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Kenya passport → Bulgaria

Bulgaria visa for citizens of Kenya

Embassy / VFSShort-stay visa (C) - Tourist

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

Official application site

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

Key facts

Entry routeEmbassy / VFS · Short-stay visa (C) - Tourist
How to applyIn-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stayUp to 90 days
Visa validity180 days
EntriesMultiple entry
Processing time15–45 days
Government fee€90 + €35 service fee
Passport validityAt least 6 months
BiometricsRequired
AppointmentRequired
InterviewNot required
Onward or return ticketRequired
Proof of funds€50 per day

How to apply

  1. 1

    Prepare documents

    Gather all required documents including passport, photos, insurance, flight, accommodation, bank statements, employment letter.

  2. 2

    Complete application form

    Fill out the Bulgarian visa application form online or manually, print and sign.

  3. 3

    Book appointment

    Schedule an appointment at the Bulgarian embassy in Nairobi or VFS Global centre.

  4. 4

    Attend appointment

    Submit documents, provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo), pay visa fee.

  5. 5

    Wait for processing

    Processing takes 15-30 days; you may be called for an interview if required.

  6. 6

    Collect passport

    Return to the centre to collect your passport with visa decision, or opt for courier delivery.

Documents checklist

Identity

  • Valid passport with at least 2 blank pages

    Must have 6 months validity beyond intended stay

  • Completed visa application form

    Online or printed, signed

  • Recent passport-size photograph

    35x45mm, white background

  • Copy of passport data page

    A4 size copy

Travel

  • Travel health insurance

    Minimum €30,000 coverage

  • Round-trip flight itinerary

    Confirmed reservation not ticket

  • Hotel booking or accommodation proof

    For entire stay

Financial

  • Bank statements for last 3 months

    Showing sufficient funds

Employment

  • Employment letter with salary details

    From employer or self-employment proof

Supporting

  • Visa fee payment receipt

    Paid at VFS or embassy

  • Proof of legal residence (if not in home country)

    Optional

    e.g., residence permit or visa

  • Cover letter explaining purpose of visit

    Optional

    Optional but recommended

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: €50 per day of stay

  • Bank statements
  • Cash flow
  • Sponsorship letter

Sponsorship letter from host in Bulgaria can be used.

Good to know

  • Visa does not guarantee entry; final decision at border.
  • Apply at least 3 weeks before travel.
  • Biometrics valid for 59 months.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient funds

Provide bank statements showing adequate balance and stable income.

Incomplete documentation

Double-check all required documents before submission.

Invalid travel insurance

Ensure insurance covers entire Schengen area and minimum €30,000.

FAQ

Do citizens of Kenya need a visa for Bulgaria?

Citizens of Kenya need a visa for Bulgaria and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Short-stay visa (C) - Tourist.

How long can citizens of Kenya stay in Bulgaria?

Up to 90 days.

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

Government fee: €90 + €35 service fee.

How long does Bulgaria visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of Kenya need for Bulgaria?

Valid passport with at least 2 blank pages; Completed visa application form; Recent passport-size photograph; Travel health insurance; Round-trip flight itinerary; Hotel booking or accommodation proof; and 6 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Bulgaria?

At least 6 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://www.vfsglobal.com/bulgaria/kenya/

Sources

Plan your trip to Bulgaria

Nowah is an AI travel agent that books flights, hotels and eSIMs in one conversation and keeps track of your visa paperwork along the way. Need data on arrival? See the Nowah eSIM guide for Bulgaria.

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