Official Global Travel Advisories
- Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice
- Avoid all cruise ship travel outside Canada until further notice
Mandatory COVID-19 testing
To be allowed to board a flight to Canada, all air passengers 5 years of age or older, including Canadians, are required to show a negative COVID-19 molecular test result taken within 72 hours of their scheduled time of departure to Canada. If the traveller has a connecting flight to Canada, the pre-departure test must be conducted within 72 hours of the last direct flight to Canada. This means they may need to schedule a COVID-19 test at their transit city within 72 hours of their direct flight to Canada.
All travellers 5 years of age or older, including Canadians, arriving to Canada by land are required to show a negative COVID-19 molecular test result taken in the United States within 72 hours prior to crossing the border into Canada.
Alternatively, travellers can present a positive COVID-19 molecular test taken between 14 and 90 days prior to departure.
More information on measures in place to enter Canada – Government of Canada
Bulgaria Register Travel insurance Destinations
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Latest updates: The Health tab was updated - travel health notices (Public Health Agency of Canada).
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Risk level(s)
Risk level(s)
COVID-19 – Global travel advisory
Effective date: March 13, 2020
Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice.
This advisory overrides other risk levels on this page, with the exception of any risk levels for countries or regions where we advise to avoid all travel.
Bulgaria - Take normal security precautions
Take normal security precautions in Bulgaria.
Safety and security
Safety and security
COVID-19 - Preventative measures and restrictions
Preventative measures and restrictions are in place. You must wear a face covering in public spaces. If you violate the restrictions, you could be fined for endangering public health.
- Follow the instructions of local authorities related to physical distancing
- Avoid crowded areas
Crime
Petty crime
- Pay particular attention at train and bus stations, tourist sites and crowded areas
- Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
- Avoid showing signs of affluence and carrying large sums of cash
Overcharging
Some tourists have been victims of overcharging in bars and clubs. Discussions about overcharging may lead to threats of violence by security guards, who may force you to pay.
- Be particularly vigilant at tourist resorts along the Black Sea, where this practice is most common
Vehicle theft
Vehicle thefts and break-ins occur frequently.
- Park in a guarded location whenever possible
- Store your valuables safely out of sight
Always be suspicious if someone offers to help you with a flat tire. These individuals may have punctured the tire themselves. They may seize the opportunity to steal your purse or other valuable objects while you’re distracted.
Organized crime
Organized criminal groups are active in casinos and nightclubs. Violent crime may occur, and includes bombings and shootouts between rival gangs.
Fraud
Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. ATMs fitted with fraudulent card readers are common, particularly in Sofia, Burgas and Varna. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:
- pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
- use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
- avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
- cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
- check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements
Spiked food and drinks
Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.
Terrorism
There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorist attacks have occurred in a number of European cities. There is a potential for other violent incidents.
Targets could include:
- government buildings, including schools
- places of worship
- airports and other transportation hubs and networks
- public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners
Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.
Keep in mind, however, that even the most secure locations aren’t completely free of risk.
In response to terrorist attacks in other European cities, Bulgarian authorities have strengthened their security measures in all cities, particularly where large crowds gather.
Demonstrations
Demonstrations may occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
- Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
- Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Road safety
Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country. Driving conditions may be hazardous due to aggressive drivers, excessive speeds, poor lighting and a lack of traffic signs and lane markings. Potholes and wandering animals are common on rural roads.
- Avoid confronting aggressive drivers, as they may be armed
- Avoid driving after dark outside of major cities
- Be especially cautious when driving during winter, as roads may not be plowed or salted
Pedestrians
Be cautious when crossing streets. Drivers don’t always give pedestrians the right of way.
Bribery
Police occasionally solicit bribes. They may delay you if you refuse to pay the bribe, but you’re unlikely to experience additional problems beyond inconvenience.
Public transportation
Taxis
- Use only licensed taxis with meters
- Verify the tariffs on the taxi’s window before entering, as taxi drivers sometime overcharge
- At Sofia Airport, visit the taxi booth in the arrivals terminal to obtain a fair rate
Rail services
Rail services are generally poor. It’s preferable to travel via inter-city buses.
Public transportation systems
Most cities and larger towns have public transportation systems. Inter-city buses are frequent, comfortable and relatively fast. Regular bus service exists between most of Bulgaria’s major cities and towns.
Disruptions and delays to public transportation services, including at ferry ports, railway stations and border crossings, may occur.
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
General information about foreign domestic airlines
Stray dogs
Beware of stray dogs, especially those travelling in packs. They can be dangerous and could expose you to disease if they bite you.
