Complete Guide on Bulgaria Visa for Indians

Do you dream of vacationing in Bulgaria’s majestic mountains, exploring ancient fortresses, and golden beaches? A Bulgaria visa for Indians is your gateway to exploring this Eastern European gem with its breathtaking landscapes and rich history. 

While the application process might initially seem daunting, securing the visa becomes remarkably straightforward with proper guidance and preparation. 

Let’s help you sort out all the major details—from eligibility criteria to documentation to processing times—so you can enjoy Bulgaria’s medieval towns, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture without visa hassles.

Do Indians Need a Bulgaria Visa?

Yes, Indian passport holders must obtain a visa before traveling to Bulgaria. As of January 1, 2025, Bulgaria has officially joined the Schengen Area, meaning Indian citizens must apply for a Schengen visa for tourism purposes. 

The short-stay tourist visa allows Indian travelers to enter Bulgaria and freely move throughout other Schengen member states without additional border controls. 

Bulgaria Visas for Indians

For Indian tourists planning to visit Bulgaria, the Schengen short-stay visa (Type C) is the best option. 

• This tourist visa is issued for single, two, or multiple entries. 
• It allows Indian travelers to enter Bulgaria for leisure/tourism with a maximum stay of 90 days within any 180-day validity period. 
• As Bulgaria is now part of the Schengen Area, this visa permits travel throughout all Schengen member states during the validity period.

Visa Name	Entry	Stay Duration	Validity	Fees (EUR/INR)	Processing Time	Form
Schengen Short-Term Tourist Visa (Adult)	Single/Multiple	Up to 90 days within 180 days	180 days	EUR 90 (approx. INR 8,550)	15 working days (can extend to 45 days)	Online

Note: A multiple entry Bulgaria tourist visa with a term of validity of up to one year may be issued to Indians, provided that she/he has received a short-stay visa in the previous year and has been used in accordance with the legal provisions for entry and residence in the Republic of Bulgaria.

In addition, an Indian tourist cannot work in Bulgaria on a short-stay visa.

Bulgaria Visa Eligibility for Indians

To be eligible for a Bulgaria visa for Indians, Indian nationals must fulfill specific criteria for Bulgaria visa eligibility for Indians, as established by the Bulgaria embassy and Schengen regulations:

• A valid Indian passport with a minimum validity of six months.
• The passport presented during application must contain at least two completely blank pages to accommodate visa stamps, entry and exit stamps.
• Applicants need to demonstrate their ability to support themselves financially. You must submit:
• Bank statements
• Sponsorship letters or other acceptable financial documents 
• All travelers must present confirmed return or onward journey tickets that indicate their intention to leave Bulgaria before their visa expires.
• Applicants should have a clean legal record, no criminal background, or no previous immigration violations.
• A travel medical insurance with coverage of at least €30,000 that remains active throughout their entire stay in the Schengen Area.

Bulgaria Visa Fees for Indians

The Bulgaria tourist visa fees for Indians depend on the type of visa and the age of the applicants:

Types of Visas	Visa Duration	Fees in EUR	Fees in INR
Schengen Short-Term Tourist Visa (Adult)	Up to 90 days within 180 days	EUR 90	Approx. INR 8,550
Schengen Short-Term Tourist Visa (Child 6-12 years)	Up to 90 days within 180 days	Free	Free
Schengen Short-Term Tourist Visa (Child under 6 years)	Up to 90 days within a 180-day period	Free	Free

Additional Fees Breakdown:

• VFS Logistics: INR 2,070
• Courier Fee (optional): INR 720
• SMS Service (optional): INR 360
• Optional Premium Lounge: INR 3,060
• Optional Courier Assurance: INR 900
• OneVasco Service Fee: INR 2,500

Note: All fees are subject to change. Please consult the official website for updated information.

