Bulgaria Visa Requirements for Indian Residents
Indian passport holders planning to travel to Bulgaria for tourism, business, or short-term visits must apply for a Bulgaria short-stay visa before travel. Bulgaria is not part of the Schengen Area, but it follows similar documentation standards.
This visa typically allows a short stay for tourism, family visits, or business purposes, subject to approval by Bulgarian authorities.
Required Documents for Bulgaria Visa
- Completed Bulgaria visa application form
- Valid passport
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Proof of travel purpose
- Proof of accommodation
- Proof of financial means
- Travel medical insurance
Passport Requirements
You must submit a scanned copy of your passport that meets the following criteria:
- Valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival in Bulgaria
- Contains at least one blank page
- In good condition with no damage
Photograph Requirements
One recent passport-size colour photograph that meets Bulgaria visa photo specifications:
- Plain white or light background
- Clear facial visibility with neutral expression
- No older than 6 months
Eligibility Criteria for Bulgaria Visa (Indians)
To be eligible for a Bulgaria visa, Indian residents must meet the following conditions:
- You must be residing outside Bulgaria at the time of application
- You must hold a valid Indian passport with at least 6 months validity
- You must comply with Bulgaria immigration and entry regulations
- You must not be on the list of individuals temporarily or permanently banned from entering Bulgaria
Additional Important Requirements
Proof of Travel Purpose
Provide documents that clearly explain the reason for your visit, such as:
- Tour itinerary (for tourism)
- Invitation letter (for family or business visits)
Proof of Accommodation
Submit confirmed or temporary accommodation proof for your stay in Bulgaria:
- Hotel reservations
- Invitation letter from host (if staying with friends or family)
Proof of Financial Means
You must demonstrate sufficient funds to support your stay, typically through:
- Recent bank statements
- Salary slips or proof of income
- Sponsorship letter and sponsor’s financial documents (if applicable)
Travel Insurance
Travel medical insurance is mandatory and must cover:
- Medical emergencies
- Hospitalisation
- Emergency repatriation
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bulgaria part of the Schengen Area?
No. Bulgaria is not yet a full Schengen member, but it follows similar visa documentation and entry procedures.
Can I apply for a Bulgaria visa online?
The application form can usually be completed online, but documents must be submitted at the Bulgarian embassy or visa application centre.
Is travel insurance mandatory for a Bulgaria visa?
Yes. Without valid travel medical insurance, your visa application may be rejected.
Can I apply if I have a previous Schengen visa?
A previous Schengen visa does not guarantee approval, but it may strengthen your application if you complied with visa conditions.
What are common reasons for Bulgaria visa rejection?
Incomplete documents, insufficient financial proof, unclear travel purpose, or previous immigration violations can lead to rejection.
Important Notes
- Visa requirements may change without prior notice
- Submission of documents does not guarantee visa approval
- Always verify requirements on official Bulgarian embassy websites