---
title: Bulgaria visa for citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe
description: Citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe 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/sao-tome-and-principe
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# Bulgaria visa for citizens of São Tomé and Príncipe

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

- **Valid passport with at least 2 blank pages** (Identity): Passport must be issued within the last 10 years.
- **Completed visa application form** (Identity): Form must be signed and dated.
- **Recent passport-size photograph** (Identity): 35x45mm, white background, not older than 6 months.
- **Travel health insurance** (Travel): Minimum coverage €30,000, valid for the entire Schengen area.
- **Round-trip flight itinerary** (Travel): Confirmed booking or ticket.
- **Accommodation proof** (Travel): Hotel reservation or invitation letter.
- **Bank statements (last 3 months)** (Financial): Original or certified copy.
- **Employment letter or proof of occupation** (Employment): Stating position, salary, and leave approval.
- **Visa fee payment receipt** (Supporting): Payment must be in local currency.
- **Copy of previous visas (if any)** (Supporting, 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.

## FAQs

### 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.

## More

- [Bulgaria visa for every passport](/visa/bulgaria)
- [Every destination for São Tomé and Príncipe passport holders](/visa/passport/sao-tome-and-principe)