travel to usa with bulgarian passport

Travel Erudition

Can bulgarian citizens travel to usa without visa?

Yes, Bulgarian citizens are able to travel to the United States without a visa for stays of 90 days or less.Bulgaria is a participant in the Visa Waiver Program, which allows its citizens to travel to the US for business or tourism purposes without obtaining a visa. To be eligible for the program, Bulgarian citizens must have a valid passport, a machine-readable passport, and a return ticket to Bulgaria.

No, Bulgarian citizens are not currently eligible for visa-free travel to the United States.

Where Bulgarians can travel without visa?

The European Union has a visa-free travel agreement with several countries around the world. This means that citizens of these countries can travel to any member state of the EU without a visa. Some of the countries included in this agreement are Bulgaria, Austria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, and more.

Bulgaria is not currently a member of the Visa Waiver Program, however, the United States government is continually evaluating the economic and political environment of all Visa Waiver Program member countries. If the conditions in Bulgaria improve, the country may become eligible for the program in the future.

Who can enter the US without a visa

If you are a national of Canada, Israel, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Palau, or a country in the US Visa Waiver Program (excluding Croatia and Poland), you may visit for up to 30 days without an entry permit.

Only present documents that are accurate and true. Do not try to mislead or deceive the visa officer with false information or documents.

How powerful is Bulgarian passport?

The Bulgarian passport is ranked 10th in the Global Passport Power Rank 2021. This means that Bulgarian citizens can travel to visa-free or visa-on-arrival to 172 countries. The top 10 countries in the Global Passport Power Rank 2021 are:

1. United Arab Emirates 2. Japan 3. Singapore 4. China 5. Germany 6. South Korea 7. Italy 8. Finland 9. Spain 10. Bulgaria

The Bulgarian passport ranks 18th overall in terms of travel freedom according to the Henley & Partners Passport Index. Bulgarian citizens had visa-free or visa on arrival access to 174 countries and territories as of January 1, 2023.

Do Bulgarians need visa for Canada?

Bulgaria is one of the fortunate countries that does not require a visa to enter countries such as Canada. This is a great benefit for Bulgarian citizens as it allows for easier travel to these countries.

The holders of a Bulgarian D visa and residence permit can reside legally in Croatia, Cyprus, Romania and Serbia for 90 days in any 180 days period visa free. You receive a Bulgarian ID card for non-EU nationals that allows multiple entries and stay in Bulgaria.

Do Bulgarians need visa for Mexico

The Mexican Tourist Card is a document that is required for entry into Mexico for citizens of Bulgaria. The Tourist Card is not a visa, but it is still required in order to enter Mexico smoothly. You can obtain the Tourist Card through an online process offered by iVisacom. The online platform is user-friendly and will make the process of getting your Tourist Card easy and hassle-free.

No, EU citizens do not need a US visa. Citizens of the European Union are able to travel to the US without a visa. The only exceptions are Bulgaria, Romania, Cyprus, and Croatia.

How long can a foreign person stay in the US without a visa?

The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) is a program that enables citizens or nationals of participating countries* to travel to the United States for tourism or business for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa.

*Participating countries are those that have been designated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security as being high-risk, but that have also met certain security criteria.

An invitation letter is not mandatory to visit the United States, but it can smooth the entire process. An invitation letter can help demonstrate to the Customs and Border Protection officer that you are properly documented and have a legitimate reason for traveling.

Can I get US visa in 2 days

It is important to note that the time it takes to process a visa can vary depending on the country you are applying from. Typically, the visa is processed within 2-3 days and your passport can either be collected from the VAC centre or couriered to you. However, it is always best to check with the VAC centre to find out how long it will take to process your specific visa.

The amount of bank balance you should have for applying to the US tourist visa depends on the duration If it is a 15-day trip, you must have $ 5,000-10,000 in your bank. This is because the US Embassy will want to see that you have the financial means to support yourself during your stay.

What is the fastest way to get a US visa?

If you are traveling and need a visa quickly, it is best to apply early to avoid any problems. If you are unable to apply early, you can try to expedite the visa directly at the consulate or through an expediting service.

There are many reasons why a country might be difficult to get citizenship in. In some cases, it may be due to the country’s economic or political stability. In others, it may be due to the country’s geographical location. Whatever the reason, the following countries are considered to be the 17 hardest countries to get citizenship in.

