Botswana passport → Bulgaria

Bulgaria visa for citizens of Botswana

Embassy / VFSSchengen Visa · Tourist (up to 90 days)

Citizens of Botswana need a visa for Bulgaria and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Schengen Visa · Tourist (up to 90 days)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	15–45 days
Government fee	€90
Passport validity	At least 3 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements for last 3 months showing sufficient funds

How to apply

1
Determine visa type and gather documents
Check if you need a Schengen visa for Bulgaria and collect all required documents.
2
Book an appointment at the Bulgarian embassy or consulate
Schedule an in-person appointment via the embassy's online booking system.
3
Complete the visa application form
Fill out the Schengen visa application form accurately and sign it.
4
Attend the appointment and submit documents
Bring all original documents and copies to the embassy; submit application and pay fee.
5
Provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo)
Biometrics are collected during the appointment; valid for 5 years.
6
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 15 calendar days, can extend to 45 days in complex cases.
7
Collect passport with visa decision
Return to embassy or arrange courier to receive your passport.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages, issued within last 10 years)
Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen area
Completed and signed visa application form
Download from embassy website
Two recent passport-size photographs (35x45mm, white background)
Must meet ICAO standards

Travel

Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
Valid for entire Schengen area and duration of stay
Round-trip flight itinerary or confirmed booking
Show entry and exit dates
Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or invitation letter)
For entire stay in Bulgaria
Travel itinerary (day-by-day plan)
Optional
Optional but recommended

Financial

Bank statements for last 3 months
Show sufficient funds for stay

Employment

Employment letter or proof of student status
Include salary and leave approval

Supporting

Copy of previous Schengen visas (if any)
Optional
Helps demonstrate travel history

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Equivalent of €50 per day of stay

Bank statements
Sponsorship letter
Traveler's checks

Bank statements must be recent (last 3 months) and show regular transactions.

Good to know

Visa does not guarantee entry; border officials make final decision.
Overstaying may result in fines or future visa bans.
Biometrics are required every 5 years for Schengen visas.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient funds or unclear source of income

Provide clear bank statements and proof of employment or sponsorship.

Incomplete or incorrect application form

Double-check all fields and sign the form.

Missing travel insurance or invalid coverage

Purchase insurance that meets Schengen requirements (€30,000 minimum).

FAQ

Do citizens of Botswana need a visa for Bulgaria?

Citizens of Botswana need a visa for Bulgaria and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Schengen Visa · Tourist (up to 90 days).

How long can citizens of Botswana stay in Bulgaria?

Up to 90 days.

How much does the Bulgaria visa cost for citizens of Botswana?

Government fee: €90.

How long does Bulgaria visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of Botswana need for Bulgaria?

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages, issued within last 10 years); Completed and signed visa application form; Two recent passport-size photographs (35x45mm, white background); Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage); Round-trip flight itinerary or confirmed booking; Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation or invitation letter); and 4 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Bulgaria?

At least 3 months.

Where do I apply?

Applications go through https://www.mfa.bg/en/services/visas. Check that you are on the government's site before you pay.

Sources

mfa.bg

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