nationality and selected services. The fees generally include the Consulate Visa Fee and the Visa Application Center Service Fee. The visa fee is set in accordance with Schengen visa fee standards. Additional services offered by the application centers, such as photography, photocopying, and courier services, can increase the total cost. As of 2026, the total cost of a Bulgarian business visa application, including all mandatory fees, is expected to be approximately between €130 and €190. These figures are subject to periodic updates and the Turkish Lira equivalent may change depending on the exchange rate. It is important to confirm the current fees on the official website of the authorized application center at the time of application.
Processing Time and Important Considerations
The processing time for Bulgarian business visa applications is typically 15 working days. However, this period can be extended due to the consulate's workload, public holidays, or requests for additional documents. As application volumes can increase, especially during fair seasons and summer months, it is advisable to apply at least 4-6 weeks before the planned travel date. Care must be taken to ensure there are no inconsistencies in the application form and supporting documents, particularly that the travel dates, hotel reservations, and dates on the invitation letter are all aligned. After entering Bulgaria, it is crucial not to overstay the visa validity period to avoid negatively impacting future Schengen visa applications.
Hermes Vize for Your Bulgaria Business Visa Application
The Bulgarian business visa process, with its detailed requirements and reliance on a correctly formatted invitation, can be complex. Hermes Vize offers professional support to navigate these procedures, helping you prepare a complete and accurate application file to minimize the risk of formal errors. Our experienced team can guide you through the document preparation and application submission steps. Contact us to learn more about how we can facilitate your business travel plans to Bulgaria.
Gerekli Evraklar
- Business Invitation: Original, barcoded invitation approved by the Bulgarian Migration Directorate (Foreigners' Branch).
- Passport: Valid for at least 3 months after the planned departure date, with at least 2 blank pages.
- Biometric Photo: 2 recent photos, on a white background, 35x45 mm in size.
- Visa Application Form: Fully and correctly completed, and originally signed.
- Travel Health Insurance: Valid in all Schengen countries, with a minimum coverage of €30,000.
- Travel Reservations: Round-trip flight tickets or reservations for other means of transport.
- Proof of Accommodation: Hotel reservation or a statement in the invitation that accommodation is covered.
- Company Documents (for Employees): Certificate of activity, tax plate, signature circular, trade registry gazette copies.
- Employer Letter: An original signed and stamped letter on the company's letterhead, stating the purpose of the visit, position, travel dates, and a commitment that the company will cover all expenses.
- SGK Service Record and Employment Declaration: Barcoded and up-to-date.
- Salary Slips: For the last 3 months, signed and stamped.
- Proof of Financial Means: Bank account statements for the last 3 months, showing sufficient funds (stamped and signed).
- Fair Participation Document (if applicable): Registration or entry ticket if attending a fair as a participant or visitor.
- ID Card Copy: Photocopy of the Turkish Republic ID card.
Ücret Bilgisi
The Bulgarian business visa fee consists of the consulate fee and the service fee of the intermediary application center. For 2026, the Schengen visa fee is typically €90. The application center's service fee is around €30-€40. Excluding optional services (courier, photos, etc.), the total cost is estimated to be between €130-€190. Fees are payable at the time of application in the local currency (TRY) equivalent, as per the rate published by the application center, via cash or card.
Application Process
4 steps- 1Step 1
Obtaining Invitation and Document Preparation
The first and most crucial step is to obtain the business invitation, approved by the Migration Directorate, from your partner in Bulgaria. Once you have the invitation, prepare all necessary and current documents (company papers, financial proofs, insurance, etc.) according to your professional status.
- 2Step 2
Online Application Form and Appointment
Carefully fill out the online visa application form on the website of the authorized visa application center. After completing the form, schedule an appointment for a suitable date and time to submit your documents and provide your biometric data (fingerprints and photo).
- 3Step 3
Document Submission and Biometrics at the Application Center
On your appointment day, go to the visa application center with all your prepared documents and your passport. After your file is checked, pay the visa fee and complete the fingerprinting process. You may be exempt from this procedure if you have provided fingerprints for a Schengen visa within the last 59 months.
- 4Step 4
Application Tracking and Passport Collection
After submitting your application, you can track its status online using the reference number on the receipt provided. You will be notified by email or SMS when a decision is made. You can collect your passport from the application center in person or via an authorized courier.
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