#1 Qatar – Qatar is a small country located in the Middle East. It is one of the richest countries in the world, due to its large reserves of oil and gas. Qatar is also one of the most difficult countries to get citizenship in. There are only a few thousand Qatari citizens, and most of them are members of the ruling family.

#2 Vatican City – Vatican City is the smallest country in the world, and is located within the city of Rome. Vatican City is the headquarters of the Catholic Church, and as such, citizenship is restricted to Catholics. There are only a few hundred citizens of Vatican City.

#3 Liechtenstein – Liechtenstein is a small country located in Europe. It is one of the richest countries in the world, due to its favourable tax laws. Liechtenstein is also one of the hardest countries to get citizenship in. There are only

No, Bulgarian citizens cannot travel to the United States without a visa.

There is no definitive answer to this question, as the requirements for Bulgarian citizens to travel to the United States can vary depending on the individual circumstances. However, it is generally advisable to check with the relevant authorities in both countries in advance to ensure that all necessary paperwork and requirements are in order.

Scott Johnson

Scott Johnson is passionate about traveling. He loves exploring new cultures and places, and discovering the world around him. He believes that travel can open up new perspectives and opportunities for growth and development. Scott has visited many countries in Europe, Africa, South America, and Asia, and he continues to seek out new destinations for his adventures.

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Do Bulgarian Citizens Need a Visa to Travel to the United States?

Are you from Bulgaria? Are you planning to travel to the United States? If you answered yes, then this article is perfect for you.

Before you book for your trip, you may be thinking: Do Bulgarian citizens need a visa to enter the United States? What visa do I need to travel to or visit the United States? What are the visa requirements for the United States? How long can I stay in the United States on e-visa?

The majority of Bulgarian residents are asking these questions themselves. As the world shrinks with the advancement of technology and better travel options, it’s natural to want to see other regions of the globe.

If you’re looking to visit another country and do not already know its visa requirements, it might be a little difficult.

Luckily, we’ll discuss visa requirements and other important information about traveling to the United States with Bulgarian passport.

It is important to plan ahead before traveling so that nothing goes wrong. To help you with this, we have created this article, which provides helpful information on what you should do prior to traveling to the United States.

We will discuss what type of visa you need to enter or visit the United States, as well as how long you can stay in the United States if your visa is approved.

This article will provide everything you should know about getting a visa application to travel to the United States as a citizen from Bulgaria.

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About the United States

the United States is one of the most beautiful countries in the world; it is known for its rich culture and diversity. The country offers a variety of opportunities for tourists to explore its rich history and cultural heritage.

If you are looking for an ideal destination for your holiday or discover a new place, the United States is an excellent choice!

One method to gain an understanding of what makes this country special is to visit one of its many tourist attractions!

There are many things that make this nation special. The first is that it has a rich history that can be seen throughout many towns and monuments. In addition, it is home to a diverse community of people from across the globe living there.

If you’re planning on traveling there soon be sure to take a look at these attractions, so you do not be missing any thing!

The United States is a large country with a wide variety of places to visit. It has many unique attractions that are worth your time and money. The best time to visit the United States is during the summer months when the climate is warm and most people are on vacation. The fall months are also a good time to visit as it's still warm enough for outdoor activities, but not too hot for people to stay indoors. New York City is the best place to visit in New York state. It has many museums, landmarks, and sites that are worth your time and money. The United States is a large country with over five hundred states, each of which have different attractions.

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Visa Requirements for Visiting the United States With Bulgarian Passport:

In this section, we will talk about the requirements for a visa to visit the United States. However, before you get your eyes set on visiting the United States it is important to know that there are a variety of types of visas each with their own set of requirements.

If you’re contemplating your trip to the United States there are many things to consider, including the requirements for visas to enter the country. Although no two countries follow exactly the same procedure however, each has their own set of rules to obtain visas. This will help you determine whether your trip is worth the expense and effort.

If you’re planning to travel to an overseas country, the first thing you should be sure of is that you have all the necessary documents to be able to apply for an entry visa.

In order to apply for a visa there are several documents that you will need like documents proving your income or employment. The requirements can differ based on which kind of visa you’re trying to apply for. So make certain to verify before you make any plans!