Bulgaria Visa Requirements & Documents for Indians

The following Bulgaria visa documents for Indians are required to ensure a smooth visa process. This section also includes major Bulgaria visa requirements for Indians:

Personal Documents

• A valid passport with at least six months’ validity with two blank pages for visa stamps.
• Recent passport-sized photographs (35mm x 45mm) with a white background.
• A fully completed and signed Schengen visa application form.
• A travel medical insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000.

Financial Documents

• Recent bank statements from the past 6 months with a sufficient account balance to cover all expenses.
• Formal proof of employment
• No-Objection Certificate from your employer.
• Business registration documents for self-employed individuals
• Company registration certificates for business owners.
• Income tax returns for the previous 1-2 financial years, stamped by the Income Tax Department or with verifiable digital signatures
• Recent salary slips from the past 3 months confirming your current employment status, preferably on company letterhead.

Travel Documents

• A detailed travel itinerary showing your complete travel route, including all connecting flights to and from Bulgaria.
• Confirmed hotel reservations covering your entire stay in Bulgaria.
• Return flight tickets or proof of onward travel demonstrating your intention to leave Bulgaria and the Schengen Area before your visa expires.
• A comprehensive day-by-day travel itinerary outlining your planned activities, places to visit, and internal travel arrangements within Bulgaria and any other Schengen countries you plan to visit.

Bulgaria Visa Process for Indians

1. Identify your visa type: When you visit the VFS Global site, you select the Tourist Visa category.
2. Gather all required documents meticulously: Compile all the necessary documents to fill out the visa application form.
3. Complete the online Schengen visa application form: Fill out the Schengen visa application form accurately and thoroughly, providing detailed information about your personal background, travel plans, accommodation arrangements, and the purpose of your visit to Bulgaria.
4. Schedule your visa appointment with the appropriate consulate: Book an appointment at your nearest Visa Application Center managed by VFS Global in India.
1. Create an account after choosing your preferred visa application center, and book your appointment slot. 
2. You can learn more about how to book a Bulgaria appointment here.
5. Pay the required visa processing fees: Submit the non-refundable visa application fee of €90 (approximately INR 8,550) using the accepted payment methods specified by VFS Global. Keep the payment receipt as proof for your application.
6. Attend your scheduled visa interview: Appear at the Bulgarian visa application centre at your appointed time with all original documents and their copies, prepared to answer questions about your travel plans, financial situation, and ties to India that ensure your return.
7. Submit your complete application package: Present all your meticulously prepared documents to the consular officer, including your application form, passport, biometrics, photographs, financial proof, travel itinerary, and all original documents. 
8. Wait for your visa application to be processed: Allow a minimum of 15 business days for standard processing, during which consular officials will verify your information, conduct necessary background checks, and decide your application status. You can use the tracking application number to check your visa status.
9. Collect your passport: Once processed, collect your passport with the visa decision from the visa application center or via courier service. If your visa is approved, your passport will contain a sticker visa.

Suggested Read: How to Check Bulgaria Visa Status Online for Indians?

Things to Keep in Mind for the Visa Application Process

While filling out the visa application process, here are some things to consider:

1. Visa application forms must be submitted not earlier than 3 months before the date of the intended travel, personally or through an authorized agent, with the exception of humanitarian cases.
2. Only legal representatives or authorized persons of visa applicants who are minors or judicially disabled can submit visa applications on their behalf. 
3. Visa applications for underage persons or persons with limited judicial disability shall be submitted by their legal representatives, trustees, or persons expressly authorized to do so.
4. While filling out the visa application form, all fields must be filled in legibly in typed letters. The names must be filled in with Latin letters (the way they are spelt in the foreign travel passport). The rest of the information must be filled in in English or Bulgarian. The applicant must sign the application personally.

Bulgaria Visa Processing Time for Indians

The Bulgaria visa processing time for Indians is typically 15-20 business days. You must apply well in advance to avoid any overlap.

