Travel insurance when travelling to Bulgaria

NAME: Axel Strauss
DATE: 04/02/2025

Picture yourself surrounded by ancient history, breathtaking mountains, and beautiful beaches bathed in the warm glow of the Black Sea. Well, then you might be picturing yourself in Bulgaria! And it’s no wonder. In fact, along with being one of the oldest nations in Europe, Bulgaria today welcomes an average of about 10 million international visitors — i.e., nearly double its population — year after year. All of them eager to explore its natural beauty, modern metropolises, and rich cultural and historical tapestry. Oh, and the yogurt is really good too.

The logistics of traveling to and from this Balkan Peninsula gem, meanwhile, have undergone a few changes recently — visa-wise, that is. But whether you need a visa or not — travel insurance for Bulgaria is always a wise decision. And AXA can tell you why below.

• Is Bulgaria a Schengen country?
• Do I need a Schengen visa to enter Bulgaria?
• Is travel insurance mandatory for Bulgaria?
• Why choose AXA Schengen travel insurance for Bulgaria?
• What travel insurance options does AXA offer for Bulgaria?
• What should I do if I am injured or ill while in Bulgaria?
• What else should I know when prepping for my trip to Bulgaria?

Is Bulgaria a Schengen country?

Yes. That is, some nine months after Bulgaria’s (and neighboring Romania's) partial accession to the Schengen back in 2024, the millennia-old nation has been fully integrated into the Schengen Zone as of January 1st, 2025.

This means that Bulgaria now enjoys the same lifted border restrictions as its dozens of neighboring Schengen countries. Whereas, on the other hand — most non-Schengen (and/or non-European Union) travelers hoping to visit will now likely need to have a Bulgarian Schengen visa to cross its borders.

Moreover, to be granted that visa, you’re going to need to have the proper Schengen travel insurance (but don’t worry — more on that in a sec!).

Do I need a Schengen visa to enter Bulgaria?

Now, whether or not you need a Schengen visa — for Bulgaria, Romania, or any other Schengen nation — will mostly depend on your passport. And here's a quick breakdown of how that works:

Who does not need a Schengen visa for Bulgaria (for stays of less than 90 days)?

You won't need a Bulgarian Schengen visa if you're a citizen of:

-the Schengen area and/or the European Union*

- Australia, Brazil, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, Macao, Mexico, Taiwan, the U.K., the U.S., and roughly 50 more non-EU countries and territories that have signed visa exemption agreements with the EU.

*PRO-TIPS: AXA can tell you more about the tricky but important differences between Europe, the European Union, the EEA, and the Schengen Area — as well as the remaining European non-Schengen countries as of 2025.

Who needs a Schengen visa to enter Bulgaria?

However, you will need that Bulgarian Schengen visa if you’re a passport holder from a country that has not signed a visa waiver agreement with the EU — such as any nation in Africa, most of the ones in Asia and the Middle East, and over a hundred nations total worldwide.

PRO-TIPS:

The European Commission provides full lists of countries whose citizens are and are not exempt from a visa.

But AXA can also help you figure out who needs a Schengen visa in no time.

And if you do, we can even guide you through the process of applying specifically for a Schengen visa to Bulgaria, what different types of Schengen visa there are, Schengen visa costs, and more (so click around — and thank us later!).

Is travel insurance mandatory for Bulgaria?

And the answer to that, in turn, depends on your Schengen visa situation — as discussed above.

That is, if you need a Schengen visa — then travel insurance for Bulgaria is indeed mandatory. Moreover, to be eligible for that visa, your insurance plan should meet the following criteria: 

-be purchased from an insurance company validated by the consular authorities of all Schengen countries;

-have a minimum coverage of €30,000 (in case of medical care, hospitalization, and/or medical repatriation);

-be accepted by all countries within the Schengen zone;

-be valid for the entire duration of your trip/stay.

I don’t need a Schengen Visa. Do I still need travel insurance?

Technically, no — travel insurance isn't mandatory in Bulgaria if you don't require a Schengen visa. Still, unexpected situations can arise anywhere, and prioritizing your well-being is key.

Bulgaria boasts stunning mountains, beautiful beaches, rich history, amazing food, and much much more to discover — for every type of traveler. And while the country is generally safe, any trip abroad can come with a few surprises — be it in the Schengen or anywhere else.

So whether you’re exploring ancient ruins like the Rose Valley or the Thracian tombs or simply indulging in some delicious Bulgarian cuisine and Rakia (i.e., a strong local spirit) — there's, unfortunately, always a chance of needing medical attention and/or support.