Visa is required to enter this country. You must apply for a visa before traveling to this country. There are various types of visas one can apply for, such as student visas, working visas, and touristic visas, which all fall into this category. Nevertheless, remember that every category has a distinguished variety of requirements. Some visas are hard to get, whereas others are granted very easily. The same is why one needs to conduct thorough research before selecting the type of Visa they wish to obtain. To acquire it, you must visit the embassy of the country you wish to travel to. You must submit all your legal documents and follow the guided procedure. Most of these visas are granted on a referral basis as well. However, it all depends upon the country. Please check with the embassy of the country for the requirements and the application process.

In the end, it’s essential to be aware of the process by which the United States visas function and how they can impact the travel plan you have in mind. Although this article provides an overview of the procedure, you may also contact your local consulate , or embassy for more information about the specific circumstances.

Last Updated: 16/09/2022

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Bulgarian visa for US citizens

Due to the bureaucracy surrounding Bulgarian immigration regulations, US citizens are often confused whether they should apply for a visa before their trip, what procedures they need to follow, and what paperwork is required.

Do US Citizens Need a Visa to Visit Bulgaria?

United States citizens with a valid US passport can travel to Bulgaria as a tourist for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period. They do not have to apply or pay for a visa for short-term visits.

How Long Can US citizens Stay in Bulgaria Without a Visa?

The laws and regulations regarding entry to Bulgaria for American citizens (or any other foreign nationals) are governed by national legislations, many of which are derived from European Directives.

Under these legislations, every US citizen who intends to move to Bulgaria (and who doesn’t have right to live in Bulgaria) for a period of more than 3 months requires a visa type D. If you wish to stay in Bulgaria for more than 90 days, I strongly recommend that you check the visa type D requirements . If you do not meet the visa minimum requirements and apply for it, your application will be disqualified and the application fee will not be refunded.

Entering Bulgaria

To ensure that you stay within the 90-day visa-free limit in any 180-day period, border officers will stamp your passport upon entry and exit. If your travel documents lack the respective entry or exit stamps, it will be assumed that you have exceeded your visa-free duration. US citizens who leave Bulgaria and return within 90 days of the 180-day period before their return can stay in the country for the remainder of the 90-day period. However, those who have already spent the visa-free 90 days in Bulgaria before their return will be denied entry.

Consequences Of Overstaying

The Bulgarian Migration Directorate may consider you to be an "overstayer" if your Bulgarian immigration status has expired and you have remained in the country without justifiable reason. In such cases, you may need to pay a fine ranging from BGN 500 to BGN 5000 and you will be required to leave Bulgaria at your own expense.

Staying beyond the 90-day limit in Bulgaria may cause you to be barred from entering the country in the future due to being viewed as an overstayer. We recommend you to leave Bulgaria soon, either by flying back to the US or travelling to a non-EU country such as Turkey, Serbia or North Macedonia. In some cases you may be eligible to file for an extension of stay in Bulgaria.

How does a US citizen get Bulgarian residency?

Once you have obtained the visa, you must get an Extended Residence Permit to continue your legal stay in Bulgaria. You'll need to renew it before it runs out. Extended residency cannot be applied for directly. You must have applied for a visa before switching to Extended residency.

The stay of US citizens in Bulgaria on a visa or residence permit basis does not count towards the 90-day limit.

The most popular ways to settle in Bulgaria

The procedure and specifications for the visa and the residence permit will depend on your specific situation and the reason for your visit. The list below gives useful information on the potential immigration opportunities. Although this is just a basic summary and not a comprehensive list of possibilities, it may help you contemplate lawful immigration paths that may be available:

Are you married to a Bulgarian?

If your partner is a Bulgarian national, you can apply for a visa type D to join them in Bulgaria. The application process for this kind of visa depends on two primary elements: if the marriage happened in Bulgaria or if it was registered outside the nation. We offer a complete service to assist those applying for partner visas.

Do you have Bulgarian Ancestory?

If you have ancestral links to Bulgaria and you may be qualified for Bulgarian citizenship. Bulgarian nationality law is intricate and if you do indeed have any ties to Bulgaria via the birth of your parents or grandparents in Bulgaria then we can advise you on your qualification.

Do you want to study?

