Bulgaria visa requirements for Iran citizens 2026
Find out if Iran citizens need a visa to enter Bulgaria. Get the latest entry requirements, document checklist and processing times for Bulgaria travel.
VISA REQUIRED
Travel Requirements & Information
Visa Required
- Application: Required in advance
- Processing time: 15-30 business days
- Validity: Varies by visa type
- Fees: Check embassy website
Application Steps
- 1. Complete visa application form
- 2. Gather required documents
- 3. Schedule embassy appointment
- 4. Submit application & pay fees
- 5. Wait for processing & collect visa
Important Notes
- • Apply well in advance
- • Check embassy requirements
- • Ensure document validity
- • Keep copies of all documents
Iran Passport
Bulgaria Passport
Iran vs Bulgaria Passport Comparison 2026
Iran Citizens Traveling To
Traveling to Bulgaria
Travelling from Iran to Bulgaria in 2026
Iran citizens visiting Bulgaria currently need Visa Required entry — duration varies. The Iran passport holds global rank #190 with 13 visa-free destinations, while Bulgaria ranks #37 with 117 visa-free destinations. This guide outlines the exact rules, required documents, and processing timelines for this specific route.
Reverse: Bulgaria citizens travelling to Iran
Travellers from Bulgaria entering Iran need Visa on Arrival — 30 days. Visa policies are not always symmetric, so the requirements may differ from the opposite direction.
Passport Comparison: Iran vs Bulgaria
Passport Power Comparison: Visa-Free Access
Iran citizens currently enjoy visa-free or easy-access travel to 84 destinations, while Bulgaria passport holders can visit 180 countries without a prior visa. That's a difference of 96 destinations — the Bulgaria passport holds the stronger position in the 2026 global mobility index.
Mobility Score Analysis
The Iran passport scores 84 points on the easy-access index, compared to 180 for Bulgaria. This 96-point gap reflects the difference in how freely each passport lets its holder enter foreign territories without prior permission.
Where Iran and Bulgaria Citizens Can Travel Together Visa-Free
Planning a joint trip from Iran and Bulgaria? Both passports share visa-free or easy-access entry to 84 countries. These are ideal destinations if you're travelling as a mixed-nationality group, business delegation, or family.
Shared visa-free destinations (top 12):
See the full list below to plan your next joint getaway.
Political & Regional Bloc Memberships
Iran is a member of:
Iran is not a member of any major regional or political bloc tracked here.
Bulgaria is a member of:
- Schengen Area
- European Union
Regional bloc membership often grants simplified visa rules, free movement rights, and shared external border policies. When both origin and destination belong to the same bloc, entry is usually visa-free or heavily streamlined.
Estimated Visa Cost for Iran Citizens
Expected fee: approximately $90 – $150 USD per applicant, depending on visa category, processing speed, and current exchange rates.
Payment is made at the embassy or consulate during application submission. Additional service fees may apply.
Visa Processing Time
Full visa processing takes approximately 5 – 30 business days. Apply at least 4–6 weeks before your intended travel date.
Required Documents for Iran Citizens
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months beyond entry date, with at least 2 blank pages)
- Confirmed return or onward ticket
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking, rental, or invitation)
- Evidence of sufficient funds for the trip duration
- Completed visa application form (signed)
- Recent passport-style photo (colour, white background)
- Travel insurance meeting destination requirements
- Invitation letter (if applicable)
- Recent bank statements (last 3–6 months)
- Employment or no-objection certificate
- Biometric data collection (fingerprints, photo)
Travel Insurance Requirements
Travel insurance is mandatory for entry to Bulgaria as part of Schengen visa requirements. Minimum coverage: €30,000 for medical emergencies and repatriation, valid throughout the Schengen Area.
Currency, Time Zone & Practical Info
- Currency in Bulgaria: Bulgarian Lev (BGN)
- Time zone: Eastern European Time (UTC+2)
- Capital city: Sofia
- International dialling code: +359
Alternative Destinations Similar to Bulgaria
Explore other countries in the same region as Bulgaria — compare visa policies and plan multi-country trips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Iran citizens need a visa to visit Bulgaria?
Yes, Iran citizens need a visa to visit Bulgaria. You must apply for and obtain a visa before traveling.
Contact the Bulgaria embassy or consulate in Iran to apply for a visa.
What documents do I need to travel from Iran to Bulgaria?
Essential documents for travel from Iran to Bulgaria:
- Valid Iran passport with at least 3-6 months validity
- At least 2 blank pages in your passport for stamps
- Valid visa or travel authorization for Bulgaria
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
- Return or onward travel ticket
- Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
- Travel insurance (recommended or required)
How do Iran and Bulgaria passports compare globally?
Here's how the two passports compare in global rankings:
- Global Rank: #190
- Visa-free destinations: 13
- Easy access countries: 84
- Global Rank: #37
- Visa-free destinations: 117
- Easy access countries: 180
Can visa requirements change between Iran and Bulgaria?
Yes, visa requirements can change due to diplomatic relations, security concerns, or policy updates. Always check current requirements before traveling.
What should I do if I'm denied entry to Bulgaria with my Iran passport?
If denied entry, remain calm and ask for the reason. Contact your embassy for assistance and keep all documentation for potential appeals.
Do Iran citizens need a visa to visit Bulgaria in 2026?
Iran citizens currently require Visa Required to enter Bulgaria. Requirements can change, so always verify with the official embassy or consulate before travel.
How much does a Bulgaria visa cost for Iran passport holders?
The visa fee for Iran applicants travelling to Bulgaria typically ranges from $90 to $150 USD, excluding any service or expedited-processing surcharges.
How long does a Bulgaria visa take to process for Iran citizens?
Standard processing for Iran citizens applying for a Bulgaria visa is 5 – 30 business days. Expedited services may be available for an additional fee.
How many countries can both Iran and Bulgaria citizens visit together visa-free?
Both Iran and Bulgaria passport holders share visa-free or easy-access entry to approximately 84 countries, making these ideal destinations for joint travel.
Which passport is stronger — Iran or Bulgaria?
Passport strength is measured by the number of visa-free or easy-access destinations. Compare both passports in the section above to see the current ranking gap.
How long can Iran citizens stay in Bulgaria?
The permitted stay duration depends on the visa category. Most short-stay visas allow 30–90 days per entry. Check the embassy website for your specific visa type.