Moreover, medical costs abroad can be high. Plus navigating the Bulgarian healthcare system might prove challenging — given the language barrier.* 

*BONUS PRO-TIP: Especially when a nod means “no” and a shake of the head means “yes” — as they do in Bulgaria.

Having the proper travel insurance, meanwhile, ensures you're looked after 24/7 — from sightseeing in Sofia to relaxing on the sunny Black Sea coast to everything in between.

Why choose AXA Schengen travel insurance for Bulgaria?

And there are countless reasons why AXA is your go-to to guarantee a legal, safe,and affordable trip.

For one, if you do need that Bulgarian Schengen visa, each AXA plan meets all the requirements above for being granted one.

Not only that, but if your visa is denied (which, of course, we hope it isn’t), our plans are refundable in most cases. We’ll only ask that you provide an official explanation — that is, from the relevant Bulgarian embassy, consulate, or visa application center — as to why it was refused.

Plus, visa or not, our plans require no medical exam, have no age limit, and have zero deductibles. All this while offering:

-Up to €100,000 coverage in medical expenses;

-Medical repatriation & transport (including in case of death);

-Up to 180 days of coverage;

-Coverage in all Schengen and all European Union countries; + the U.K. — depending on the chosen plan;

-24/7 assistance;

-And free Video and Phone Medical Consultations in English, French, and a number of other languages;

And, finally, purchasing an AXA plan is quick and easy — and can be done online in a matter of minutes.

Meanwhile, AXA’s travel insurance certificate — emailed to you upon purchase — can be instantly downloaded (and/or printed) online too. And said certificate is accepted by all Bulgarian consulates, embassies, and/or visa application centers around the world.

What travel insurance options does AXA offer for Bulgaria?

And now here’s a quick overview of the three ways AXA can help keep you and your family safe and worry-free while in Bulgaria:

1. AXA’s Low-Cost travel insurance is perfect for those traveling on a budget. As our most basic coverage, it meets Schengen visa requirements, covers up to €30,000 in medical expenses (along with hospitalization and repatriation, including in case of death), and covers you throughout Bulgaria and all the other Schengen countries — as well as in the European microstates of Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City.
2. Meanwhile, our Europe Travel plan is ideal if you’re traveling with family, looking to explore even more of Europe, and/or are the more adventurous type. While also meeting all the Schengen visa requirements, it covers medical expenses of up to €100,000, offers additional benefits — such as protection for lost documents and/or valuables — and covers you in all Schengen countries, the European microstates above, all EU member states, and the U.K.
3. And, finally, our Multi-Trip option is perfect for you if you’re a frequent traveler, travel for business, and/or are applying for a multi-entry Schengen visa. Because — while providing all the benefits above — it covers you for an entire year

In short, before you book that ticket for one of the Schengen’s latest additions, take a minute to
compare AXA’s different options and get a free AXA quote too.

What should I do if I am injured or ill while in Bulgaria?

If you experience any type of medical emergency during your Bulgarian adventure, AXA is here to help.

Simply contact our AXA call center (PRO-TIP: Don’t worry, the number will also be provided with your insurance policy — so make sure you save it!).

Our medical assistance professionals are available 24/7 to support you, answer your questions, and guide you through any situation — no matter where you are in Bulgaria. They can also help locate a medical center best suited to your needs and/or closest to your location.

What to Provide When Contacting AXA's Call Center

IMPORTANT: When contacting AXA's 24/7 call center, be sure to have the following information ready:

-Your policy number (starting with "SCH");

-Your contact information (including phone number and local contact details, if applicable);

-Your dossier number (provided during your first call).

PRO-TIP: Keep copies of any medical bills or receipts, ensure your phone is charged, and remember — AXA got your back.

List of Emergency Numbers in Bulgaria

And along with AXA, here’s a list of Bulgarian emergency numbers to keep handy during your trip:

-General Emergency (for all of the EU — Bulgaria included): 112

-Ambulance: 150

-Fire Department: 160

-Police: 166

-National Emergency Service: 112 (alternative for all emergencies)

What else should I know when prepping for my trip to Bulgaria?

With your AXA travel insurance in place, you're all set to discover Bulgaria's rich history, stunning scenery, mouthwatering cuisine, and vibrant culture with ease and peace of mind. But here are some additional details to consider for a smooth and enjoyable trip:

Bulgarian Currency

This part is important! While Bulgaria has been a member of the European Union since 2007 (and, — as of 2025 — the Schengen), it is not a member of the eurozone. And that means that the Bulgarian Lev (BGN) — not the Euro — is the official currency.

