São Tomé and Príncipe passport → Bulgaria

Bulgaria visa for citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe

Embassy / VFSShort-stay visa (C) · Tourist

Citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe 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 (C) · Tourist
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Entries	Single entry
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements for the last 3 months showing sufficient funds for the stay.

How to apply

1
Prepare documents
Gather all required documents as listed above.
2
Book appointment
Schedule an appointment at the nearest Bulgarian embassy or visa application centre.
3
Submit application in person
Attend the appointment with all original documents and photocopies.
4
Provide biometrics
Your fingerprints and photograph will be taken during the appointment.
5
Pay visa fee
Pay the non-refundable visa fee (exact amount advised at appointment).
6
Wait for processing
Processing may take up to 15 calendar days; longer if additional checks are needed.
7
Collect decision
Return to the centre or receive passport by post (if service available).

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport with at least 2 blank pages
Passport must be issued within the last 10 years.
Completed visa application form
Form must be signed and dated.
Recent passport-size photograph
35x45mm, white background, not older than 6 months.

Travel

Travel health insurance
Minimum coverage €30,000, valid for the entire Schengen area.
Round-trip flight itinerary
Confirmed booking or ticket.
Accommodation proof
Hotel reservation or invitation letter.

Financial

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Original or certified copy.

Employment

Employment letter or proof of occupation
Stating position, salary, and leave approval.

Supporting

Visa fee payment receipt
Payment must be in local currency.
Copy of previous visas (if any)
Optional
Helps demonstrate travel history.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: Equivalent of €50 per day of stay

Bank statements
Cash
Traveler's cheques

Funds must be available in a liquid form.

Good to know

Ensure all documents are translated into Bulgarian or English if not originally in one of these languages.
Visa validity and duration of stay are determined by the consulate and may differ from application request.
Entry into Bulgaria does not guarantee entry into Schengen area; separate Schengen visa may be needed for other EU countries.

Common refusal reasons

Incomplete or incorrect application form

Double-check all fields and sign the form.

Insufficient financial means

Provide clear bank statements showing adequate funds for the entire trip.

No valid travel insurance

Purchase a policy that meets Schengen requirements from a reputable provider.

FAQ

Do citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe need a visa for Bulgaria?

Citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe 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 São Tomé and Príncipe stay in Bulgaria?

Up to 90 days.

What documents do citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe 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; Accommodation proof; and 4 more.

Plan your trip to Bulgaria

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