Current situation - Covid-19 in Sofia and Bulgaria

The safety and health of Sofia's residents and guests are our main priority!

On this page you will find information about the situation in Sofia and Bulgaria regarding the Covid-19 pandemic.

ALL COVID-19 RELATED TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS ARE LIFTED

As of 1 May 2022 all COVID-19 related travel restrictions are lifted. From this date on, all the arriving passengers will no longer be obliged to provide COVID-19 related documents. (i.e., COVID-19 vaccination certificates, COVID-19 recovery certificates, COVID-19 medical examinations) in order for them to be allowed to enter the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria.

As of April 13, 2022, people arriving in Bulgaria from North Macedonia, Turkey, Romania, Serbia, Hungary, Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Israel and Egypt will no longer be required to show an EU Digital COVID Certificate for vaccination, disease or testing, or similar documents containing the same data. You can read the Order of Minister of Health here.

As of April 1 2022, the temporary anti-epidemic measures fall away. These include wearing protective face masks in closed public places, observing physical distance, and restrictions on the number of people visiting indoor places at the same time. Also abolished as of that date are restrictions on in-person learning at universities, bans on visits to hospitals and social services; and the requirement for employers to have no more than 50 per cent of staff physically present at the workplace.

Health authorities still “strongly recommend” for people to wear protective masks on public transport, in hospitals, in poorly ventilated areas, when large groups of people congregate outdoors, and keep physical distance.

As of April 1, 2022, the colour zones, according to which the order of entry into Bulgaria was determined until now, will be abolished. From 01.04.2022 until 15.05.2022 all persons, regardless of the country from which they arrive, are admitted to the territory of the country upon presentation of a valid EU digital COVID certificate of vaccination, recovery certificate or similar document containing the same data as the EU digital COVID certificate.

Persons who do not present at least one of the above-mentioned documents are allowed to enter the country and are placed under a 10-day quarantine. The quarantine may be lifted if the person takes a PCR or rapid antigen test within 72 hours of arrival in the country. In the event of a negative result, the person's quarantine shall be deemed to have been suspended from the day the result is recorded in the National COVID-19 Information System.

This was ordered by the Minister of Health Prof. Asena Serbezova by her order issued on the basis of the Regulation on the conditions and procedure for border health control of the Republic of Bulgaria. You can read the order here.

As of March 21, 2022, the requirement for a "green certificate" for all activities and events in Bulgaria, is abolished.

Effective Thursday, February 17, 2022, the list of countries by color zone, according to which the order of entry into Bulgaria is determined, is updated. The full list of countries by colour zone can be found here

As of February 1, 2022, the following temporary anti-epidemic measures regarding the entry of persons arriving from other countries on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria are in force. Detailed information and a list of countries by zones can be found here

As of January 27, 2022, additional temporary anti-epidemic measures come into force in Sofia city

By orders of the Director of Sofia Regional Health Inspectorate the following restrictions are introduced:

Restriction of up to 50% in capacity/working area/number of persons in the establishments and activities of public health significance and in restaurants, gambling halls and places of entertainment
Restricted hours of operation from 06:00 to 22:00 for gaming halls, casinos and restaurants, night clubs and places of entertainment, including those situated in places of accommodation.
Group tourist trips (with organized transport) and group visits to tourist sites and camps on the territory of the Sofia City Region for persons under 18 years of age are suspended.

The full text of the orders can be found here and here

The entry rules for citizens of the Republic of North Macedonia, Israel, Turkey and Serbia are changed.

As of January 20, 2022, citizens of North Macedonia, Israel, Turkey and Serbia and members of their families arriving from an EU country, the European Economic Area, Switzerland, the UK and Northern Ireland , Israel, North Macedonia, Turkey and Serbia, which are red zone countries, are admitted to Bulgaria on presentation of a valid EU Digital Covid Certificate of vaccination or having had Covid-19, or similar document, along with a negative result of a PCR test done up to 72 hours before arriving in Bulgaria.