So while some places — especially the touristy ones — will accept Euros, we recommend having plenty of Leva on hand (especially in the not-so-touristy places). ATMs and exchange centers are widely available in major cities and tourist areas. As of early 2025, the exchange rate* for the Bulgarian Lev (BGN):

1 BGN = approximately 0.51 Euros (EUR) = approximately 0.55 US Dollars (USD).

*But double-check with Google before you take off.

General Safety in Bulgaria

Bulgaria boasts a very low crime rate, making it a generally safe destination. However — as with all tourist destinations — staying vigilant in crowded areas and on public transportation is vital. Keep an eye on your belongings, avoid carrying excessive cash (Leva or other), and have those emergency numbers handy (and your phone charged!).

Bulgarian Public Transportation

Bulgaria offers a well-developed public transportation system for both short and long distances. Buses are common in most cities, with major cities like Sofia having extensive networks operated by public transport companies. The Bulgarian State Railways website BDZ provides extensive train schedules and routes throughout the country, for example (with online ticket booking available). While sofiatraffic.bg is a great resource for getting around the capital (i.e.Sofia). For buses, tickets can usually be purchased at vending machines or directly on board (but exact change is recommended).

PRO-TIP: And for a charming, old-school Eastern European experience, hop on a trolleybus — these operate similarly to buses in some larger cities like Sofia and Plovdiv.

Driving in Bulgaria

If you plan to explore Bulgaria by car, a valid driver's license from your home country is sufficient for up to three months. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not mandatory but recommended for additional identification purposes.

Ride-hailing apps like Bolt and Uber are also readily available in most Bulgarian cities.

PRO-TIP: Bulgaria follows standard European road rules. Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers, and the legal alcohol limit is 0.5 BAC. Be mindful of speed limits, which vary depending on the road type. Pay close attention to parking signs in city centers, as many areas require paid parking tickets or parking discs. Free parking zones are often marked with a blue sign with a white "P."

Weather in Bulgaria

Bulgaria experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are generally warm and sunny, with average highs around 27°C (81°F) — i.e., perfect for enjoying those beaches along the Black Sea coast.

Spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures for exploring and even sunbathing too. The winters, however, can get chilly — especially in mountainous areas — with average lows around -3°C (27°F).

Either way, with most European weather being unpredictable these days, packing layers is key year-round — as well as waterproof gear if you plan some outdoor adventures.

Bulgarian Opening Hours

Most shops in Bulgaria operate from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm on weekdays and shorter hours on Saturdays (typically until 4:00 pm). Many shops are closed on Sundays — especially in the smaller towns. However, larger shopping centers in major cities and tourist areas may have extended hours, and often remain open on Sundays too.

Restaurants in Bulgaria

Bulgarian restaurants typically open for lunch around noon to 3:00 pm, and for dinner from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm. And with one more million visitors than its entire population annually, reservations are a good call — especially during weekends and peak tourist season (i.e., July-August). Some restaurants close between lunch and dinner, so checking opening hours in advance is a good call too.

Bulgarian cuisine is a delightful blend of Mediterranean and Slavic influences, offering a variety of fresh and flavorful dishes.

THREE PRO FOOD TIPS:

And, finally, on that note, here are some must-try dishes recommended by the locals:

Banitsa: A simple but delicious flaky pastry filled with cheese and/or eggs.

Moussaka: A mouth-watering, hearty casserole layered with ground meat, eggplant, potatoes, and a creamy bechamel sauce.

Shopska Salata: This refreshing salad with chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, peppers, and crumbled white cheese is a national staple.

RELATED ARTICLES:

• How to choose the best Schengen travel insurance
• Schengen visa requirements
• Schengen visa validity

FAQ

Can my Schengen visa be extended?

Yes, but only in exceptional cases. AXA can tell you more about Schengen visa extension too.

Can I work or study in Bulgaria with a tourist visa?

No. The tourist (or Type C) allows visitors to enter the Schengen zone for a short business trip, a holiday, or to visit family members. However, it cannot be converted into a work or study permit.

Can I use my European health insurance card in Bulgaria?

Yes, your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) will work in Bulgaria. Bulgaria is a member of the European Union and the EHIC system — which means, with your EHIC, you're entitled to medically necessary treatment on the same terms as Bulgarian citizens.
IMPORTANT NOTE: However, the EHIC does not cover repatriation or medical care in private practice — just one more reason why proper travel insurance is your best bet