How Indian passport holders get a visa for Bulgaria: visa type, government fee, processing time, maximum stay, the documents required and where to apply. Government-sourced — always verify on the official site before you travel.
Quick facts
- Visa type: Schengen visa — apply at VFS / embassy before travel
- Government fee: €90 (approx ₹8,200) Schengen fee; VFS service charge approx ₹2,000
- Processing time: 15 calendar days standard; up to 45 days in complex cases
- Maximum stay: Up to 90 days within any 180-day period (Schengen-wide)
- Interview: Not required
- Ease for Indian travellers: 42/100
Documents you'll need
- Passport valid 3+ months beyond return, issued in last 10 years, 2 blank pages
- Completed Schengen visa form
- Recent biometric photo (35×45 mm)
- Confirmed flight booking and hotel reservations
- Bank statements (last 6 months) and ITR (2 years)
- Travel medical insurance (min €30,000 Schengen-wide)
- Cover letter and detailed itinerary
How & where to apply
Bulgaria became a full Schengen member on 1 Jan 2025 (air/sea since 31 Mar 2024). Indians can use a valid multi-entry Schengen visa OR apply for a Bulgarian short-stay (C) Schengen visa at VFS Global India. Bulgaria Visa Application Centre — India (VFS)
Transit & connections
Now part of Schengen — no separate transit visa for Indians holding a valid Schengen visa.
Good to know
Joined Schengen air/sea on 31 Mar 2024 and land borders on 1 Jan 2025. A valid multi-entry Schengen visa now allows entry without a separate Bulgarian visa. Visa rules change often — confirm on the official government source: https://www.indembsofia.gov.in/page/information-about-visas-for-bulgaria/
Frequently asked questions
Do Indians need a visa for Bulgaria?
Schengen visa — apply at VFS / embassy before travel. Joined Schengen air/sea on 31 Mar 2024 and land borders on 1 Jan 2025. A valid multi-entry Schengen visa now allows entry without a separate Bulgarian visa.
What documents do Indians need for a Bulgaria visa?
Passport valid 3+ months beyond return, issued in last 10 years, 2 blank pages; Completed Schengen visa form; Recent biometric photo (35×45 mm); Confirmed flight booking and hotel reservations; Bank statements (last 6 months) and ITR (2 years); Travel medical insurance (min €30,000 Schengen-wide); Cover letter and detailed itinerary
How long does a Bulgaria visa take and what does it cost?
Processing: 15 calendar days standard; up to 45 days in complex cases. Government fee: €90 (approx ₹8,200) Schengen fee; VFS service charge approx ₹2,000. Maximum stay: Up to 90 days within any 180-day period (Schengen-wide).
How do Indians apply for a Bulgaria visa?
Bulgaria became a full Schengen member on 1 Jan 2025 (air/sea since 31 Mar 2024). Indians can use a valid multi-entry Schengen visa OR apply for a Bulgarian short-stay (C) Schengen visa at VFS Global India. Official source: https://www.indembsofia.gov.in/page/information-about-visas-for-bulgaria/