Croatia Visa RequirementsFor Bulgaria passport holders
Bulgarian and Croatian citizens both enjoy EU free movement rights. No visa is needed for any length of stay as an EU citizen, though registration is required beyond 90 days.
Great news! Bulgaria passport holders can enter Croatia without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 90 days.
No visa is required. Carry a valid Bulgarian passport or national ID card. Croatia is a very popular destination for Bulgarians, particularly the Dalmatian Coast (Dubrovnik, Split, Hvar). For road trips, the route passes through Serbia or through Slovenia and Austria.
Croatia is part of the Schengen Area. Your stay counts toward the 90-day limit within any 180-day period for the entire Schengen zone. Learn more about Schengen rules →
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
3 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
Valid Bulgarian Passport or National ID Card
Either is accepted for entry into Croatia as an EU citizen.
European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) Recommended
Provides access to state healthcare in Croatia; issued free by Bulgarian National Health Insurance Fund.
Vehicle Green Card Insurance Recommended
Required if traveling to Croatia by personal vehicle; confirms valid third-party liability insurance.
Current Travel Situation
Bulgaria to Croatia: What You Need to Know
Both Bulgaria and Croatia are EU member states. Croatia joined the Schengen zone and adopted the Euro in January 2023, making border crossings from other Schengen countries seamless. Bulgaria completed its full Schengen accession with land borders joining in January 2025. Bulgarian citizens can travel to Croatia freely using their passport or national ID card.
How to Get There
By road from Sofia, the most common route is through Nis, Belgrade, Bosnia (Sarajevo area), and into Croatia. The Adriatic Highway along the Croatian coast offers spectacular scenery. Ferry connections are available between Split and Italian cities.
Money & Banking
Bulgaria uses the Lev (BGN). Croatia uses the Euro (EUR) since January 2023. Cards are widely accepted across Croatia. Notify your bank before travel.
Practical Tips
Direct flights from Sofia to Split (SPU), Dubrovnik (DBV), and Zagreb (ZAG) are available seasonally. Wizz Air operates multiple Croatian routes from Sofia. Summer is peak season with the most flight options. Driving is also popular: Sofia to Dubrovnik is approximately 9-10 hours via Serbia and Bosnia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Bulgarian citizens need a visa for Croatia?
No. Both Bulgaria and Croatia are EU member states. Bulgarian citizens can travel to Croatia visa-free using a passport or national ID card.
Is Croatia in the Schengen zone?
Yes. Croatia joined the Schengen zone in January 2023. Bulgaria completed its full Schengen accession with land borders in January 2025.
What currency does Croatia use?
Croatia adopted the Euro (EUR) in January 2023. Bulgarian Lev (BGN) must be exchanged before or upon arrival.
Are there direct flights from Bulgaria to Croatia?
Yes. Wizz Air and other airlines operate seasonal direct flights from Sofia to Split, Dubrovnik, and Zagreb. Flights are most frequent in summer.
Can I drive from Bulgaria to Croatia?
Yes. The road trip from Sofia to the Croatian coast is approximately 9-10 hours via Serbia and Bosnia. Green card vehicle insurance is required.
Do I need travel insurance for Croatia?
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) issued by Bulgarian health authorities covers medical emergencies in Croatia as an EU country. Additional travel insurance is recommended.
What are the most popular Croatian destinations for Bulgarians?
Dubrovnik, Split, Hvar, Rovinj, and Zadar are top choices. The Plitvice Lakes National Park is also very popular.