Also as of January 20, 2022, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Colombia, the Democratic Republic of Fiji, the Republic of Maldives, Sao Tome and Principe, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines are added to the "red zone" list. This was ordered by the Minister of Health, prof. Asena Serbezova with her order issued January 17, 2022. You can read the full text of the order here.

The Order reflects the recommendations and suggestions made by the tourism sector.

As of January 7, 2022 Bulgaria amends its rules for entry to the country

Persons arriving in the country from countries classified as a "red zone" are allowed to enter the country upon presentation of a valid EU digital COVID certificate of vaccination or recovery certificate, or similar document, together with a negative result of a PCR test carried out up to 72 hours before entry into the country. This was ordered by the Minister of Health, Prof. Asena Serbezova by her order issued January 5, 2022.

Bulgarian citizens and persons with permanent, long-term or continuous residence status in Bulgaria and their family members who do not present any of the above-mentioned documents (vaccination or recovery certificate, as well as a negative result of the PCR test) shall be admitted to the territory of the country and placed under a 10-day mandatory quarantine. The quarantine may not be set aside.

Bulgarian citizens and persons with permanent, long-term or continuous residence status and their family members who present only one of these documents shall also be placed under a 10-day quarantine, which may be set aside if the person presents a negative result of a PCR test carried out 72 hours after arrival in the country.

Also as of January 7, 2022 an updated list of countries by colour zone comes into force. Romania enters the "green zone". Austria, Hungary and Luxembourg are in the 'orange zone' from the same date. Argentina, the USA, Canada, Australia, Finland, Sweden, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Montenegro, Malta, etc. are in the red zone.

The full text of the order and the list of countries by colour zone can be found here.

BULGARIA EXTENDS STATE OF EMERGENCY FOR THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC TO MARCH 31, 2022

The Bulgarian government extended the COVID-19 emergency epidemic situation from 1 December 2021 to 31 March 2022.The extension of the epidemic emergency is aimed at limiting the spread of COVID-19.

With effect from 1 December 2021, (Order N РД-01-977/26.11.2021) the Minister for Health introduces anti-epidemic measures concerning the entry of persons arriving from other countries into the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria. Entry into Bulgaria will be carried out in accordance with an assessment of the prevalence of COVID-19 in the countries concerned, according to clearly defined criteria. The classification of countries as Green, Orange, and Red Zones, is based on COVID-19 risk levels . The list changes frequently, so please check the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Bulgarian Ministry of Health for the latest updates!

AS OF OCTOBER 21, 2021 NEW ANTI-COVID 19 MEASURES TAKE EFFECT IN BULGARIA. ‘GREEN CERTIFICATE’ REQUIRED FOR ADMISSION TO INDOOR PUBLIC PLACES

According to the order of Bulgaria’s caretaker Health Minister Stoicho Katsarov, all activities in indoor public places will require the public to show a “green certificate” for admission. The “green certificate” means an official document showing that the person has completed the vaccination cycle against Covid-19, has undergone the disease, or has had a negative result of a PCR (no older than 72 hours) or antigen (no older than 48 hours) test.

The indoor places covered by the measures include museums, galleries, cinemas, theatres, circus performances, concerts, festivals, conferences, congresses, seminars, team buildings, gyms, fitness centers, swimming pools, SPA centers, all restaurants, fast food establishments, cafes, shops in malls of more than 300 sq. m – with an exception for grocery shops, pharmacies and banks.

Green certificates will not be required to use public transport.

You can find the full text of the last order of the Bulgaria's caretaker Health Minister (Bulgarian only) here

From September 1, 2021 to November 30, 2021, entering Bulgaria is based on an assessment of the prevalence of COVID-19 in the respective countries by criteria and placement of the countries in color zones. (Order No. Rd-01-733/27.08.2021 of the Minister of Health).

Criteria for assessing the prevalence of COVID - 19 are:

14-day morbidity;
weekly positivity of the performed laboratory tests;
level of examination in the country;
identification of a variant of SARS-CoV-2 identified as a “worrying” variant;
lack of sufficient information.

The color zones are as follows:

GREEN ZONE;
ORANGE ZONE;
RED ZONE.

