Bulgaria, a former country of the socialist bloc, is located in the eastern part of the Balkan Peninsula. During the period when the European state was under the influence of the USSR, not everyone dreamed of vacationing at the famous resort of "Golden Sands". After the collapse of the Soviet Union, Bulgaria smoothly embarked on the path of Euro-integration. The Balkan state obtained EU membership as early as 2007, but in terms of economic indicators, Bulgaria is still considered an outsider among European countries. In March 2024, the territory of the Balkan state, along with Romania, partially entered the Schengen zone ("Border control" was abolished only at air and sea borders). For this reason, the question of whether a Schengen visa is needed to enter Bulgaria remains relevant for Russians. Yes, the document is necessary to cross the border of the Balkan state, and it has already been announced in Sofia that it will be issued to compatriots in the foreseeable future.
The mild climate, the ability to quickly overcome the language barrier, favorable environmental conditions, low crime rates, and affordable housing costs are common reasons why Russians consider relocating to Bulgaria.
As in other EU countries, entry into the territory of the Balkan state is permitted with short-term or long-term visas. The first type of document allows a foreign guest to legally stay in Bulgaria for no more than 90 days within a six-month period (visa "C"), while the second type is issued for a longer period exceeding 90 days (visa "D").
A visa to the Balkan state is processed within 7-15 working days from the date of application registration (the period may be extended to 45 working days). Entry permits are issued by the staff of the Embassy of Bulgaria (Moscow, Mosfilmovskaya Street, Building 66).