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The Visa Process for Bulgaria

From the initial consultation to implementation to visa acquisition, I’m here to help you get through the necessary steps and gather all the vital information to seamlessly present your migration application.

The application process is complex and often confusing, but it doesn't have to be. Below, I have broken the visa application process into 10 small, easily digestible steps:

• 1. Present your information

  Present all of the information regarding your case (e.g. purpose of visiting Bulgaria, your home country, how long you intend to stay). Failing to receive accurate information handicaps my ability to effectively represent you and may also have a negative impact on the entire process. Clients can expect to have a frank discussion of their application, the applicable law and the prospects for their case.

• 2. Detailed consultation

  Once I understand a client’s needs, I draw on my experience and expertise to inform them precisely what is legally possible and which type(s) of visa is best suited to their circumstances. As a leading immigration lawyer, I am current with constantly changing immigration laws, and work closely with the government departments which are responsible for overseeing this legislation.

  This is the time for you to ask me the questions necessary to determine how to proceed, and I will provide all of the information and options for the best outcome. I expect and require my clients to follow all of my advice.

• 3. Lawyer fee payment

  I’m committed to being open and transparent about my fees and costs – this is a fundamental part of my legal advising service. I only advise clients to start an application process if they have a reasonable chance of success (in Step 2).

  I work on “No-win, no fee” basis, meaning that if – for any reason – my client’s application is unsuccessful and visa is refused, I will not charge a contingency fee for my legal services.

• 4. Gather the required documents

  The required documents are a crucial part of the visa application. Each visa type requires different documentation, so I walk each client through which paperwork is needed in order to process the application.

  In many cases, the sheer number of documents that are collected require a substantial amount of time. This needs to be taken into careful consideration to prevent unexpected delays and missed deadlines. If the documents are to be sent by mail, I highly recommend using DHL or FedEx instead of regular postal service. Documents arrive safely, on time and can be tracked along the way.

• 5. Preparing the documents

  All documents that are not in Bulgarian need to be translated before applying. Document translation requires a professional service provided by experienced, native-speaking translators.

  I work with certified translation agencies that ensure my clients’ papers are quickly and professionally processed at a reduced price. Bulgarian authorities either require a true copy or legal certification (notarization) to certify that a document/signature is authentic if supplying translated documentation.

• 6. Complete the application form(s)

  Information related to the client’s personal profile, the purpose of their visit and other details regarding their entry must be provided on the application form. To avoid common pitfalls and administrative challenges, I typically fill out this information.

  The Bulgarian visa application form has a similar format to other EU countries. Visa applications forms are submitted no later than 3 months before the date of the intended visit.

• 7. Submit the application

  All visa applicants are expected to set up an appointment with consulate/embassy staff before submitting their application. They must attend the designated appointment in person when handing in the application form and attached documentation. At the consulate, applicants will not be accompanied unless they are minors, of sensitive health or require physical assistance. If the applicants are not able to speak English or Bulgarian, accompaniment is recommended.

• 8. Pay the visa fee

  When applying for a Bulgarian visa, clients need to pay a non-refundable administration fee for their visa application to be processed. EU member countries have synchronized their visa fees. Therefore, they are static and unchangeable unless decided otherwise by individual EU states. The cost of visa application largely depends on several factors such as visa type and the time clients intend to remain in the country.

• 9. Visa approval

  Applicants will need to wait up to 35 working days for the visa to be issued and stamped, and the passport to be returned. In most cases, the waiting time is a bit shorter and typically takes between 20 to 30 working days. My general recommendation to my clients is to avoid making any travel arrangements until their visa has been approved.

• 10. Ongoing support

  Even after the case is finished and the visa is issued, I remain available for advice and consultation at any time. By collecting and keeping relevant information, renewals are easy, inexpensive and I remind clients when it is time to re-apply.

There’s no better time to discover how I can help. Get in touch with me at [email protected] or use the inquiry contact form below.