Persons arriving from countries in the Green Zone List:

Persons are admitted to the territory of the country upon presentation of a valid EU digital COVID certificate for vaccination, disease or testing, or a similar document containing the same data as the EU digital COVID certificate. In case of failure to provide such, the person shall be quarantined for 10 days in the home or other accommodation where he / she has indicated that he / she will reside, with a prescription issued by the director of the respective regional health inspectorate or his / her authorized Deputy Director. The quarantine may be revoked by providing by e-mail a document showing a negative result of a polymerase chain reaction test for the detection of COVID-19 carried out within 24 hours of entry into the territory of the country or by a rapid antigen test specified in Annex No. 2 of the Order. The prescription shall be revoked within 24 hours from the presentation of the document showing a negative result from the conducted examination.

Persons arriving from countries in the Orange Zone List:

A study of COVID-19 with a rapid antigen test is performed in at least 5 percent of the total entrants from orange zone countries.

Persons arriving from countries in the Red Zone List:

Only persons who are citizens of the EU, the EEA and the Confederation of Switzerland and members of their families who come from an EU Member State, the EEA and the Confederation of Switzerland are allowed on the territory of the country. The persons are allowed on the territory of the country upon presentation of a valid digital EU COVID certificate for vaccination, or certificate of recovery or a similar document together with a negative result from a test conducted up to 72 hours before entering the country by the method of polymerase chain reaction for COVID 19, certified by a valid EU digital COVID certificate for testing or a similar document containing the same data as the EU digital COVID certificate for testing. If they do not present the certificate, they are allowed to enter in Bulgaria after presenting a negative result from a test conducted up to 72 hours before entering the country by the method of polymerase chain reaction for COVID-19, certified by a valid EU digital COVID certificate for testing or a similar document containing the same data as the EU digital COVID certificate for testing and they shall be quarantined for a period of 10 days at home or in another place of accommodation, in which the person has indicated that he or she will reside.

As of September 29, 2021 – new list of the countries by color zones

Green Zone: The Republic of Poland; The Slovak Republic; Hungary; The Republic of Finland;; The Vatican City State; The Czech Republic; Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, Romania; Denmark; Italy; Spain; Malta, Sweden.

Orange Zone: All countries not included in the green and red zone

Red Zone: The Republic of India; The People's Republic of Bangladesh; The Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal; The Republic of the Union of Myanmar; The Kingdom of Bhutan; The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka; The Republic of Maldives; The Republic of South Africa; The Republic of Botswana; The United Republic of Tanzania; The Republic of Seychelles; The Republic of Namibia; The Republic of Zambia; The Sultanate of Oman; Malaysia; The Republic of Turkmenistan; The Republic of Tajikistan; The Kyrgyz Republic; Mongolia; The Republic of Colombia; The Republic of Chile; The Eastern Republic of Uruguay; The Argentine Republic; The Federative Republic of Brazil; The Republic of Paraguay; The Plurinational State of Bolivia; The Republic of Peru; The Republic of Suriname; The Republic of Panama; The Republic of Costa Rica; The Republic of Guatemala; Belize; The Republic of El Salvador; The Republic of Cuba; The Dominican Republic; The Republic of Cyprus; The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland; The Republic of Fiji; Georgia; The State of Israel; The Kingdom of Eswatini; The Islamic Republic of Iran; The Republic of North Macedonia; Montenegro; The Republic of Kosovo; The Republic of Kazakhstan; The United States of America; Saint Lucia; Тhe Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis; The Republic of Serbia; Palestine, The Republic of Lithuania.

The information is subject to update and supplementation depending on the development of the epidemic situation.

From September 1 st, 2021 to November 30 th, 2021, entering Bulgaria is based on an assessment of the prevalence of COVID-19 in the respective countries by criteria and placement of the countries in color zones. (Order No. Rd-01-733/27.08.2021 of the Minister of Health).

Criteria for assessing the prevalence of COVID - 19 are:

14-day morbidity;
weekly positivity of the performed laboratory tests;
level of examination in the country;
identification of a variant of SARS-CoV-2 identified as a “worrying” variant;
lack of sufficient information.

