Applying for a Bulgarian visa is only in person, as we collect biometric data (digital picture and fingerprints). There is no other consular office in South Africa, except in Pretoria, where you can apply for a Bulgarian visa, and you should plan a visit to the Embassy. Prior appointment is needed. The visa fee for people over 12 years of age, if no exemption rule applies, is ZAR 1 400. The processing term for the most common type of visa – C type – is 15 calendar days. Kindly, have this in mind in order to avoid situations like having to re-schedule flights. The visa fee is not reimbursed to applicants whose visa application is rejected. You may check the status of your visa application either by phone or by e-mail ([email protected]). When your visa is ready, you may collect your passport personally, through an explicitly authorized person, or by courier.

*Holders of VALID double or multiple entry Schengen visas and residence permits and holders of VALID double or multiple entry visas/residence permits for Switzerland/Liechtenstein DO NOT NEED a short term visa for Bulgaria. These holders may stay in Bulgaria visa free within the validity, allowed stay and number of entries of the above said visas/permits for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

* Holders of VALID visas and residence permits issued by Croatia, Cyprus and Romania DO NOT NEED a short term visa for Bulgaria. These holders may stay in Bulgaria visa free within the validity, allowed stay and number of entries of the above said visas/permits for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

If you apply for a Bulgarian D type visa, we recommend that you contact the Consular Office of the Embassy in order to receive advice on your specific case.