Entry/Exit Requirements
"A United States passport is required for U.S. citizens who
are not also Bulgarian nationals. As of September 1, 2006, U.S.
citizens who enter the country without a Bulgarian visa are authorized
to stay for a total of 90 days within a six-month period. This law
is strictly enforced. An application to extend one’s stay
beyond the original 90 days can be filed for urgent or humanitarian
reasons, but must be submitted to regional police authorities no
later than five days prior to the end of the original 90-day period.
Travelers who have been in the country for 90 days, and then leave,
will not be able to reenter Bulgaria before the six-month period
expires. Travelers using official or diplomatic passports must secure
visas prior to arrival. Upon entering the country, Bulgarian immigration
authorities request that all foreigners declare the purpose of their
visit and provide their intended address.
U.S. citizens intending to live or work in Bulgaria for more than
90 days within six months (or more than six months within a year)
must obtain a “D” visa prior to arrival. The practice
of switching from tourist status to long-term status when already
in Bulgaria is no longer allowed. Those wanting to do so must leave
Bulgaria and apply for a “D” visa at a Bulgarian embassy
or consulate. This procedure takes roughly five weeks.
American citizens who marry Bulgarian nationals and want to switch
to long-term status must also leave the country, present their marriage
license at a Bulgarian embassy or consulate in a neighboring country,
and apply for a “D” visa.
The Bulgarian authorities do not consider presentation of a copy
of the passport sufficient for identification purposes. Visitors
should carry their original passports with them at all times. This
is not a requirement for U.S. citizens who hold residence permits
for Bulgaria." - US State Dept
For non-US Citizen requirements, please contact
us for updated information.
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