Duration: Allows stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period for visa-exempt countries, including the U.S.
Freelance (Digital Nomad) Visa:
Duration: Issued as a Type D long-stay visa, valid for up to 12 months, with the possibility of renewal.
Visa cost
Tourist Visa:
Fee: Not applicable for U.S. citizens for stays up to 90 days.
Freelance (Digital Nomad) Visa:
Application Fee: Varies; applicants should consult the nearest Bulgarian consulate or embassy for specific fee information.
Visa extension
Tourist Visa:
Extension: Extensions beyond the 90-day visa-free period are generally not permitted. Travelers wishing to stay longer should apply for the appropriate long-stay visa.
Freelance (Digital Nomad) Visa:
Extension: Yes, holders can apply for renewal before the initial period expires.
Visa processing time
Tourist Visa:
Not applicable for U.S. citizens for stays up to 90 days.
Freelance (Digital Nomad) Visa:
Processing Time: Approximately 10 to 60 days, depending on individual circumstances and the completeness of the application.
Who can apply?
Tourist Visa:
Eligibility: Nationals from visa-exempt countries, including the U.S., for short-term tourism or business visits.
Freelance (Digital Nomad) Visa:
Eligibility: Non-EU citizens who are self-employed or freelancers intending to work remotely from Bulgaria.
Where to apply?
Tourist Visa:
Application Process: Not required for U.S. citizens for stays up to 90 days.
Freelance (Digital Nomad) Visa:
Application Portal: Applicants should contact the nearest Bulgarian consulate or embassy to initiate the application process.
How to apply:
Determine the Appropriate Visa Type: Assess whether you need a Tourist Visa or qualify for the Freelance (Digital Nomad) Visa.
Review Eligibility Criteria: Ensure you meet all requirements for the chosen visa category.
Gather Required Documents:
Tourist Visa: Not applicable for U.S. citizens for stays up to 90 days.
Freelance (Digital Nomad) Visa:
Valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining.
Completed visa application form.
Recent passport-sized photograph.
Proof of freelance activity (e.g., contracts, portfolio).
Proof of sufficient financial means (e.g., bank statements).
Proof of health insurance valid in Bulgaria.
Proof of accommodation in Bulgaria.
Clean criminal record certificate.
Complete the Application Form: Available online or at the consulate/embassy.
Pay the Application Fee: Fees vary based on visa type; payments are typically made online or at the consulate/embassy.
Submit the Application: Provide all required documents and submit the completed form.
Await Processing: Processing times vary; applicants will be notified via email or mail of the decision.
Receive Your Visa: Approved applicants will receive a visa document or approval letter to present upon arrival.
Minimum income requirements
Tourist Visa:
Not specified for U.S. citizens for stays up to 90 days.
Freelance (Digital Nomad) Visa:
Applicants must demonstrate sufficient funds to support their stay in Bulgaria, typically at least the minimum monthly wage or pension according to Bulgarian law.
Popular cities
Sofia: The capital city, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and economic significance.
Plovdiv: One of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe, celebrated for its ancient Roman architecture and lively arts scene.
Varna: A major port city on the Black Sea, famous for its beaches and maritime heritage.
Minimum income requirements
Official Language: Bulgarian.
Other Languages: English is widely spoken, especially in urban areas and among younger populations.
Average internet speeds
Fixed Broadband: Bulgaria offers high-speed internet with average download speeds exceeding 50 Mbps.
Mobile Internet: Mobile networks provide extensive coverage with 4G LTE services, offering average download speeds around 30 Mbps.