If you are pursuing a full-time graduate or postgraduate degree, you can stay in Bulgaria under the student visa and bring your family with you. You must demonstrate that you have the financial means to support yourself and pay for tuition fees.

Do you want to retire?

Bulgaria offers a retirement visa that allows self-sufficient foreign nationals to retire in the country. There is no minimum retirement age for Americans looking to retire in Bulgaria. However, you will only be eligible to retire in Bulgaria if you receive your US public pension.

Do you want to work?

If you want to work in Bulgaria as a US national, you will need to secure a work permit, which is not something you can arrange on your own. To obtain a Bulgarian work permit, you will need a suitable job offer from a Bulgarian-based employer. The employer has to request this permit from the Bulgarian immigration authorities.

Do US Citizens Require Health Insurance in Bulgaria?

Health insurance for Bulgaria is not required for short-term stays of up to 3 months. It is, however, highly recommended to consider purchasing adequate coverage to cover any medical expenses or costs associated with emergencies such as illnesses or accidents that may occur throughout the visit.

Health insurance is required for US citizens who are given permission to remain in the country on the basis of long-term stay (type D visa).

Bulgarian Consulates in the US

Each consulate deals with inquiries related to visa and immigration matters originating from within its jurisdiction. Before traveling to Bulgaria, US citizens are advised to contact the respective consulate for assistance, depending on their location. American citizens living abroad must return to the US and apply for their visa from there. Americans cannot apply for a visa at the Bulgarian embassy/consulate from outside the United States.

• Consulate: Washington, DC Address: Consulate at the Embassy of Bulgaria, 1621 22nd Street NW, Dimitar Peshev Plaza, Washington, DC 20008 Phone: (202) 387 7969 Email: [email protected] Jurisdiction: Washington, Montana, Idaho, Oregon, California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii
• Consulate: New York Address: Consulate at the Embassy of Bulgaria, 1621 22nd Street NW, Dimitar Peshev Plaza, Washington, DC 20008 Phone: (212) 935 4646 Email: [email protected] Jurisdiction: New York, Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Jersey, Pennsylvania
• Consulate: Los Angeles Address: Consulate General of Bulgaria in Los Angeles, 11766 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 440, Los Angeles, CA 90025 Phone: (310) 478 6700 Email: [email protected] Jurisdiction: Los Angeles, Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky, West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, Delaware, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Georgia, Florida
• Consulate: Chicago Address: Consulate General of Bulgaria in Chicago, 737 North Michigan Avenue, Suite 2105, Chicago, IL 60611 Phone: (312) 867 1904 Email: [email protected] Jurisdiction: North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Wyoming, South Dakota, Iowa, Nebraska, Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio

Entry requirements for Bulgaria

As of September 1, 2021, passengers from the U.S. are prohibited from entering Bulgaria, unless they meet any of the following exceptions:

– Bulgarian nationals and permanent and long-term residents, as well as their family members; Please be advised HERE.

– Citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area and the Swiss Confederation and their family members arriving from a Member State of the European Union, the European Economic Area and the Swiss Confederation;

– Medical professionals, medical researchers, social workers, and their supervisors when travelling is related to their duties;

– Workers involved in the supply of medical products, medical devices and personal protective equipment;

– Foreign officials (heads of state, government members, etc.) and their delegations, diplomats, members of the administrative and technical staff of foreign missions, employees of international organizations, military personnel, security officials, public order officials and humanitarian workers in the performance of their duties, as well as their family members;

– Persons travelling for humanitarian reasons as described in § 1, item 16 of the Law for the Foreigners in the Republic of Bulgaria;

– Seasonal agricultural and tourism workers;

– Persons, who are to obtain a decree under the Bulgarian Citizenship Law for acquiring a Bulgarian citizenship, certified by a letter from the Ministry of Justice;

– Students with type “D” visas.

Persons who fall under an exception can enter Bulgaria by presenting a valid EU digital COVID certificate for vaccination or certificate of recovery, or a similar document, together with a negative result from a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test conducted up to 72 hours before entering the country, certified by a valid EU digital COVID test certificate or similar document containing the same data.

A vaccination certificate isn’t required for children 12 -18 years of age.

Neither vaccination certificate, nor PCR test result is required for children up to 12 years.