Entry/exit requirements
Entry/exit requirements
COVID-19 - Entry, exit and transit restrictions and requirements
In an attempt to limit the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), most governments have implemented special entry and exit restrictions and requirements for their territory.
Before travelling, verify if the local authorities of both your current location and destinations have implemented any specific restrictions or requirements related to this situation. Consider even your transit points, as many destinations have implemented strict transit rules which could disrupt your travel.
These could include:
- entry bans, particularly for non-residents
- exit bans
- quarantines of 14 days or more upon arrival, some in designated facilities, at your own cost
- proof of a negative COVID-19 test result
- health screenings and certificates as well as proof of adequate travel health insurance
- travel authorization documents to be obtained before you travel
- border closures
- airport closures
- flight suspensions to/from certain destinations, and in some cases, all destinations
- suspensions or reductions of other international transportation options
Additional restrictions can be imposed suddenly. Airlines can also suspend or reduce flights without notice. Your travel plans may be severely disrupted, making it difficult for you to return home. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance related to changes to your travel plans.
- Monitor the media for the latest information
- Contact your airline or tour operator to determine if the situation will disrupt your travel plans
- Contact the nearest foreign diplomatic office for information on destination-specific restrictions
Foreign Representatives in Canada – Global Affairs Canada
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from the Bulgarian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.
Passport
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.
Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Regular Canadian passport
Your passport must be valid 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave Bulgaria.
Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.
Other travel documents
Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest diplomatic mission for your destination.
Useful links
Health Insurance
You must present proof of medical insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage) that’s valid in the European Union (EU) and covers the costs of emergency medical care and evacuation.
Visas
Tourist visa: Not required for stays of fewer than 90 days in any 180-day period
Business visa: Not required for stays of fewer than 90 days in any 180-day period
Student visa: Not required for stays of fewer than 90 days in any 180-day period
You must obtain a visa before travelling if you plan to stay in Bulgaria for more than 90 days. Bulgaria doesn’t grant extensions once you’re in the country, except in cases of emergency or marriage to a Bulgarian citizen.
Other entry requirements
Upon entry, you may have to show proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay, as well as documents verifying your return or onward travel plans.
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
Children and travel
Bulgarian authorities may consider a child born to a Bulgarian parent to be a Bulgarian citizen, even if the child was born in Canada and has a Canadian passport.
Accordingly, children under 18 may only leave Bulgaria when accompanied by both parents or with the consent of both parents. The absentee parent(s) must provide a statement of parental consent to travel, notarized by Bulgarian authorities. You or your child must present this consent form to the authorities upon exiting Bulgaria.
Furthermore, if you’re a single parent or the parent of a child travelling alone, you should contact the Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Canada before travelling, to ensure that your child meets current entry and exit requirements. These may change without notice.
Useful links
Health
Health
- Pandemic COVID-19 all countries: avoid non-essential travel outside Canada - April 22, 2021
- Global Measles Notice - July 23, 2019
Vaccines
Routine Vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccines, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.
Some of these vaccines include: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.
Vaccines to Consider
You may be at risk for these vaccine-preventable diseases while travelling in this country. Talk to your travel health professional about which ones are right for you.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a disease of the liver spread through contaminated food and water or contact with an infected person. All those travelling to regions with a risk of hepatitis A infection should get vaccinated.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Travellers who may be exposed (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) should get vaccinated.
Influenza
Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Get the flu shot.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.
Rabies
Rabies is a deadly illness spread to humans through a bite, scratch or lick from an infected animal. Vaccination should be considered for travellers going to areas where rabies exists and who have a high risk of exposure (e.g., are children, have an occupational risk, or in close contact with animals, including free roaming dogs in communities).
Tick-borne encephalitis
Risk
- Tick-borne encephalitis is present in some areas of this country.
- It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord).
- It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or when you consume unpasteurized milk products.
Recommendation
- Vaccination should be considered for those who may be exposed to ticks during outdoor activities.
- A vaccine against TBE does exist but is only available in countries where the disease is present.
- Learn more on what you can do to prevent tick-borne encephalitis (TBE)?
Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
Risk
- There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.
Country Entry Requirement*
- Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.
Recommendation
- Vaccination is not recommended.
About Yellow Fever
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.
Food/Water
Food and Water-borne Diseases
Travellers to any destination in the world can develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or food.
In some areas in Eastern Europe, food and water can also carry diseases like hepatitis A. Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in Eastern Europe. When in doubt, remember…boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Travellers' diarrhea
- Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
- Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.
- The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.
