Visas
A visa is no longer required for visitors from the EU and EFTA member states. Other nationals are advised to check with the Bulgarian embassy in their country. Tourists on a package holiday or in an organized group booked through a recognized travel agent or tour operator do not require visa.
|
|
Enter Bulgaria by car
When you enter Bulgaria by car you must state which border crossing you'll be using when you leave and pay a road tax accordingly. Route restrictions apply if you're only in transit through Bulgaria.
|
|
Address registration
Foreigners visiting Bulgaria must register their address with local authorities within 24 hours of arrival, unless staying at a hotel where registration is done automatically. If you intend to remain in Bulgaria longer than three months, you must apply for a residence permit from the local police office.
|
|
Changing money
Money can be exchanged safely at most banks and also at reputable exchange bureaus. Hotels and airports tend to give less favorable rates. Exchange bureaus are no longer allowed to charge a commission for money exchange, so check this first.
Never change money with anyone who stops you on the street and offers you a better rate.
|
|
Credit cards
Most hotels, shops and restaurants in Sofia accept credit cards, but this is not so in smaller towns and rural areas. Cash is the accepted form of payment, so keep plenty of small notes on you when traveling in the countryside.
|
|
Cash mashines
Cash machines are widely available in cities and larger towns and provide a convenient access to local currency. All major European and North American debit cards are accepted.
|
|
Bulgarian currency
Bulgarian currency is called Lev (BGL), plural: Leva. One Lev is made up of 100 stotinki. It is tied to the EURO and the exchange rate is fixed at EURO 1 = BGL 1,95583.
|
|
Traveller's cheques
Traveller’s cheques must be cashed at banks and most of them charge a commission.
|
|
Pick-pocketing
The most frequent crimes in Bulgaria are pick-pocketing, mugging and car theft. Keep to well-lit areas and do not walk across parks in the dark. Pickpockets are most active in the city centers and in areas frequented by tourists. Make sure your bag has a zipper and try to avoid using a rucksack. Do not leave your luggage unattended to. Keep your valuables in the hotel safe.
|
|
Leaving Bulgaria
All foreign nationals leaving the country must supply a receipt from the hotel they were staying at or a wet-stamped letter from the company they were visiting here in Bulgaria
|
|
