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Bulgaria

Bulgaria visa and entry requirements for US, UK, Canadian, Australian, NZ and Irish citizens

US, UK, Canadian, Australian, New Zealand and Irish citizens can enter Bulgaria visa‑free for short stays; travel without a visa if the stay is 90 days or less within any 180‑day period, otherwise apply for a visa. Check for any changes before you travel.

Updated Sep 20263 min read
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Key facts

Visa‑free stay lengthcheck
90 days within any 180‑day period
Passport validitycheck
At least 3 months beyond intended departure
Electronic travel authorisationcheck
Not required for these nationals

Visa policy for the listed citizens

US, UK, Canadian, Australian, New Zealand and Irish passport holders do not need a visa to visit Bulgaria for tourism, business or family visits if the stay does not exceed 90 days in any rolling 180‑day window. This rule applies to the whole Schengen‑adjacent area of Bulgaria, which is not yet part of the Schengen zone but follows the same short‑stay limits.

If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, work, study or reside, you must apply for the appropriate long‑stay visa or residence permit at a Bulgarian consulate before travel.

All travellers must hold a passport that remains valid for at least three months after the intended departure date from Bulgaria.

  • Check your passport expiry date before booking.
  • If you have a residence permit or long‑stay visa for another EU country, it does not replace a Bulgarian visa for stays over 90 days.

Electronic travel authorisation (ETIAS)

Bulgaria does not participate in the EU ETIAS system as of 2026, so citizens of the listed countries do not need an ETIAS or similar electronic authorisation to fly to Bulgaria.

  • Only Schengen states require ETIAS; Bulgaria remains outside that system.

Entry requirements and checks

Border officials may ask for proof of onward travel or sufficient funds (approximately €50 per day) and a confirmed accommodation address.

Travel insurance covering medical expenses is strongly recommended but not mandatory for entry.

  • Carry a printed copy of your itinerary and accommodation confirmation.
  • Have a credit card or cash to demonstrate financial means if asked.

FAQ

Questions people ask

Do US, UK, Canadian, Australian, NZ and Irish citizens need a visa for Bulgaria?

No, they can enter visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This applies to tourism, business and family visits. Confirm the rule with your nearest Bulgarian consulate or your government's travel advice before booking, since entry rules can change.

How long can I stay in Bulgaria without a visa?

Up to 90 days in a rolling 180-day window. If you plan to stay longer, work, study or reside, you must apply for a long-stay visa or residence permit at a Bulgarian consulate before travel. Check the exact calculation with the authorities.

Do I need an electronic travel authorisation before flying to Bulgaria?

No, Bulgaria does not use ETIAS or a similar system for these nationals as of 2026. Only Schengen states require ETIAS. Still, verify with your airline or the Bulgarian authorities before departure, as systems can change.

What passport validity is required for Bulgaria?

Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date from Bulgaria. Check your passport expiry before booking flights. Confirm the exact requirement with your government's travel advice or the Bulgarian embassy.

Can I enter Bulgaria with a Schengen visa or residence permit?

A Schengen visa or residence permit does not replace a Bulgarian visa for stays over 90 days. For short stays, visa-free rules apply to the listed nationals. If you hold a different nationality, check with the Bulgarian authorities before travel.

What documents should I carry when entering Bulgaria?

Border officials may ask for proof of onward travel, sufficient funds (approximately €50 per day) and a confirmed accommodation address. Carry printed copies of your itinerary and accommodation confirmation. Travel insurance is strongly recommended but not mandatory.

Verify with the official source

Draft, not field-verified

Rules, fees, schedules and prices change. Verify with the official source (the government, embassy, operator or venue) before you book or travel.

Ask about Bulgaria

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