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Bulgaria — Schengen Area Member

Bulgaria is one of the 30 Schengen Area member states.

Bulgaria is a full member of the Schengen Area. Whether you require ETIAS, a Schengen Visa, or nothing depends on your nationality. Once inside the Schengen Area, you can reach Bulgaria without border checks.

Capital
Sofia
Currency
BGN
Schengen
Yes
EU Member
true
Passport Rank
#32

Schengen Membership

Bulgaria is a full member of the Schengen Area, which allows passport-free travel between 30 European countries. Once you enter any Schengen country, you can travel to Bulgaria without additional border checks. Practical Info The Bulgaria passport ranks #32 globally, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 152

Capital
Sofia
Currency
BGN
Population
6400000
Exchange Rate

Check current rates before traveling

Bulgaria in the Schengen Area

  • Schengen Area
  • EU (non-Schengen)
  • Other European

Entry Requirements

  • EU/EEA citizens

    Move freely with passport or national ID. No visa or ETIAS needed.

  • Visa-exempt nationals (US, UK, Canada, and others)

    No visa needed for stays of up to 90 days. ETIAS required from Q4 2026 (€20).

  • Visa-required nationals

    Schengen Visa required (€80). Apply at embassy of your main destination.

Schengen Guides

Visit Bulgaria

Destination travel guide

Schengen Area Guide

All 30 member states

ETIAS Guide

New travel authorization

90/180 Calculator

Track your stay

Frequently Asked Questions about Bulgaria

Do I need a visa or ETIAS to visit Bulgaria?
It depends on your nationality. EU/EEA citizens travel freely. Citizens from 59 visa-exempt countries (US, UK, Canada, and others) will require ETIAS from Q4 2026 (€20). All other nationalities need a Schengen Visa (€80).
Is Bulgaria part of the Schengen Area?
Yes, Bulgaria is a full member of the Schengen Area. A single visa or ETIAS is valid for all 30 Schengen countries.
How long can I stay in Bulgaria?
EU citizens can stay indefinitely. Non-EU visitors can stay as long as 90 days within any 180-day period across all Schengen countries combined.
What currency does Bulgaria use?
Bulgaria uses BGN as its official currency. Exchange rates vary, so check current rates before your trip. Major cities accept cards widely, but carry some cash for smaller establishments.
How strong is the Bulgaria passport?
The Bulgaria passport ranks #32 globally, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 152 countries. As a Schengen member, Bulgaria's citizens can move without restrictions across all 30 Schengen states without any border checks.

Related Guides

Schengen Area Guide

90/180 Day Calculator

Travel Insurance

EES Entry/Exit System

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