Instructions and Recommendations of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
25 June 2025 News
In light of the latest escalation of tensions in the Middle East region, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Bulgaria advises Bulgarian citizens located in affected countries who require assistance to contact the MFA using one of the following communication channels:
Situation Centre Directorate
Tel.: +359 2 948 24 04; +359 2 971 38 56; +359 893 339 616
Fax: +359 2 870 71 37
Email: [email protected]
We inform you that, at present, the airspace of Iran is closed. As a result, departure from the country by air cannot currently be carried out.
At this time, evacuation is only possible via the country’s land borders:
- Via the land border with Armenia – Bulgarian citizens holding valid passports do not require a visa.
- Via the land border with Turkey – Bulgarian citizens holding valid passports do not require a visa.
- Via the land border with Azerbaijan – Astara Border Checkpoint – A special permit from the Azerbaijani authorities is required to cross. Holders of ordinary Bulgarian passports need a visa for Azerbaijan. A visa may also be obtained through the online system — ASAN Visa. The service is available at the following portal: https://evisa.gov.az/en/
- Crossing the land border with Turkmenistan is currently permitted only for diplomatic personnel.
Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in the State of Israel:
Telephone numbers: + 972 54 595 4379; +972 54 463 4003
The situation in the State of Israel remains dynamic and is constantly evolving. Therefore, all recommendations issued by the local authorities and by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs must be strictly followed.
At present, Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv and the airport in Haifa are fully operational. Restrictions on the number of incoming and outgoing flights, passengers, and accompanying persons at the airports have been lifted. Israeli airlines El Al, Israir, and Blue Bird have resumed flights to Bulgaria.
Options for departure via the country’s land border checkpoints and by sea remain open.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through its embassies in the region, continues to monitor the highly dynamic situation closely and will keep interested Bulgarian citizens informed about the available options for leaving high-risk areas.