--- title: Bulgaria visa for citizens of Mali description: Citizens of Mali need a visa for Bulgaria and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 90 days. Documents checklist and application steps. canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/bulgaria/mali lastModified: 2026-09-05 --- # Bulgaria visa for citizens of Mali Citizens of Mali 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 · Short-stay visa (Type C) - Tourist - **How to apply:** In-person at an embassy or visa center - **Maximum stay:** Up to 90 days - **Entries:** Multiple entry - **Passport validity:** At least 6 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 for the stay. ## How to apply 1. **Determine visa type and check requirements** — Visit the Bulgarian embassy website or VAC site for official requirements. 2. **Gather required documents** — Collect all documents as listed, ensuring they are translated into Bulgarian, French, or English if necessary. 3. **Book an appointment** — Schedule a personal appearance at the nearest Bulgarian embassy or authorized visa application centre. 4. **Pay the visa fee** — Pay the applicable visa fee and service fee (if using VAC) and keep the receipt. 5. **Attend the appointment** — Submit documents in person, provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo), and answer questions if asked. 6. **Wait for processing** — Processing time is typically 15 calendar days, may extend to 30 or 60 days in certain cases. 7. **Collect your passport** — Either pick up your passport in person or receive it via courier if that option was chosen. 8. **Verify visa details** — Check the visa sticker for correct validity dates, number of entries, and personal information. 9. **Prepare for travel** — Ensure you have all travel documents and insurance for the trip. 10. **Enter Bulgaria** — Present your passport with visa at border control; be prepared to show return ticket and accommodation. ## Documents checklist - **Valid passport with at least two blank pages** (Identity): Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond planned departure from Bulgaria. - **Completed visa application form** (Identity): Signed and dated. - **Two recent passport-sized photographs** (Identity): According to Schengen/ICAO standards. - **Travel health insurance covering at least €30,000** (Travel): Valid for the entire Schengen area and the period of stay. - **Round-trip flight reservation** (Travel): Not a ticket; reservation showing entry and exit dates. - **Hotel reservation or proof of accommodation** (Travel): For the entire stay or an invitation letter if staying with a host. - **Bank account statements for the last 3 months** (Financial): Original or certified copy. - **Employment letter or proof of student status** (Employment): Indicating position, salary, and approved leave. - **Proof of civil status (marriage certificate, birth certificate if applicable)** (Supporting, optional): Only if relevant to the purpose of travel. - **Visa fee payment receipt** (Supporting): Paid in local currency as per embassy/VAC instructions. - **Appointment confirmation letter** (Supporting): Printout of the appointment email. - **Previous passports with visas (if any)** (Identity, optional): To show travel history. - **Return flight ticket or booked itinerary** (Travel): May be requested at the time of submission. - **Copy of your current passport's bio page** (Identity): Plain copy. ## Proof of funds - bank statements - sponsorship letter (if applicable) - pay slips - tax returns The amount is not officially specified but should cover the entire stay (approx. €50 per day). ## Good to know - Visa applications must be submitted at least 15 days before intended travel, but no earlier than 6 months. - Incomplete applications may be rejected without refund. - Biometrics are collected every 59 months (5 years) for Schengen/Bulgaria visa applicants. ## Common refusal reasons - **Insufficient funds demonstrated** — Provide clear bank statements and a letter of financial support if needed. - **Invalid or insufficient passport validity** — Ensure passport has at least 6 months validity beyond departure and two blank pages. - **Inadequate travel insurance coverage** — Get insurance that covers medical expenses up to €30,000 and repatriation. - **Unclear purpose of visit** — Submit a detailed itinerary, flight and hotel reservations, and invitation letters if applicable. ## FAQs ### Do citizens of Mali need a visa for Bulgaria? Citizens of Mali need a visa for Bulgaria and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Short-stay visa (Type C) - Tourist. ### How long can citizens of Mali stay in Bulgaria? Up to 90 days. ### What documents do citizens of Mali need for Bulgaria? Valid passport with at least two blank pages; Completed visa application form; Two recent passport-sized photographs; Travel health insurance covering at least €30,000; Round-trip flight reservation; Hotel reservation or proof of accommodation; and 8 more. ### How long must my passport be valid for Bulgaria? At least 6 months. ## More - [Bulgaria visa for every passport](/visa/bulgaria) - [Every destination for Mali passport holders](/visa/passport/mali)