Type of Visa	Processing Time
Schengen Short-Term Tourist Visa	15 to 45 working days

Bulgaria Stay Duration, Validity, and Extension

The validity of a Bulgaria visa for Indians is 180 days, but Indians can stay for a maximum period of 90 days. The visa is usually valid for the specific travel dates mentioned in your application, with some flexibility.

Category	Validity	Stay Period	Extension
Schengen Short-Term Tourist Visa (Single Entry)	Up to 90 days within 180 days	Up to 90 days	Not usually extendable
Schengen Short-Term Tourist Visa (Multiple Entry)	Up to 90 days within 180 days	Up to 90 days	Not usually extendable

Generally, the Bulgarian short-stay visa cannot be extended beyond the duration of the stay. 

Top Mistakes while Applying for a Bulgaria Visa

Avoiding these common mistakes can significantly improve your chances of obtaining a Bulgaria visa. 

1. Providing insufficient financial documentation: Applicants often underestimate the importance of demonstrating strong financial capacity, presenting bank statements with insufficient balances or recently deposited lump sums that raise suspicions about the authenticity of their financial situation.
2. Overlooking passport validity requirements: A common oversight is applying with a passport that has less than six months’ validity beyond the intended return date.
3. Neglecting proper travel insurance coverage: Many applicants purchase inadequate insurance policies that fail to meet the minimum €30,000 coverage requirement or don’t cover all Schengen countries.
4. Missing essential supporting documents: Applicants frequently forget to include crucial documents such as proof of accommodation, detailed day-by-day itineraries, or employment verification, weakening their case for visa approval.
5. Presenting an inconsistent or unrealistic travel itinerary: Consular officers quickly identify and reject applications with contradictory travel plans, impossible logistics, or itineraries that don’t match financial capacity.

Suggested Read: Bulgaria Visa Appeal for Indians

Bulgaria Visa Consulates/Embassy in India

There are two official Bulgarian diplomatic missions in India –

Embassy of Bulgaria in New Delhi

• Name: Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in New Delhi
• City: New Delhi
• Address: 16/17 Chandragupta Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi – 110021
• Phone: +91 11 2611 5550
• Email: [email protected], [email protected]
• Business Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 to 18:00
• Website:https://www.mfa.bg/embassies/india

Honorary Consulate of Bulgaria in Mumbai

• Name: Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Bulgaria in Mumbai
• City: Mumbai
• Address: 6th Floor, ‘A’ Block, Shivsagar Estate, Dr. Annie Besant Road, Worli, Mumbai – 400 018
• Phone: 022 – 66619000
• Email: [email protected]

You can find information of the various visa application centres in India here.

Top Reasons to Visit Bulgaria

• Climate & Seasons

Bulgaria offers a wonderfully diverse climate with four distinct seasons, allowing travelers to experience Mediterranean summers along the Black Sea coast with temperatures reaching 30°C, perfect for beach holidays, while winter transforms the mountainous regions like Bansko and Borovets into world-class ski destinations with reliable snowfall from December through March.

• Rich Culture

Bulgaria’s cultural landscape is a fascinating tapestry woven from 8,000 years of history. Ancient Thracian ruins stand alongside Ottoman mosques and Soviet-era monuments, while traditional Bulgarian music utilizing unique asymmetrical rhythms, colorful folk costumes, and authentic village traditions continue to thrive in rural communities and cultural festivals.

• Stunning Attractions

From the UNESCO-protected Rila Monastery with its vibrant frescoes to the surreal rock formations of Belogradchik, Bulgaria captivates visitors with its natural and architectural wonders. These include the ancient city of Plovdiv with Roman amphitheaters, the picturesque town of Veliko Tarnovo perched dramatically on steep hills, and the pristine beaches along the 378 km Black Sea coastline.

• Affordable Activities

Indian travelers will be delighted by the range of experiences available at budget-friendly prices, from wine tasting tours in the Thracian Valley starting at just €15 (₹1,350) to entrance to most museums and historical sites typically costing under €5 (₹450). Guided hiking excursions through spectacular mountain terrain cost €20-30 (₹1,800-2,700), and full-day spa treatments utilizing famous Bulgarian rose products cost €40-50 (₹3,600-4,500).

