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Bulgaria visas

Bulgaria transit visa

Most travellers can change flights at one Bulgarian airport without a visa if they stay in the international transit area for less than one day. Some nationalities need an airport transit visa.

Ways to get a Bulgaria transit visa

  1. Airport transfer without a visa

    Transit without a visa

    Travellers outside the airport transit visa list, and listed travellers who qualify for an exemption.

    Stay
    Less than one day at one airport.

Who needs it

Nationals of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, DR Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia and Sri Lanka need an airport transit visa unless exempt.

Who doesn't

Exemptions include holders of certain visas or residence permits, diplomatic passport holders, family members of EU single market citizens and flight crew.

Changing planes

Can you stay airside?
Yes, without a visa if you stay in the transit area
Leaving the airport
If you leave the international transit area, the airport transit exemption no longer applies. You must meet Bulgaria's entry rules.
Longest transit
24 hours
Transit without a visa
Stay for less than 24 hours at one airport. Your transfer must be possible without leaving the international transit area. Travellers on the airport transit visa list must also qualify for an exemption.

Good to know

  • Your connecting flights and the airport layout must allow you to remain in the international transit area.
  • Bulgaria adds no nationalities beyond the common airport transit visa list.
  • The 24-hour figure means less than 24 hours, not a full 24-hour stay.

Questions

Do I need a transit visa for Bulgaria?

Nationals of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, DR Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia and Sri Lanka need an airport transit visa unless exempt. Exemptions include holders of certain visas or residence permits, diplomatic passport holders, family members of EU single market citizens and flight crew.

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

There are 2 options: Airport transfer without a visa (transit without a visa); Airport transit visa (a visa from an embassy).

How long can I stay on a Bulgaria transit visa?

Transit without a visa: less than one day.

How long can I stay in transit in Bulgaria?

Up to 24 hours, if you meet the conditions. Stay for less than 24 hours at one airport. Your transfer must be possible without leaving the international transit area. Travellers on the airport transit visa list must also qualify for an exemption.

Can I stay inside the airport in Bulgaria without a visa?

Yes, staying in the international transit area is allowed for most travellers. To leave the airport: If you leave the international transit area, the airport transit exemption no longer applies. You must meet Bulgaria's entry rules.

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

Your connecting flights and the airport layout must allow you to remain in the international transit area.

Does my passport change whether I need a transit 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 transit 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 transit 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 transit 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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