Do I need an ETIAS for Bulgaria?
Bulgaria, with its Black Sea coast and the capital Sofia, is one of the newest members of the Schengen Area. From late 2026, visa-exempt travelers will need an approved ETIAS before short visits.
Key facts
Validity
Up to 3 years or until your passport expires
Stay
Up to 90 days within any 180-day period
Coverage
Multiple entries across the Schengen Area
Price
€35 all-inclusive (€20 official + €15 service)
How it works
Tell us about your trip
Confirm your nationality, destination, dates, and purpose using the checker above.
We prepare your application
Our team completes the official ETIAS form accurately, with your own email on file as required.
We submit at launch
The moment the official ETIAS system opens, we submit on your behalf and track the outcome.
You receive your authorisation
Approval is linked electronically to your passport — usually within minutes of submission, occasionally longer if extra checks apply.
Main entry points
- Sofia (SOF)
- Burgas (BOJ)
- Varna (VAR)
Peak season
Summer for the coast and winter for the ski resorts — apply well in advance.
Popular with visitors
Sofia · Plovdiv · Varna · Burgas
Good to know
Now that Bulgaria is part of Schengen, the same ETIAS that covers the rest of the area applies here too. Need a long-stay Bulgarian visa instead? HelpMyVisa can help.
Frequently asked questions
Is Bulgaria in the Schengen Area?
Yes — Bulgaria is a Schengen member, so ETIAS rules apply to short stays there.
Is ETIAS a Bulgarian visa?
No — it's a travel authorisation for visa-exempt nationals on short stays.
How long can I stay?
Up to 90 days within any 180-day period across the Schengen Area.
What's the total cost?
€35 all-inclusive (€20 official + €15 service), refundable before submission.