• Cost-Effective Travel

Compared to Western European destinations, Bulgaria offers exceptional value for Indian tourists, with daily expenses approximately 40-60% lower. Here’s a breakdown to help you estimate!

Estimated Costs for Indian Tourists

Category	Cost in EUR	Cost in INR
Accommodation (Budget)	€20-40/nigh	₹1,800-3,600
Meals	€10-15/day	₹900-1,350
Local Transportation	€5-10/day	₹450-900
Tourist Activities	€10-30/activity	₹900-2,700

Why Choose OneVasco

OneVasco makes visa applications effortless. Our expert team manages the entire process, allowing you to focus on your journey.

Enjoy stress-free travel with fast visa approvals.

• Expert and Personalized Support
• Efficient and Hassle-Free Process
• Real-Time Tracking and Updates
• Transparent Communication
• Trusted by Millions

FAQs

1. Do Indians need a visa for Bulgaria?

Yes, Indian citizens require a Schengen visa to enter Bulgaria as the country became part of the Schengen Area in January, 2025, making a Schengen visa mandatory for all Indian passport holders planning to visit.

2. Is there a visa on arrival for Indians in Bulgaria?

No, there is no visa on arrival facility available for Indian citizens traveling to Bulgaria, and all visa applications must be submitted and approved before beginning your journey to avoid being denied entry.

3. Is Bulgaria visa easy to get for Indians? 

With proper documentation, sufficient financial proof, a clear travel purpose, and advance planning, obtaining a Bulgaria visa is generally straightforward for Indian applicants who meet all eligibility criteria and follow application guidelines carefully.

4. What are the Bulgaria visa fees for Indians?

The standard fee for a Schengen visa application to Bulgaria is €90 (approximately ₹8,550). There are no visa fees for children between the ages of 6 to 12 and below.

5. What is the eligibility for a Bulgaria visa for Indians?

Eligible applicants must possess a valid passport with adequate remaining validity, demonstrate sufficient financial means to support their stay, provide proof of accommodation and return transportation, hold comprehensive travel insurance, and present a clear purpose for visiting Bulgaria.

6. What are the general requirements for a Bulgaria visa for Indians?

General requirements include a properly completed Schengen visa application form, recent passport-sized photographs meeting specific dimensions, a valid passport with sufficient validity and blank pages, proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, financial documentation, and travel medical insurance coverage.

7. What documents are needed for a Bulgaria visa for Indians?

Required documents include your original passport with photocopies, a completed and signed application form, recent photographs, flight reservations, hotel bookings, comprehensive bank statements from the past six months, employment verification, income tax returns, travel insurance certificate, and a detailed day-by-day itinerary of your planned activities in Bulgaria.

8. Are children eligible to apply for a Bulgaria visa?

Yes, children of all ages require their own individual Schengen visa to visit Bulgaria, with additional documentation including birth certificates, consent letters from both parents or legal guardians if traveling with one parent or a third party, and proof of the parents’ financial status.

9. What’s the process for obtaining a Bulgaria visa for Indians?

The process involves completing the online application form, gathering all required documentation, scheduling an appointment at the Bulgarian Embassy or Consulate, attending the interview with your complete application package, submitting biometric data if required, paying the visa fee, and waiting for processing before collecting your passport with the visa decision.

10. How much bank balance is required for a Bulgaria tourist visa?

While there’s no fixed minimum balance requirement, applicants should generally demonstrate approximately €50-€100 (₹4,500-₹9,000) per day of their planned stay, with the total amount dependent on your accommodation type, itinerary, and overall trip duration to prove sufficient funds for your entire visit.

11. How long does a Bulgaria tourist visa take to process?

Standard processing for a Bulgaria visa for Indians typically takes 15-20 business days from the date of submission, though this can extend to 30 days during peak tourist seasons (summer and December holidays).