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3 ways to enter

Bulgaria visas

Bulgaria family visa

Some family members of EU single market citizens can enter Bulgaria without a visa using a qualifying residence card. Longer residence generally needs separate permission.

Ways to get a Bulgaria family visa

  1. Visa-free entry with a family residence card

    No visa needed

    Family members of any nationality with the required travel document and residence card, subject to the accompanying or joining rule.

    Stay
    Up to three months.

  2. Family member visa at the border

    Visa on arrival

    In principle, family members of EU single market citizens who do not meet the residence card exemption can seek a visa at the border by proving the family relationship.

  3. Long-stay visa or residence permit

    Other permit

    Nationals from outside the EU single market who generally need permission to stay longer than 90 days.

    Stay
    Generally a long-stay visa for stays of less than a year, or a residence permit for longer periods.

Who needs it

Family members who do not meet an exemption may need a visa. Nationals from outside the EU single market generally need long-stay permission to stay over 90 days.

Who doesn't

Family members with a valid travel document and a qualifying residence card can enter without a visa when accompanying or joining their EU single market family member. A qualifying card issued by a Schengen country also allows independent travel.

What to bring

  • A valid travel document.
  • A residence card showing that you are a family member of an EU single market citizen.

Good to know

  • Accompany or join your family member unless your qualifying residence card was issued by a Schengen country.
  • The EU single market includes EU countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.
  • Detailed Bulgarian spouse, dependant and residence application rules are not specified.

Questions

Do I need a family visa for Bulgaria?

Family members who do not meet an exemption may need a visa. Nationals from outside the EU single market generally need long-stay permission to stay over 90 days. Family members with a valid travel document and a qualifying residence card can enter without a visa when accompanying or joining their EU single market family member. A qualifying card issued by a Schengen country also allows independent travel.

What are the ways to get a family visa for Bulgaria?

There are 3 options: Visa-free entry with a family residence card (no visa at all); Family member visa at the border (a visa at the border); Long-stay visa or residence permit (a special permit).

Who can go to Bulgaria without a family visa?

Family members of any nationality with the required travel document and residence card, subject to the accompanying or joining rule.

How long can I stay on a Bulgaria family visa?

Up to three months under the family residence card exemption.

What documents do I need for a Bulgaria family visa?

A valid travel document.; A residence card showing that you are a family member of an EU single market citizen..

What rules do I have to follow on a Bulgaria family visa?

Accompany or join your family member unless your qualifying residence card was issued by a Schengen country.

Does my passport change whether I need a family visa for Bulgaria?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Bulgaria visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a family visa for Bulgaria be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest Bulgaria family visa rules?

On Bulgaria's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my family visa once I am in Bulgaria?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

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