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Bulgaria Visa Photo Requirements for Indians 2026

If you are an Indian citizen planning to visit Bulgaria, one of the key components of your visa application is a compliant visa photo. Known for its charming blend of ancient architecture, stunning Black Sea coast, and picturesque mountains, Bulgaria offers a captivating experience. Meeting the exact Bulgaria visa photo requirements is crucial, as failure to do so can result in delays or rejections.

In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on Bulgaria visa photo requirements for Indian tourists, ensuring that your visa application proceeds without any complications.

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Bulgaria Visa Photo Format Requirements

The visa photo for Bulgaria must meet specific criteria to ensure it is accepted by the Bulgarian consulate. Whether you’re applying for a tourist visa or another type of visa, the photo must adhere to the guidelines below. These rules apply to both physical and digital photo submissions.

Visa Type Photo Form Quantity Format File Size
Tourist Electronic 1 Photo JPEG/PNG Minimum 50 KB & Maximum 10 MB
Tourist Physical 2 Photos Printed Photo N/A

Ensuring your Bulgaria visa passport photo size meets these specifications is important to avoid delays in your visa processing. Whether you’re applying online or through a physical submission, adhering to the guidelines is essential for a smooth application process.

Bulgaria Visa Photo Size, Age & Background

Photo Size in MM

Bulgaria visa photo size is 35mm x 45mm. This is the standard size used for most visa photos internationally.

Photo Size in CM

In centimeters, the visa photo should measure 3.5cm x 4.5cm. This is a common measurement, and most photo services can provide you with a photo that meets these dimensions.

Photo Size in Inches

If you prefer to think in inches, the equivalent photo sizes of Bulgaria visa are approximately 1.37 inches x 1.77 inches.

Photo Size in Pixels

For digital photo submissions, the Bulgaria visa photo size in pixel dimensions must be 600 x 800 pixels to ensure the appropriate resolution and clarity.

Age of the Photo

Your Bulgaria visa photo must have been taken within the last six months. This ensures that the photo reflects your current appearance. Using an outdated photo may cause delays or rejection of your visa application.

Color

The visa photo must be in full color. Black-and-white photos will not be accepted by the Bulgarian authorities. Full-color photos help to ensure your facial features are captured accurately.

Background

The background of your visa photo must be plain white or light gray. No patterns, objects, or shadows are allowed. The simplicity of the background ensures that your face is the focal point and is clearly visible. It is important that the background remains even and well-lit, with no dark or bright spots.

Lighting

Proper lighting is essential for a compliant visa photo. The lighting should be even and natural, illuminating your face without creating any shadows. Harsh lighting or overly dark photos may result in rejection, as they can obscure key facial features. The light should come from in front of you to avoid any shadows across your face.

Facial Appearance/Size (Ratio of the Face to the Photo)

Your face should occupy between 70-80% of the photo’s total area. This means that the distance from the bottom of your chin to the top of your head should be approximately 32mm to 36mm. Make sure your face is centered in the photo and clearly visible. The correct ratio ensures that your face is easy to identify and not too small or large within the frame.

Face Orientation (Head Positioning and Alignment)

Your head must be positioned straight and centered in the photo. You should be looking directly at the camera with your head fully upright. The Bulgarian authorities require that both ears be visible, and there should be no tilting or turning of the head in any direction. A properly aligned face ensures that the photo captures your features accurately and makes identification easier during the visa process.

Expression (Neutral, No Smiling)

You must maintain a neutral expression to meet Bulgaria visa photo specifications for Indians. Smiling, frowning, or any other expression is not allowed, as these can distort your facial features. Your mouth should remain closed, and both eyes should be open. You must look directly into the camera lens without tilting your head.

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Bulgaria Visa Photo Attire & Accessories

Attire

When taking your visa photo, wear simple and formal clothing. Bright colors, patterns, or logos should be avoided as they can be distracting. A plain, dark-colored shirt or blouse is recommended, as it creates a good contrast against the light background. Uniforms, unless worn for religious reasons, are not permitted.

