DR Congo passport → Bulgaria

Bulgaria visa for citizens of the DR Congo

Embassy / VFSSchengen Visa (Short-stay)

Citizens of the DR Congo 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 (Short-stay)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Visa validity	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 balance (approx. €50 per day of stay)

How to apply

1
Determine visa type and gather documents
Identify the correct Schengen visa (short-stay) and collect all required documents listed above.
2
Book an appointment at the Bulgarian embassy/consulate
Schedule an in-person appointment via the embassy's online booking system or by phone. Appointments are mandatory.
3
Complete the visa application form
Fill out the Schengen visa application form accurately, print and sign it.
4
Attend the appointment and submit documents
Bring all original documents plus copies, passport photos, and fee payment. Biometrics (fingerprints and photo) will be taken.
5
Pay the visa fee
Pay the €80 fee (or applicable reduced fee) at the time of submission. Keep the receipt.
6
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 15 calendar days, but can extend up to 30 days or more in some cases.
7
Collect passport and decision
Once processed, collect your passport from the embassy/consulate or via courier if arranged. Check the visa sticker for accuracy.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages, issued within last 10 years, valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen area)
Completed and signed Schengen visa application form
Two recent passport-size photographs (35x45mm, white background, not older than 6 months)
Proof of civil status (marriage certificate, birth certificate of children if applicable)
Optional
Only if applicable

Travel

Round-trip flight itinerary or reservation
Must show entry and exit from Bulgaria/Schengen area
Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage, valid for entire Schengen area)
Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, rental agreement, or invitation letter from host)
Previous Schengen visas (if any)
Optional
Provide copies of previous visas

Financial

Proof of sufficient financial means (bank statements, sponsorship letter, or payslips)
Typically €50 per day of stay
Visa fee payment receipt (€80 for adults, €40 for children 6-12, free for under 6)
Payable at embassy/consulate or via bank transfer

Employment

Proof of employment/study (employment letter, leave approval, or enrollment certificate)

Supporting

Cover letter explaining purpose of visit and itinerary

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: €50 per day of stay

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Sponsorship letter with sponsor's bank statements
Payslips (last 3 months)

Sufficient funds must be demonstrated for the entire stay.

Good to know

Visa does not guarantee entry; border police may refuse entry.
Overstaying the visa can lead to bans and legal consequences.
All documents must be in Bulgarian, English, or accompanied by a certified translation.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect application form

Double-check all fields and sign the form.

Insufficient financial means

Provide clear proof of funds covering the entire stay.

Lack of travel health insurance

Purchase insurance meeting Schengen requirements.

Unclear purpose of visit

Write a detailed cover letter with itinerary.

Previous visa violations or overstays

Ensure compliance with all previous visa conditions.

FAQ

Do citizens of the DR Congo need a visa for Bulgaria?

Citizens of the DR Congo need a visa for Bulgaria and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Schengen Visa (Short-stay).

How long can citizens of the DR Congo stay in Bulgaria?

Up to 90 days.

How much does the Bulgaria visa cost for citizens of the DR Congo?

Government fee: €90.

How long does Bulgaria visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of the DR Congo need for Bulgaria?

Valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages, issued within last 10 years, valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Schengen area); Completed and signed Schengen visa application form; Two recent passport-size photographs (35x45mm, white background, not older than 6 months); Round-trip flight itinerary or reservation; Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage, valid for entire Schengen area); Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings, rental agreement, or invitation letter from host); and 6 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Bulgaria?

At least 3 months.

Plan your trip to Bulgaria

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