Insects
Insects and Illness
In some areas in Eastern Europe, certain insects carry and spread diseases like Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, Lyme disease, tick-borne encephalitis, and West Nile virus.
Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.
Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever
Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever is a viral disease that typically causes fever, bleeding under the skin, and pain. Risk is generally low for most travellers. It is spread to humans though contact with infected animal blood or bodily fluids, or from a tick bite. Protect yourself from tick bites and avoid animals. There is no vaccine available for Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever.
Malaria
Malaria
There is no risk of malaria in this country.
Animals
Animals and Illness
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, snakes, rodents, and bats. Certain infections found in Eastern Europe, like rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.
Person-to-Person
Person-to-Person Infections
Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, the flu and other illnesses.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through blood and bodily fluids; practise safer sex.
Medical services and facilities
COVID-19 - Testing facilities
Consult the following links to find out where you can get a COVID-19 test:
Local COVID-19 testing facilities - Government of Bulgaria (in Bulgarian only)
Health care is inadequate. Private hospitals and clinics located in cities are often better staffed and equipped than public or rural facilities. Cash payment is required at time of service.
Medical evacuation can be very expensive and you may need it in case of serious illness or injury. Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Keep in Mind...
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.
Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.
Laws and culture
Laws & culture
You must abide by local laws.
Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.
Canada and Bulgaria are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons (Council of Europe). This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Bulgaria to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Bulgarian authorities.
Identification
- Always carry photo identification, such as a passport
- Keep a photocopy in a safe location in case of loss or seizure.
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Bulgaria.
If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Bulgaria, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.
General information for travellers with dual citizenship
Illegal activities
Drugs
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.
Face covering
It’s illegal to wear clothing or masks that partially or completely cover the face in public places. Failure to comply can result in arrest and heavy fines.
Photography
It’s illegal to photograph military installations.
Driving
Drinking and driving
Penalties for drinking and driving are severe.
The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. If a police officer suspects you of drinking and driving, they could confiscate your driver’s licence on the spot and detain you. If you’re convicted, you can expect heavy fines and a possible jail sentence.
Driver’s licence
You can drive with a Canadian driver’s licence for up to 90 days after your arrival. You must carry an international driving permit for longer stays.
More about the International Driving Permit
Driving laws in Bulgaria
- You must possess a vignette or highway permit to travel on Bulgarian roads. You can purchase this electronic vignette at ports, border points, post offices and large gas stations
- Always drive with your headlights on
- Winter tires are mandatory during winter months
- All vehicle occupants must wear a seatbelt
- Children under 10 may ride in the front passenger seat if they’re secured in a child car seat and the airbag has been disabled
- It’s illegal to use a cellular telephone while driving, unless the phone includes a hands-free device
- You must carry a fire extinguisher, first aid kit and warning triangle in your car, as well as a reflective vest. You must always wear this vest when leaving a vehicle that is stranded or involved in an accident
- Carry all related documents, such as ownership, registration and proof of Bulgarian car insurance, in your vehicle
Follow speed limits on all roads. Police conduct frequent checks and may collect fines on the spot. Depending on the offence, they may also confiscate your driver’s licence at the scene.
LGBTQ2 travellers
Although the laws of Bulgaria don’t prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex, homosexuality isn’t socially tolerated.
General safety information and advice for LGBTQ2 travellers abroad
Money
The currency in Bulgaria is the lev (BGN).
Bulgaria’s economy is primarily cash-based. Most businesses also accept euros and major credit cards. ATMs are widely available. The United Bulgarian Bank in Sofia can process international money transfers.
If you’re carrying more than €10,000 or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs upon your entry or exit to the European Union. The sum can be in cash, cheque, money order, traveller’s cheque or any other convertible asset.
This doesn’t apply if you’re travelling within the EU or in transit to a non-EU country.
More information about cash controls - European Commission
Natural disasters and climate
Natural disasters & climate
Earthquakes
Bulgaria is located in an active seismic zone.
Flooding
Bulgaria is prone to flooding after heavy rains. Flooding is often localized, but widespread flooding has occurred in the past. Consult Bulgaria’s National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology for information and flooding alerts.
Avalanches
In winter, there’s a risk of avalanches in mountainous regions. This risk increases when temperatures rise rapidly after a particularly harsh winter. Extreme weather can also cause landslides.
Wildfires
In the summer and early fall, there’s a risk of wildfires.
Assistance
Assistance
Local services
Emergency services
For emergency assistance, dial 112.
Consular assistance
Sofia - Consulate of Canada
Bucharest - Embassy of Canada
For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Romania in Bucharest and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.
The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.
If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
Learn more about consular services.