Patriarchal Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky in Sofia, Bulgaria

Traveling to Bulgaria in 2025? You might need the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), especially if you’re a British citizen.

The ETIAS program ensures travelers from visa-exempt countries, like the UK, are vetted before entering the Schengen Area. Although Bulgaria has joined Schengen partially, an ETIAS travel authorization is still required for entry.

To understand how ETIAS in Bulgaria for British citizens works, read on to find out more about applying, what documents are needed, and what to do if your application is denied.

A table showing Bulgaria's flag as well as information about Bulgaria and its British Embassy in the country

Do I need an ETIAS when traveling to Bulgaria?

Yes, you need an ETIAS to travel to Bulgaria.

The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is an authorization for travelers from visa-exempt countries, like the UK, who want to visit Europe.

It is set up by the European Union (EU) to make sure everyone entering the Schengen Area, which includes most EU countries, is checked out beforehand. ETIAS will be launching in mid-2025.

Even though Bulgaria has partially entered the Schengen Area at the end of March 2024, you will still need to get an ETIAS to visit there. If you plan to travel to other countries in the Schengen Area on the same trip, you will need an ETIAS for them too.

I am a UK citizen who also holds a Bulgarian passport. Do I need an ETIAS?

No, you do not need an ETIAS if you hold a Bulgarian passport.

As a Bulgarian passport holder, being a citizen of the EU means you can travel within the Schengen Zone without needing an ETIAS.

How do I apply for an ETIAS to travel to Bulgaria?

To apply for an ETIAS travel authorization, British citizens need to do the following:

  1. Fill out the ETIAS application form online.
  2. Answer questions about your itinerary, medical history, and criminal record, if any.
  3. Pay the €7 processing fee. Applicants under 18 and above 70 years old are exempted from this requirement.
  4. Submit your application and wait for up to 96 hours. The ETIAS travel authorization will be sent to your email.
  5. If your application is denied or if you’re required to submit additional documents, you will receive an email detailing the next steps.

I am traveling to other European countries aside from Bulgaria. Will I need to apply for an ETIAS for each visit?

No, you do not need to apply for an ETIAS for each EU country you visit. You only need to apply once.

I will only be in Bulgaria for a layover. Do I need to apply for an ETIAS?

You do not need an ETIAS if you are in Bulgaria for a layover. However, if you plan to step out of the transit zone and enter Bulgaria, you will need to apply for an ETIAS.

How long can I stay in Bulgaria with an ETIAS?

You can stay in Bulgaria with an ETIAS for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This rule applies if you are going there as a tourist, for business meetings, events, short courses, or training.

If you have visited other Schengen countries within 180 days before going to Bulgaria, those days will count toward your 90-day limit. Make sure your entire stay in the Schengen Area does not exceed 90 days.

Will I need an ETIAS if I want to stay longer in Bulgaria?

No, you do not need an ETIAS to stay longer in Bulgaria.

If you plan to stay longer, like for work, study, or other reasons, you need to meet Bulgaria’s entry requirements. Contact the Bulgarian Embassy to figure out the type of visa or work permit you will need.

If you have a residence permit or a long-stay visa for Bulgaria, the days you spend there will not count toward your 90-day visa-free limit.

Aside from an ETIAS travel authorization, what other documents do I need to enter Bulgaria?

Passport

To visit Bulgaria (and all Schengen countries), make sure your passport:

  1. Was issued within the last 10 years from the date of your arrival.
  2. Has an expiration date that is at least three months after your planned departure date.

Before you travel, confirm that your passport and other necessary documents meet these requirements. If needed, renew your passport.

Remember, you will not be allowed entry if you do not have a valid passport or if you try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Other Requirements at the Border

When you arrive at Bulgarian border control, you might need to show a few things:

  1. Proof of where you’ll be staying, like a hotel booking or proof of address if you’re staying somewhere else.
  2. Travel insurance.
  3. Ticket to leave Bulgaria.
  4. Proof that you have enough money for your trip.

I have my ETIAS travel authorization. How should I present it to border authorities in Bulgaria?

The ETIAS travel authorization is already linked to your passport. Simply show your passport and other requirements to the border authorities upon arrival in Bulgaria.

My ETIAS application for my Bulgaria trip has been denied. Can I appeal it?

Yes, you can appeal the denial of your ETIAS application.

ETIAS rejections come with explanations for why they were denied. If your application is rejected, it is a good idea to understand these reasons and plan your appeal accordingly.

I lost my passport while traveling in Bulgaria. Do I need to apply for an ETIAS again?

Yes, you need to apply for an ETIAS again if you lost your passport while in Bulgaria.

If you lost your passport during your time in Bulgaria, inform the nearby police and contact the embassy or consulate of your home country in Bulgaria.

Your ETIAS travel authorization is connected to your passport, so if you end up getting a new passport, you will also need to obtain a new ETIAS if you intend to visit countries in the Schengen Area.

My ETIAS travel authorization was revoked while I was traveling in Bulgaria. What should I do?

If your ETIAS is revoked, EU authorities will explain why and tell you how to appeal the decision. They are in charge of ETIAS permissions, so they will guide you through the process.

As you get ready for your trip to Bulgaria in mid-2025, make sure to equip yourself with the latest news and updates on ETIAS. If you’re planning to travel to other EU countries, check our country guides for each of their entry requirements.