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Study in Bulgaria: Student Visas & Permits

Nationals of the EU, the EEA and Switzerland can freely move to Bulgaria and stay for as long as they like. If you’re not from one of these countries, then you’ll probably need a visa to enter Bulgaria. If you do need a visa to enter Bulgaria to study, you’ll need to get a D-type visa. 

May 31, 2021

Nationals of the EU, the EEA and Switzerland can freely move to Bulgaria and stay for as long as they like. If you’re not from one of these countries, then you’ll probably need a visa to enter Bulgaria. 

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If you do need a visa to enter Bulgaria to study, you’ll need to get a D-type visa. Requirements can vary from country to country, but this is generally what you’ll need to get a Bulgarian study visa:

  • Your passport
  • Two passport-sized photos
  • Medical insurance valid across the whole of the EU
  • Bank statements showing financial self-sufficiency. This will generally need to be half a year’s worth of tuition fees.
  • Tickets for your travel to Bulgaria
  • Photocopies of any previous Bulgarian or Schengen visas
  • Proof of admission to a Bulgarian school

You’ll need to present your documents in-person at your nearest Bulgarian embassy or consulate. You’ll need to present your documents in the original language and with a notarized Bulgarian translation. The fee is €100 (US$120).

lake bulgaria

Once in Bulgaria, you’ll need to apply for a temporary residency permit. To do this, you’ll need to present all of these documents again along with your proof of enrollment. The fee is €40 (US$48). You’ll need to apply in-person at your local police station. As a bonus, your residence permit lets you work up to twenty hours per week.

Your visa and permit are also valid for visits to Romania, Croatia and Cyprus. If you want to visit Serbia, North Macedonia or Greece, then you’ll need separate visas.

Study in Bulgaria

Bulgaria is an exciting place to study abroad for international students. With beaches, nightlife, a beautiful coastline and internship opportunities all in arm's reach. This section gives you an overview of what it's like to study abroad in Bulgaria.

Education in Bulgaria

Want to learn about how the higher education system works in Bulgaria? Ireland is an evermore popular destination for a variety of students, given its reasonable fees and good student scene. Take a minute to find out more about the structure of the education system in Bulgaria!

Housing & Living Costs

No matter where you study abroad, it’s important to create a budget in advance so that you’re prepared. Therefore, we’ve detailed average living and housing costs so that you can get a better idea of what you would be paying as a student in Bulgaria.

Tuition Fees & Scholarships

Tuition fees for degree programs in Bulgaria can vary. Both international and domestic students are expected to pay tuition fees in Bulgaria, but these fees can vary a lot. We've put together information on how this works, and on scholarships, in this section.

Language & Culture

Bulgaria is a country with a unique culture. Find out more about what the country offers in terms of language, culture, and more! We also talk about how to stay safe in Bulgaria in this section.

Application Process

Learn more about how to apply to Bulgarian schools in this section. You can find out what to do for undergraduate and postgraduate study.

Programs

Ready to look at education in Europe? Use our search engine to find and compare top programs in Europe today!

Keystone Team

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The Keystone Team is comprised of experienced educators and advisors dedicated to providing valuable resources and advice to students all over the world.