The travel requirements are subject to review every two weeks.

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• The Embassy

ETIAS for Bulgaria

Eu visa waiver for us citizens visiting bulgaria.

Bulgaria is in the process of joining the Schengen Area . Bulgaria is an EU Member State and, as a consequence, legally bound to join Schengen.

U.S. citizens will require an ETIAS to go to Bulgaria whether or not the country has fully joined the border-free travel zone at the time of launch. The ETIAS visa waiver program is being launched in 2025.

ETIAS is a new electronic travel authorization for the European Schengen Area. American tourists will be able to enter Bulgaria without a visa and stay for up to 90 days with ETIAS.

ETIAS Bulgaria for U.S. Citizens

Americans will soon need ETIAS to travel to Bulgaria without a visa . Since the Balkan state is in the process of joining the Schengen Area, U.S. passport holders will have to register for ETIAS online before departure.

The ETIAS visa waiver will be valid to visit all the countries in the Schengen Area as well as candidate countries. There are currently 27 nations in the borderless travel area, while Bulgaria, Romania, and Cyprus are in the process of joining.

ETIAS is valid to travel from the United States to the Schengen Area multiple times during its 3-year validity , or until the holder’s passport expires.

It will be valid for short tourism and business trips to Bulgaria , for up to 90 days per 180-day period.

ETIAS requirements for U.S. citizens to visit Bulgaria

To apply for ETIAS for Bulgaria , Americans will be required to:

• Complete the online ETIAS application form
• Provide passport details and security information
• Pay the ETIAS for Bulgaria processing fees

U.S. citizens must be visiting for transit, tourism, or business to be eligible for visa-free travel to Bulgaria with ETIAS. They cannot stay for longer than 90 days per 180-day period without applying for a visa.

Documents required to visit Bulgaria

Despite becoming a member of the European Union in 2007, Bulgaria has until now remained outside the Schengen Area. Bulgaria is in the process of joining Schengen and could do so soon.

U.S. citizens can travel to Bulgaria without a visa for up to 90 days per 180-day period.

To travel to Bulgaria, U.S. citizens are required to have the following :

• A valid U.S. machine-readable passport
• Hold an ETIAS visa waiver

The ETIAS application process is 100% online. Americans will need to complete the electronic form with the following information :

• Full name as it appears on passport
• Date and place of birth
• Home address
• Intended country of entry
• Security information

They will also be required to provide :

• A valid email address as all correspondence will be via email
• A debit or credit card to pay the online application fee

Applicants are notified by email once their visa waiver has been approved. The visa waiver is electronically linked to the U.S. passport and will be verified at the external Schengen border.

Tourist Travel Information about Bulgaria

Bulgaria is a Balkan state in southeastern Europe . Its combination of history and nature makes it an attractive destination for American tourists.

Plovdiv is the cultural capital of Bulgaria. Europe’s oldest living city and one of the 6 oldest cities in the world, Plovdiv boasts historical architecture and charming cobblestone streets.

The Bulgarian capital, Sofia , is another top choice for travelers. The St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, many museums, and churches are among the most visited places.

Known for its varied natural landscapes , Bulgaria is also a popular destination for travelers who love the outdoors. The country features beaches, rivers, lakes, mountains, forests, and even a desert.

About Bulgaria

Capital : Sofia

Language : Bulgarian

Area : 110.993 km²

Population : 7.000.039

Timezone : UTC/GTM 2

Currency : Lev

Code : +359

Electric sockets : Plug C and Plug F, 230 V, 50 Hz.

U.S. Embassy in Sofía, Bulgaria

There is one US embassy in Bulgaria , it is located in the capital city of Sofia.

Address : 16, Kozyak Street, Sofia 1408, Bulgaria

Phone : +359 2 937 5100

Interesting facts and tourist info about Bulgaria

• Bulgaria’s capital city Sofia is over 7,000 years old, making it the second oldest city in Europe.
• Bulgaria boasts over 15,000 Thracian tombs, many yet to be explored. It is the third most valuable archaeological site in Europe, after Italy and Greece.
• Thanks to its many mountainous regions, Bulgaria has a forest coverage of roughly one-third of its entire landmass.
• Bulgaria borders the Black Sea, which boasts sandy beaches and rugged cliffs.
• As much as 85% of the world’s rose oil is produced by Bulgaria, it is an essential ingredient in the production of perfumes.
• Bulgaria is the European country with the second-highest number of natural springs, it offers many spas that tourists can visit.

