Visa Information for Bulgaria
Most VIEC programme participants travel to Bulgaria on a short-term Type C visa. The final type of visa depends on the duration of your studies and your nationality.
Bulgaria is an EU member but not part of the Schengen Zone, so visa requirements are regulated by Bulgarian national law. You can check whether you need a visa on the official website of the Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Types of Visas
Short-Term Visa C
(up to 90 days)
Suitable for:
- VIEC summer camps
- Language courses and programmes up to 3 months
Key details:
- Stay in Bulgaria up to 90 days within a 6-month period
- Does not allow long-term study or residence
Student Visa D
(up to 90 days)
Suitable for:
- Academic programme
- Long-term study in Bulgaria
- Students aged 16+
Key details:
- Issued for 3–12 months
- For long-term study, a residence permit is issued
- Requires an extended set of documents
Visa Extension
Suitable for:
- Participants whose short-term Visa C is about to expire
- Students continuing their studies
Key details:
- Processed within Bulgaria
- Allows legal extension of stay
- Allows legal extension of stay
How to Get a Bulgarian Visa: Step-by-Step
01Choose the type of visa
- Visa C — Summer camps and short programmes
- Visa D — Programmes longer than 90 days
02Prepare documents
Passport
Registration form
Invitation letter from VIEC
Photo
Insurance
Parental consent (for minors)
Proof of financial means
03Submit your application
Through the Bulgarian consulate or visa center in your country
04Receive your visa
Processing times vary by country: typically 10–30 days
