Bulgaria: Travel Requirements, Health, and Medical Insurance
Bulgaria is a European Union member and, since January 2025, applies the Schengen Area in full, including land borders. A recent and important change for anyone visiting the country is the adoption of the euro (EUR) as its official currency since January 1, 2026, replacing the Bulgarian lev. The official language is Bulgarian.
The public health system covers emergencies, but infrastructure outside Sofia and other major cities can be limited, so it's worth having insurance that allows access to private care. The emergency number is 112.
Visa and health for travelers
Visa: Bulgaria is a European Union member and, since 2025, applies the Schengen Area in full; the visa requirement depends on the traveler's passport.
Health & travel insurance: Public care covers emergencies, but many visitors prefer private clinics in Sofia and Plovdiv; travel insurance is recommended.
Visa and entry requirements
Passports that require a Schengen visa must apply with a flight booking, accommodation, and travel insurance with at least 30,000 EUR of medical coverage. Exempt nationalities can stay up to 90 days within a 180-day period, counting time across the entire Schengen Area.
- Passport valid for at least 3 months after the planned departure date.
- Proof of accommodation and sufficient financial means.
- Travel insurance with the minimum coverage if your nationality requires a visa.
Health, hospitals, and medical insurance
Public hospitals in Sofia and Plovdiv treat emergencies, but many international visitors prefer private clinics for shorter wait times and staff with better English skills.
Assist-365 covers hospitalization, COVID-19, and 24-hour medical assistance in Bulgaria, with a certificate valid to support a Schengen visa application; the code MEDALLOADV2023 gives a discount when you quote the plan.
Transportation and currency
Since 2026 the official currency is the euro (EUR), making payments easier for those arriving from other eurozone countries without needing to exchange money. Transportation between cities combines trains and buses, with buses often being faster.
When to travel
Summer is high season on the Black Sea coast, while winter attracts those who ski in Bansko and other mountain resorts. Spring and fall offer better prices and fewer crowds in cities like Sofia and Plovdiv.
Travel checklist for Bulgaria
Quick list based on this guide's real data (not generic) before traveling to Bulgaria.
- Check the visa requirement for Bulgaria based on your passport: Bulgaria is a European Union member and, since 2025, applies the Schengen Area in full; the visa requirement depends on the traveler's passport.
- Passport valid for at least 6 months from the entry date
- Travel medical insurance arranged, keeping this in mind: Public care covers emergencies, but many visitors prefer private clinics in Sofia and Plovdiv; travel insurance is recommended.
- Save Bulgaria's emergency number: 112, along with your insurer's contact
- Cash or a no-fee card in Euro (EUR)
- Physical and digital copies of passport, insurance and bookings
- Required or recommended vaccines up to date for the region
- eSIM or international data plan active on arrival
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Bulgaria use the euro?
Yes, since January 1, 2026, the euro (EUR) has been the official currency, replacing the Bulgarian lev.
What is the emergency number in Bulgaria?
112, valid across the country for police, fire department, and ambulance.
Is Bulgaria part of the Schengen Area?
Yes, in full since January 2025; the short-stay visa requirement depends on the traveler's passport.
Do Bulgarian public hospitals cover tourists?
They treat emergencies, but many visitors prefer private clinics; travel insurance makes that access easier.
