Visa Requirements for United States Citizens to Bulgaria

As of the most recent updates, U.S. citizens generally do not require a visa to enter Bulgaria for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180-day period) for tourism, business, or personal purposes, as Bulgaria is part of the European Union (EU) and follows the Schengen Area visa policy for short stays. However, for longer stays or specific purposes such as residence, work, or business activities, a visa or residence permit may be required.

Short-Stay Visa Exemption (Tourist & Business Visits)

  • Tourist Visits: U.S. citizens can enter Bulgaria for tourism purposes without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
  • Business Visits: U.S. citizens can enter Bulgaria for business purposes without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Key Points for Short-Term Visits:

  • You must have a passport that is valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you intend to leave Bulgaria.
  • You must not exceed the 90-day limit within any 180-day period in Bulgaria or the Schengen Area.
  • No special permits or visas are needed for tourism or business visits under the 90-day limit.

Types of Long-Term Visas for U.S. Citizens

If you plan to stay in Bulgaria for more than 90 days, whether for work, study, family reunification, or other purposes, you will likely need to apply for a long-stay visa or residence permit.

1. Long-Stay Visa (Type D)

This is the most common visa for staying longer than 90 days in Bulgaria for purposes such as:

  • Work
  • Study
  • Family reunification
  • Research
  • Self-employment
  • Business

Requirements for a Long-Stay Visa (Type D):

  • Application: Submit your application to the Bulgarian consulate or embassy in the U.S.

  • Documents: Typical documents required include:

    • Valid passport (with at least 6 months' validity).
    • Proof of accommodation in Bulgaria (rental agreement, hotel booking, etc.).
    • Proof of sufficient financial means to support yourself.
    • Health insurance for your stay in Bulgaria.
    • Specific documents depending on your purpose of stay (employment contract, admission letter from an educational institution, etc.).

  • Processing Time: The processing time for a long-stay visa is usually around 10-15 business days, but it can vary depending on the type of visa and the embassy's workload.

2. Residence Permits

If you intend to stay in Bulgaria for more than 90 days, you may need to apply for a residence permit. Depending on your situation, you can apply for either:

  • Temporary Residence Permit: For stays longer than 90 days for work, study, or family reunification.
  • Permanent Residence Permit: After living in Bulgaria for a continuous period (usually 5 years under a temporary residence permit), you may apply for a permanent residence permit.

Work Visas (Business and Employment)

  • Business Visas: If you intend to establish or manage a business in Bulgaria, you may need a long-term visa (Type D) or a residence permit. Entrepreneurs and investors may be eligible for specific visas based on their business activities.

  • Employment Visas: If you have secured a job in Bulgaria, your employer will typically need to help you with obtaining the necessary visa and residence permit.

Visa for Business Residency

  • If you plan to live and conduct business in Bulgaria, you will likely need a residence permit for business activities. This includes:
    • Self-Employment Visa: If you are starting a business or working as a freelancer in Bulgaria.
    • Investor Visa: If you plan to make a significant investment in Bulgaria's economy.
    Key Requirements for Business Residency:
    • A business plan or proof of investment.
    • Proof of sufficient financial resources to support yourself and your business.
    • Legal registration of your business in Bulgaria.

Family Reunification Visa

If you are joining a family member who is already residing in Bulgaria, you may apply for a family reunification visa or residence permit. The process will depend on the legal status of your family member in Bulgaria (whether they are a Bulgarian citizen or a foreign national residing in Bulgaria).

Other Considerations

  • Visa Waiver: U.S. citizens do not need a visa for short-term stays for tourism or business, but the total number of days spent in Bulgaria and the Schengen Area should not exceed 90 days within a 180-day period.
  • Health Insurance: For long-term stays, health insurance that covers Bulgaria may be required.
  • Registration with Authorities: Upon arrival in Bulgaria, visitors who plan to stay longer than 90 days may need to register with local authorities or immigration.

Conclusion

  • Tourists and business travelers can stay in Bulgaria for up to 90 days without a visa.
  • For stays longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a long-stay visa (Type D) or a residence permit depending on your purpose (work, study, family reunification, etc.).
  • Ensure you have the necessary documentation, including proof of accommodation, health insurance, and sufficient financial resources, when applying for a long-term visa.

 

Always check with the Bulgarian Embassy or Consulate for the latest requirements, as immigration laws can change.