Canada Visa RequirementsFor Bulgaria passport holders
Bulgarian passport holders must obtain a Canadian Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before flying to Canada. The eTA costs CAD 7, is applied for online, and is usually approved within minutes.
Bulgaria passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to Canada.
Apply for the eTA at canada.ca/eta before booking your flight. The fee is CAD 7 (approximately EUR 5). Most applications are approved within minutes, but some may take a few days if additional documents are requested. Link the eTA to your passport. You must use the same passport when traveling. The eTA allows stays of up to 6 months per visit.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
For Your Visa Application
Valid Bulgarian Passport
Must be valid for the duration of stay; eTA is linked to this passport.
Required at Entry
eTA Approval Confirmation
Electronic approval; print or save confirmation. Border officers verify electronically.
Return or Onward Ticket
Proof of departure from Canada before eTA expiry.
Proof of Sufficient Funds
Bank statements or credit card showing ability to support stay in Canada.
Accommodation Details Recommended
Hotel bookings or address of host in Canada.
Current Travel Situation
Bulgaria to Canada: What You Need to Know
Bulgaria is an EU member state. Canada requires an eTA from visa-exempt nationals arriving by air, and Bulgarian citizens fall into this category. The eTA is not required when crossing by land from the USA or arriving by sea. It is valid for 5 years or until passport expiry and allows multiple entries. Canada is one of the most popular long-haul destinations for Bulgarian travelers visiting family or as tourists.
How to Get There
Flights from Sofia to Canada typically involve one connection in a major European hub. Air Canada via London or Frankfurt is a common option. Total travel time is around 14-18 hours. Fares are generally lower in shoulder seasons (spring and autumn).
Money & Banking
Bulgaria uses the Lev (BGN). Canada uses the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Notify your bank before travel. ATMs and cards are widely accepted throughout Canada. Avoid exchanging currency at airport kiosks, which offer poor rates.
Practical Tips
Air Canada, WestJet, and major European carriers connect Sofia to Toronto (YYZ) or Montreal (YUL) via European hubs such as London, Paris, Frankfurt, or Amsterdam. Direct flights from Eastern Europe to Canada are available seasonally from Warsaw and Prague, which may be combined with a train or bus leg from Sofia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Bulgarian citizens need a visa for Canada?
No traditional visa is required. Bulgarian citizens must obtain a Canadian Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before flying to Canada. It is not required for land or sea crossings.
How much does the Canadian eTA cost for Bulgarian citizens?
The Canadian eTA costs CAD 7 (approximately EUR 5). This is a one-time fee per eTA application, which is valid for 5 years or until passport expiry.
How do I apply for the Canadian eTA?
Apply online at the official Canadian government website: canada.ca/eta. You need a valid passport, credit/debit card for the CAD 7 fee, and an email address.
How long does the Canadian eTA take to be approved?
Most eTA applications are approved within minutes. However, some applications may require additional processing and could take a few days. Apply before booking flights.
How long can Bulgarians stay in Canada with an eTA?
The eTA allows stays of up to 6 months per visit. The border officer determines the exact length of stay upon entry.
Is the Canadian eTA required for land border crossings from the USA?
No. The eTA is only required for travel to Canada by air. Arriving by land from the USA or by sea does not require an eTA for Bulgarian citizens.
Can I work in Canada on an eTA?
No. The eTA is for tourism and short-term visits only. Working in Canada requires a separate work permit.
Are there direct flights from Bulgaria to Canada?
No direct flights operate from Bulgaria to Canada. Common connections are through London, Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, or other European hubs. Travel time is approximately 14-18 hours total.