Bulgaria Visa RequirementsFor India passport holders
Bulgaria joined the Schengen zone in January 2024. Indian passport holders now need a Schengen visa to visit Bulgaria, applied for through the Bulgarian Embassy or VFS Global Bulgaria in India.
India passport holders require a visa to enter Bulgaria.
Apply through VFS Global Bulgaria or the Bulgarian Embassy in New Delhi. Required documents include a completed Schengen application form, valid passport (3 months validity beyond stay), two recent passport photos, confirmed flight and accommodation bookings, travel insurance (minimum 30,000 EUR coverage), bank statements for 3 months, and employment verification. Biometric enrollment in person is mandatory. The fee is approximately 60 euros (VFS service charges apply). Processing time is 15 working days.
Bulgaria 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 โ
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
Current Travel Situation
India to Bulgaria: What You Need to Know
Bulgaria became a full Schengen member in January 2024, meaning Indian nationals now require a standard Schengen Type C visa for entry. The visa allows up to 90 days within any 180-day period across all Schengen countries. If Bulgaria is your primary destination, apply through the Bulgarian Embassy in New Delhi or via VFS Global Bulgaria.
Practical Tips
Bulgaria is one of Europe's most affordable destinations, combining Black Sea beaches (Sunny Beach, Sozopol), Thracian history, mountain skiing (Bansko, Borovets), and vibrant cities (Sofia, Plovdiv). Sofia is 4 to 5 hours by road from both Greece and North Macedonia. The Bulgarian lev (BGN) is pegged to the euro (1 EUR = 1.96 BGN), but Bulgaria has not yet adopted the euro. Flights connect via Istanbul, Vienna, Frankfurt, or directly from Delhi (Air India, Wizz Air codeshares).
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Bulgaria join the Schengen zone and does this affect Indian travelers?
Yes. Bulgaria became a full Schengen member in January 2024, meaning Indian nationals now need a Schengen visa to visit Bulgaria. Previously, Indians needed a separate Bulgarian visa. The fee is approximately 60 euros, and the standard Schengen rules (90 days in 180) apply.
Where do Indians apply for a Bulgaria Schengen visa?
Apply through VFS Global Bulgaria, with offices in major Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru. Biometric data collection in person is mandatory. You can also apply directly at the Bulgarian Embassy in New Delhi.
Has Bulgaria adopted the euro as its currency?
No. Despite being a Schengen member since January 2024, Bulgaria has not yet adopted the euro. The Bulgarian lev (BGN) remains the currency, pegged at 1.96 BGN to 1 EUR. Bulgaria is one of the most affordable countries in the EU, making it excellent value for Indian travelers.
What are the best things to do in Bulgaria for Indian tourists?
Sofia (Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, National Palace of Culture, vibrant restaurant scene), Plovdiv (Roman amphitheater, Old Town, European Capital of Culture 2019), Rila Monastery (UNESCO site), Bansko (ski resort and old town), and the Black Sea coast (Varna, Nesebar ancient city). Bulgaria is 3 to 4 times cheaper than Western Europe for accommodation and dining.