Bulgaria Long-Term Visa for Indians | Application Guide from November 1, 2025

Starting November 1, 2025, Indian citizens can officially apply for Bulgaria’s long-term “D” visa directly from India. This major update simplifies access to European long-stay visas, making Bulgaria an attractive destination for Indian professionals, students, and families seeking opportunities in Europe.

🛫 1. Understanding the Bulgaria Long-Term (D) Visa

The Bulgaria long-term visa, also known as the D visa, is designed for stays exceeding 90 days. It allows foreigners to enter Bulgaria for purposes such as employment, education, family reunification, or business setup.

This visa serves as the first step toward Bulgarian residence and future EU mobility. With Bulgaria’s long-term visa process in India now active, Indian applicants can enjoy a smoother and more transparent application experience.

🏢 2. Where to Apply in India

From November 1, 2025, Indians can apply for the Bulgaria long-term visa at VFS Global application centres in six major cities — New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Ahmedabad.

Applicants must first schedule an appointment online through the VFS Global Bulgaria visa portal, submit required documents, and provide biometric data. This localized approach eliminates the need for travel to external embassies, making it easier to complete the Bulgaria visa application process in India.

📋 3. Step-by-Step Application Process

Applying for the Bulgaria long-term visa (D visa) involves the following steps:

1. Book an appointment online on the The Visa Manager page.

2. Prepare necessary documents — valid passport, photos, filled application form, and supporting documents for your visa category.

3. Visit your selected visa centre to submit documents and biometrics.

4. Pay the visa fees (in INR) during submission.

5. Track your application online until you receive the decision from the Bulgarian Embassy or Consulate.

This streamlined process enhances the visa application experience for Indian citizens, reducing processing delays and improving transparency.

🧾 4. Documents Required for the Bulgaria Long-Term Visa

To ensure smooth processing, applicants should prepare the following:

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)

• Completed Bulgaria visa application form

• Two recent passport-size photos

• Proof of accommodation in Bulgaria

• Financial proof (bank statements, employment letters, etc.)

• Health insurance valid for Bulgaria

• Purpose-related documents (job offer, university admission, or family proof)

Submitting accurate and verified documents improves your chances of approval and helps avoid visa rejection risks.

💼 5. Who Can Apply for the Bulgaria D Visa

The Bulgaria D visa caters to a range of applicants, including:

• Students admitted to Bulgarian universities or colleges

• Skilled professionals with valid job offers or employment contracts

• Business investors planning to start or expand operations in Bulgaria

• Family members of Bulgarian residents or citizens

This new development opens the door for Indians exploring opportunities in Europe through long-stay work or study visas.

⏱️ 6. Visa Processing Time and Validity

The standard processing time for Bulgaria’s D visa ranges from 30 to 45 days, depending on the case. Once approved, it allows a stay of up to 180 days and can later be converted into a residence permit within Bulgaria.

Applicants are advised to apply at least 8–10 weeks before their intended travel date to ensure timely approval.

🌍 7. Benefits of Applying from India

The launch of Bulgaria long-term visa services in India provides several advantages:

• Easier visa submission through trusted VFS Global centres

• Transparent application tracking and status updates

• Local support and document verification before embassy review

• Reduced travel and courier costs for Indian applicants

These improvements make Bulgaria one of the most accessible EU destinations for long-term stay visas from India.

📢 8. Tips for a Successful Application

• Check eligibility for your visa type (work, study, or family).

• Double-check documents before submission — incomplete files can cause rejection.

• Apply early to accommodate embassy processing times.

• Use authorized agents or travel consultants to avoid visa fraud.

Following these tips helps applicants maximize approval chances for their Bulgaria long-stay visa.

🧳 9. Future Outlook and Impact

This development marks a new phase in India–Bulgaria bilateral relations, promoting easier travel, education, and workforce exchange. As Bulgaria continues its EU integration path, Indian applicants will gain more access to European work and study opportunities.

With the introduction of this visa service expansion, Bulgaria positions itself as a friendly and growing hub for Indian migrants and investors seeking long-term residence in Europe.

📍 10. Final Takeaway

From November 1, 2025, the Bulgaria long-term visa process in India becomes a gateway for Indian citizens to explore opportunities across Europe. Whether you’re planning to study, work, or reunite with family, Bulgaria’s simplified D visa system offers a reliable path to your next chapter abroad.

Visit your nearest VFS Global Bulgaria centre to get started today and make your European dream a reality!

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