In connection with the accession of Bulgaria to the Schengen area on 31.03.2024, the Consulate General of the Republic of Bulgaria in Edirne informs that the national visas for short-term residence (type C), issued by the Republic of Bulgaria and Romania before 31.03.2024, remain valid for their period of validity. However, holders of these national short-stay visas will only be able to travel to the Republic of Bulgaria, Romania and also to the Republic of Cyprus, but not to other Schengen member states.

Holders of a national short-stay visa issued by the Republic of Bulgaria or Romania who wish to travel to other Schengen member states will need to apply for a Schengen visa.

Applying for a Schengen visa issued by the Republic of Bulgaria will be possible after 31.03.2024.

Holders of long-term residence visas (type D) issued by the Republic of Bulgaria and Romania, still valid after 31 March 2024, will be able to travel freely within the Schengen area in accordance with Schengen rules (no more than 90 days within every 180-day period) after 31 March 2024, regardless of internal land border controls.