Medical Information for U.S. citizens

Recommended vaccines :

• Routine Vaccines
• Hepatitis A
• Hepatitis B

Emergencies :

In the event that US citizens require emergency services, they should call the European emergency number of 112. In Bulgaria, the average answer time is 7 seconds and callers can expect to speak with an English speaker. Bulgaria also has the following national emergency service numbers:

• Police: 166
• Ambulance: 150

False claim migrants in the US illegally need passports for air or land travel | Fact check

The claim: Individuals in the US illegally must now carry a passport to travel by air or land

[ En Español : Falso: inmigrantes que están ilegalmente en EE.UU. necesitan pasaporte para viajar ]

A March 17 Instagram video ( direct link , archive link ) shows a man talking about immigration documentation.

"Immigrants who do not have legal immigration status from this moment on, if you want to travel, even within the United States whether on local flights or by land by vehicle, you must carry your passport from this moment on,” says the commentator in the video.

The post garnered more than 6,000 likes in five days.

More from the Fact-Check Team: How we pick and research claims | Email newsletter | Facebook page

Our rating: False

The Transportation Security Administration accepts passports and other forms of identification, such as a driver's license, for individuals who are in the country illegally and want to travel. Such travelers without passports will need to verify identities with facial recognition to travel.

The TSA accepts passports and other forms of identification

The TSA accepts various identification from travelers , including foreign government-issued passports and state-issued enhanced driver's licenses.   

“To travel domestically in the U.S., TSA requires a valid form of identification which can be either a state- or federal-issued identification document,” Kelley Ortega , an attorney at the Jaime Barron Immigration Law Group, told USA TODAY. “A foreign passport is also often accepted. In practice, lots of individuals who are apprehended and released at the border either have no passport or have their passport confiscated and, as such, would not be able to present a valid identification to travel by plane with TSA upon their release.”

The post may be based on a report from the Associated Press on March 14 that noted the government has started requiring migrants without passports to submit to facial recognition technology to verify their identity if they want to take a domestic flight. But there are no reputable reports of passports being required to travel at all, contrary to the post's claim that they are mandatory even for land-based travel.

Fact check : Biden didn't remove bald eagle from passports; photo placed on different page

For immigrants already in the country illegally, 19 states and the District of Columbia allow them to obtain driver’s licenses, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. A driver's license is a document approved by the TSA for boarding a flight.

USA TODAY reached out to the user who shared the post for comment but did not immediately receive a response.

Our fact-check sources:

• Transportation Security Administration, accessed March 21, Acceptable Identification at the TSA Checkpoint
• Kelley Ortega, March 21, Email exchange and phone call with USA TODAY
• Associated Press, March 14, Migrants lacking passports must now submit to facial recognition to board flights in US
• National Conference of State Legislatures, March 13, 2023, States Offering Driver’s Licenses to Immigrants

Thank you for supporting our journalism. You can subscribe to our print edition, ad-free app or e-newspaper here .

USA TODAY is a verified signatory of the International Fact-Checking Network, which requires a demonstrated commitment to nonpartisanship, fairness and transparency. Our fact-check work is supported in part by a grant from Meta .

Immigration & Residency

Immigration. Travel. Living.

Bulgarian passport: how to get one?

Aside from being one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, Bulgaria  can boast of possessing state of the art infrastructures, a stable economy, peaceful residents, compelling taste of contemporary fashion, and very low crime rates .

Other than the fact that this country is an amazing place to live, the Bulgarian passport happens to be one of the most powerful travel documents on Earth .

According to the 2018 Visa Restrictions Index, Bulgarians can visit more than 171 countries without possessing a visa or having a visa granted on arrival . This fact makes this passport rank as the 16 th most intelligent passport in the world.

The Ministry of Interior is charged with the responsibility of issuing and renewing these documents. 

Citizens of this Balkan Republic who possess a valid passport or ID card can also live and work in the EU Member State of their choice due to the right of free movement and residence established in Article 21 of the European Union Treaty.

