Entry rules to Bulgaria for Ukrainians in 2025

Do Ukrainian citizens need a visa to enter Bulgaria?

Citizens of Ukraine do not need a visa for short-term stays in Bulgaria. Ukrainians can freely travel within the country without obtaining a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. If you plan to stay longer, you must apply for the appropriate permit or temporary residence.

What documents are required to enter Bulgaria for Ukrainians?

For visa-free entry, Ukrainians must have the following documents:

• A valid passport – it must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended departure date from Bulgaria.
• Proof of travel purpose – such as a hotel booking, an invitation from relatives, or a rental confirmation.
• Return ticket or proof of financial means – sufficient funds must be available to cover the entire stay.
• Medical insurance – it is recommended to have insurance coverage of at least €30,000.

Is medical insurance required for travel to Bulgaria?

Medical insurance for Ukrainians is not mandatory for short-term stays; however, it is highly recommended. Having insurance will help you avoid unexpected expenses in case of illness or an accident. You can purchase reliable medical insurance from Visit World, which covers:

- Outpatient and inpatient treatment;

- Emergency medical evacuation;

- COVID-19 treatment expenses;

- Insurance for luggage and documents.

Useful tips for travelers from Ukraine when visiting Bulgaria

To make your trip to Bulgaria more comfortable, consider the following tips:

1. Use mobile apps for navigation and taxi services

Taxi fares in Bulgaria can be inflated for tourists, so it's best to use official apps such as TaxiMe or Yellow Taxi to avoid overpaying.

For city navigation, apps like Moovit or Google Maps provide real-time public transport schedules.

2. Book popular tourist attractions in advance

During peak season, popular sites such as Rila Monastery and The Seven Rila Lakes can be overcrowded. Booking tickets online in advance helps you avoid long queues and additional charges.

3. Avoid tourist restaurants in city centers

In popular tourist areas like Sunny Beach or central Sofia, food prices are significantly higher.

Instead, look for restaurants highly rated by locals on Google Maps, such as family taverns or traditional Bulgarian "mehanas", where you can enjoy authentic Bulgarian cuisine at reasonable prices.

4. Always check your bills in restaurants and shops

Sometimes, an additional “service charge” or hidden fees may be added to your bill. Always double-check the receipt before paying and ask for clarification if anything seems suspicious.

5. Beware of counterfeit goods at markets

Many markets sell counterfeit brand products. When purchasing souvenirs, opt for local artisan shops or official stores to ensure the authenticity of products such as traditional Bulgarian yogurt or rose oil.

6. Use exchange offices with the best rates

Avoid currency exchange offices in tourist areas and airports, as they often offer poor rates. Instead, use banks or official exchange points such as Crown Exchange, which provide better rates without hidden commissions.

7. Be mindful of cultural differences in communication

In Bulgaria, nodding means “no”, and shaking the head means “yes” – this can be confusing for tourists. Pay attention when interacting with locals, especially in shops or restaurants.

Can citizens of Ukraine extend their stay in Bulgaria?

If citizens of Ukraine wish to stay in Bulgaria for more than 90 days, they must apply for a temporary residence permit at the local Migration Office. To do so, they need to provide the following:

• Proof of financial stability;
• A rental agreement or proof of accommodation;
• Valid medical insurance;
• A police clearance certificate (in some cases).

The application should be submitted before the end of the allowed 90-day period to avoid fines or deportation.