Accessories

Glasses/Spectacles

It is advised to remove glasses when taking your Bulgaria visa photo. Glasses are generally not allowed, as reflections from the lenses or the frame can obscure your eyes and face. If you must wear glasses for medical reasons, ensure they are clear, with no tints, and that there is no glare or shadow on your face.

Health Accessories

Medical devices such as hearing aids are permitted, but they must not obstruct your facial features. Make sure that any necessary medical accessories are discreet and do not interfere with the photo’s clarity.

Jewelry

Jewelry is allowed, but it should be minimal and non-obstructive. Large earrings or necklaces that cover part of your face or reflect light may cause your photo to be rejected. Keep your accessories simple to ensure your face is fully visible.

Headwear

Headwear is only permitted for religious or medical reasons. If you wear headgear for religious purposes, it should not cover any part of your face. Your full facial features, from chin to forehead, must be visible. Decorative or casual headgear is not allowed.

Makeup

Minimal, natural-looking makeup is acceptable according to Bulgaria visa photo guidelines. Avoid heavy makeup, bold lipstick, or false eyelashes, as these can alter the appearance of your face. The objective is to ensure that your facial features are clearly visible and not obscured by any form of cosmetics.

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Bulgaria Visa Photo Requirements for Children under 1 Year

Bulgaria visa photo requirements for Indians

For infants under 1 year, Bulgaria visa photo requirements for Indian tourists are slightly more flexible:

  • It is acceptable if the baby’s eyes are closed.
  • Visible support, like a parent’s hand or a chair, is allowed.
  • Ensure the supporting object or hand is not visible in the photo.
  • The baby’s face should be fully visible.

Bulgaria Visa Photo Requirements for Children under 10 Years

For children under 10 years old, the general rules are similar to those for adults, with some leniency:

  • The child should face the camera directly.
  • A neutral expression with both eyes open is required.
  • Parents or guardians can assist in positioning.
  • Parents or guardians should not be visible in the final photo.

Reasons for Bulgaria Visa Photo Rejections

Bulgaria visa photo requirements for Indians

Bulgaria visa photo requirements for Indians

Bulgaria visa photo requirements for Indians

 Bulgaria visa photo requirements for Indians

Visa photo rejections can happen for several reasons, most of which are avoidable by following the specified guidelines. Below are some common reasons for rejection:

  1. Incorrect size: Photos that do not meet the required size will be rejected.
  2. Improper background: A background that is not plain white or light gray, or that contains objects or shadows, will cause the photo to be rejected.
  3. Facial obstructions: Glasses with reflections, large jewelry, or headgear not worn for religious purposes may result in rejection.
  4. Poor lighting: Photos that are overexposed, underexposed, or have shadows on the face or background will be rejected.
  5. Facial expressions: Smiling, frowning, or other expressions that alter the face from its natural appearance will lead to rejection.
  6. Old photos: Submitting a photo that is older than six months can result in rejection.

To avoid delays or having to resubmit your application, make sure to double-check that you meet Bulgaria visa photo quality standards for Indians.

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FAQs

What is the standard size for visa photos for Indian tourists traveling to Bulgaria?

For Indian tourists traveling to Bulgaria, the standard size for visa photos is 35mm x 45mm.

Can I use a photo with a colored background for my Bulgaria visa application?

No, a plain white or light gray background is required for Bulgaria visa photos.

Are glasses allowed in Bulgaria visa photos?

Glasses are generally not allowed unless medically necessary. If worn, ensure that the lenses are clear and free of glare or reflection.

What facial expression should I have in my Bulgaria visa photo?

You must have a neutral expression with no smiling. Your mouth should remain closed, and both eyes should be open and looking directly at the camera.

What should I do if my Bulgaria visa photo is rejected?

If your photo is rejected for not meeting Bulgaria visa photo requirements for Indian tourists, you will need to submit a new photo that adheres to all the specified guidelines for Bulgaria visa photos.

Are there specific requirements for infant visa photos?

No, there are no specific guidelines. Infants under 1 year can have their eyes closed, and parents can support them, but the face must remain fully visible without obstruction.