Aside from giving the beneficiary visa-free movement to more than 169 countries across the seven continents, Bulgarian passports are also international travel documents exclusively issued to the country’s nationals .

This handy document also allows you to get aid and assistance from any Bulgarian Embassy, Consulate, or consular officials abroad . If you can’t find any office or official, you can also receive aid from the Embassy of any European Union member states close to you.

There’s no way you can be stranded on earth as long as you have this handy travel document . If you are interested in obtaining this handy document, we are going to give you a step by step proceed

ure you need to complete to obtain a Bulgarian passport.

The process listed in this guide allows both Bulgarian nationals and foreigners to acquire a passport without breaking a sweat .

Requirements & Eligibilities

Before you can be given a Bulgarian Passport, you must be a citizen of the country, have a Bulgarian National ID card, a valid residential address for the past five years, and have your passport payment receipt as proof of payment.

Application

Bulgarian nationals interested in possessing an international passport can apply for one in any of the offices of the Ministry of Interior . If you live outside the country, you can submit your passport issuance application at any embassy, diplomatic or consular mission of the Republic of Bulgaria.

You have to appear in person upon acceptance of the application . This allows the officer managing your application to capture digital images of your signature, face, and fingerprints.

Application Cost

You can apply for a Bulgarian passport of only €10 if you are under the age of 14 or between the ages of 58 and 70. This fee is also very affordable for elderly citizens above the age of 70.

Older citizens above the age of 70 are required to pay just €5 for the authorities to begin processing their passports, while citizens between the ages of 14 and 58 are required to pay €20 to obtain their own passport.  Each passport is valid for only 5 years.

After you’ve completed your payment and filed your application, it would take the ministry or consular mission 5 business days to review and notify you of the results of your application .

What this means is that if your application is successful, you can be issued a new passport within 7 days.

Can Foreign National Get Bulgarian Passport?

Sadly no, you must be a legal citizen before you can give you an international passport . Thankfully, the naturalization process in Bulgaria is straightforward and the country also accepts dual citizenship status.

If you are a foreign national and would like to obtain a Bulgarian passport, you can become a Bulgarian citizen by naturalization, origin, or investment.

1. Citizenship by Origin

This is a straightforward naturalization process that allows a foreign national to obtain Bulgarian Citizenship by origin.

For you to become a Bulgarian national by origin, you must apply for a certificate of Bulgarian origin at the State Agency for Bulgarians Abroad, when your application is successful and approved, you will be issued a certificate of Bulgarian origin from the State Agency.

After obtaining a certificate of Bulgarian origin, you will take this document to the Ministry of Justice to complete your citizenship application. Once your application is approved, you will be granted Bulgarian citizenship rights and you can begin processing another request for a Bulgarian passport .

If your application is turned down, there are thousands of Bulgarian citizenship lawyers that can help you appeal your case with the Sofia Administrative Court.

2. Citizenship by investments

One of the fastest ways to attain Bulgarian and EU citizenship rights for you and your relatives is by investing in the country’s economy. Bulgaria offers one of the best investment options in Europe without requiring you to make any government donation .

The country offers two investment options: Standard-Track Investment and Fast-Track Investment.

The Standard Track option allows you to obtain a second passport within 6 years after you made a minimum investment of €512,000 . This option is refundable and allows you to get Bulgarian permanent residency or citizenship in 6 months or 60 months respectively.

The fast-track option is simply brilliant. You can obtain permanent residency or citizenship within 6 months or 18 months after investing at least €1,024,000 in the country’s economy .

You can also qualify for the fast-track investment option by doubling your standard-track investment in the second year of your investment.

This means that just 6 months after your investment, you can begin processing your passport and enjoy visa-free travel to over 170 countries that have a visa-exemption treaty with Bulgaria.

3. Citizenship by Naturalization

You can naturalize for the Republic of Bulgaria if you have been a legal permanent resident for at least 5 years, fluent in the Bulgarian language, and have a substantial income or occupation to provide for yourself .

Under the Bulgarian Citizenship Act, you can also become a citizen of Bulgaria if you’ve been married to a Bulgarian citizen for at least 3 years after the day of your application for citizenship.

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Topical Information

Application

Any Bulgarian citizen residing abroad may submit a passport issuance application at a diplomatic or consular mission of the Republic of Bulgaria.

