Visitors must have proof of sufficient funds or onward or return tickets in addition to other documents needed for the next destination. Valid health insurance is required. All visitors to
Bulgaria, other than
EU nationals, must register as foreigners at a local police station within five days of arrival. This registration is usually done as a matter of course through the hotel or accommodation establishment. Visitors are advised to check this, as a dated registration slip has to be submitted when leaving the country. Immigration and entry regulations are very strictly enforced. Passports of all
visitors should be valid for at least three months after leaving Bulgaria for those requiring a visa, and three months on entry for visa exempt nationals other than those from EU countries, whose passports must be valid for period of stay. Visitors should be prepared to show proof of valid medical insurance upon request.
Americans: Citizens of the
USA do not need a visa to visit Bulgaria for a period of up to 90 days within a six-month period. Passports must be valid for at least three months after entry.
UK nationals: British Citizens do not need a visa to visit Bulgaria for a period of up to 90 days in a six-month period. Other passport holders should check with the London
Bulgarian Embassy whether a visa is required or not. A valid passport is required.
Canadians: Canadians do not need a visa to visit Bulgaria for a period of up to 90 days within a six-month period. A passport valid for at least three months after entry is required.
Australians: Australians do not need a visa to visit Bulgaria for a period of up to 90 days within a six-month period. A passport valid for at least three months after entry is required.
South Africans: South Africans need a visa to enter Bulgaria. A passport valid for at least three months after leaving Bulgaria is required and a visa will only be issued if blank pages are available.
Irish nationals: Irish nationals do not need a visa to visit Bulgaria for a period of up to 90 days within a six-month period. A passport valid for the period of intended stay is required.
New Zealanders: New Zealanders do not require a visa for a maximum stay of 90 days within a six-month period. A valid passport valid for at least three months on entry is required.
Health
Bulgaria poses few health risks and there are no vaccinations required for entry. Travelers to Bulgaria are not at risk of contracting bird flu, although close contact with caged, wild and domestic birds should be avoided and all poultry and egg dishes well cooked as a precaution. Medical treatment can be expensive and payment is expected immediately. Facilities in local hospitals are basic and specialized treatment or equipment may not be freely available. Medical insurance, with provision for emergency evacuation, is therefore vital. Travelers from the
UK should also hold a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) in case of emergency medical treatment.
Safety
Most visits to Bulgaria are trouble-free. Violent crime is rare, but criminal groups target casinos and nightclubs and groups of young pickpockets are active in city centers and the
Black Sea holiday resorts. Car theft is common.