The applicant has to appear in person because upon acceptance of the application consular officer will take digital images of the applicant’s signature, face and fingerprints.

Passport issuance applications are not accepted by diplomatic or consular missions that do not have available technical capacity for taking digital images of an applicant’s signature, face and footprints.

Notifying the applicant

The diplomatic or consular mission will, within 5 business days, notify the applicant as to whether the passport can be issued.

In case certain discrepancies in the data filled in are detected, the diplomatic mission will, within 7 business days, notify the applicant thereof, requesting him / her to remove them. In case the applicant fails to remove all discrepancies within one month from being so notified, the passport issuance procedure is terminated. Upon receipt of a confirmation, the diplomatic mission will notify the applicant within 7 business days of the issuance of his / her document.

Receipt of the document

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs may send the passports issued to the relevant diplomatic or consular mission of the Republic of Bulgaria abroad:

• through its own official channels
• through a company certified as a carrier of valuable shipments, if the applicant has requested the “forwarding via a carrier company” services and has paid for that service DHL .

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Where can I travel without a passport? Try these 6 destinations.

Securing a passport can be a hassle. 

New applicants can expect to spend $130 for a passport book, plus a $35 acceptance fee. Routine wait times are 10 to 13 weeks , and that doesn’t include mailing times, according to the State Department. Paying a $60 fee can expedite the process, but travelers will still need to wait seven to nine weeks for processing.

That means spur-of-the-moment international trips without a passport can be impossible to pull off. 

Start the day smarter. Get all the news you need in your inbox each morning.

Luckily, not all destinations require U.S. tourists to carry the document. Here are some popular destinations you can visit without a passport. 

Waited too long to get a passport?  Here's what to do

How long is a US passport good for?  Here's what to know — and how to renew it

Story continues below.

Puerto Rico passport requirements

Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory and popular Caribbean destination , is about as easy to fly to as any state if you have a state-issued ID. 

The island does not require a passport among U.S. citizens.

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US Virgin Islands passport requirements

The U.S. Virgin Islands, another Caribbean destination, allows domestic travelers to enter without a passport. 

"If you are a U.S. citizen a passport is not required, but it still serves as the best identification when traveling," the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism's website says. "Otherwise, you must be prepared to show evidence of citizenship when departing the islands, such as a raised-seal birth certificate and government-issued photo ID."

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Northern Mariana Islands passport requirements

Passports are not required to visit the Northern Mariana Islands, a  U.S. commonwealth  made up of 14 islands, including Saipan, Tinian and Rota.

Guam passport requirements

The Guam Visitors Bureau says U.S. citizens are required to show a U.S. passport, but photo ID and proof of citizenship may be accepted "on a case-by-case basis."  

Canada passport requirements

Citizens who are members of the NEXUS program , which expedites entry for pre-screened travelers, can present their membership as proof of identification when traveling, according to the Canadian government's website .

Travelers who do not have a passport can apply for a NEXUS card but will be able to use it at land or marine crossings only, not airports .

A NEXUS application processing fee costs $50 for a five-year membership, and children under 18 can apply with no fee. Application processing takes 12 to 14 months, according to the Department of Homeland Security .  

Additionally,  the State Department  says travelers under 16 do not need a passport to enter Canada; they need only proof of U.S. citizenship.

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Closed-loop cruise passport requirements

Travelers on closed-loop cruises – sailings that depart and end at the same U.S. port and travel within the Western Hemisphere – do not need a passport, according to Customs and Border Protection.

U.S. citizens can enter the country with a birth certificate and government-issued photo ID. If under 16, a U.S. citizen can present their birth certificate , certificate of naturalization or consular birth report abroad.

Customs and Border Protection says U.S. citizens on closed-loop cruises can enter or depart a country on the cruise with proof of citizenship, but some destination countries "may require" a passport.

"In those instances, the cruise lines would require passengers to have a valid passport to board even if it is not a U.S. requirement," the agency's website reads. "You should check with your cruise ship, travel agent, and destination country to confirm the requirements to enter the foreign countries you will visit."

Contributing: Nathan Diller, USA TODAY

Follow USA TODAY reporter Bailey Schulz on Twitter: @bailey_schulz . 

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Where can I travel without a passport? Try these 6 destinations.