The color zones are as follows:

Green zone;
Orange zone;
Red zone.

Persons arriving by colour zones from the countries in the Republic of Bulgaria

Countries in the Green Zone:

Countries in the Orange Zone:

A study of COVID-19 with a rapid antigen test is performed in at least 5 percent of the total entrants from orange zone countries.

Countries in the Red Zone:

All countries, outside the European Union and the European Economic Area and the Confederation of Switzerland, which do not fall into the red zone, are considered to be orange zone countries.

INPORTANT INFORMATION:

Children from the age of 12 to 18 who arrive on the territory of the country from a country falling into the red zone are allowed upon presentation of a negative result from a polymerase chain reaction test for COVID-19 conducted up to 72 hours before entering the country, certified by a valid EU digital COVID test certificate or a similar document containing the same data as the EU digital COVID test certificate. If they do not present such a document, they shall be placed under quarantine for a period of 10 days.

Citizens of the Republic of Romania may enter on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria without presenting a document showing a negative result from a polymerase chain reaction test performed or a negative result from a rapid antigen test. Children up to 12 years of age, may enter on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria without presenting a document showing a negative result from a polymerase chain reaction test performed or a negative result from a rapid antigen test, regardless of the zone in which the country from which they arrive falls in.

List of countries according to Annex No. 1, to items I, 3 of Order № RD-01-733/27.08.2021 of the Minister of Health.

Green Zone: The Republic of Austria; The Republic of Poland; The Slovak Republic; Hungary; The Republic of Finland; The Kingdom of Norway; The Vatican City State; The Czech Republic; Тhe Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. Romania;

Orange Zone: All countries outside the green and red zone

Red Zone: The Republic of India; The People's Republic of Bangladesh; The Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal; The Republic of the Union of Myanmar; The Kingdom of Bhutan; The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka; The Republic of Maldives; The Republic of South Africa; The Republic of Botswana; The United Republic of Tanzania; The Republic of Seychelles; The Republic of Namibia; The Republic of Zambia; The Sultanate of Oman; Malaysia; The Republic of Turkmenistan; The Republic of Tajikistan; The Kyrgyz Republic; Mongolia; The Republic of Colombia; The Republic of Chile; The Eastern Republic of Uruguay; The Argentine Republic; The Federative Republic of Brazil; The Republic of Paraguay; The Plurinational State of Bolivia; The Republic of Peru; The Republic of Suriname; The Republic of Panama; The Republic of Costa Rica; The Republic of Guatemala; Belize; The Republic of El Salvador; The Republic of Cuba; The Dominican Republic; The Republic of Cyprus; The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland; The Republic of Fiji; Georgia; The State of Israel; The Kingdom of Eswatini; The Islamic Republic of Iran; The Republic of North Macedonia; Montenegro; The Republic of Kosovo; The Republic of Kazakhstan; The United States of America; Saint Lucia; Тhe Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis; The Republic of Ireland; The information is subject to update and supplementation depending on the development of the epidemic situation.

For more information, you can visit:

The official website of the European Union for European travel and holidays - https://reopen.europa.eu/en

Bulgarian Unified Information Portal - https://coronavirus.bg-(Bulgarian only)

The websites of the Bulgarian Ministry of Tourism - https://www.tourism.government.bg/en/kategorii/covid-19

Practical information for tourists – Covid-19 – https://bulgariatravel.org/en/useful/practical-information-for-tourists-covid-19/

The website of the Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs: - https://www.mfa.bg/en/

The website of the Sofia Regional Health Inspectorate - https://srzi.bg/en-(Bulgarian only)

The website of the Bulgarian Ministry of Health: - https://www.mh.government.bg/en/-(Bulgarian only)

The website of the Sofia Municipality: - www.sofia.bg/covid-19-(Bulgarian only)

From August 18, 2021 to August 31, 2021, entering Bulgaria is based on an assessment of the prevalence of COVID-19 in the respective countries by criteria and placement of the countries in color zones. (Order No. Rd--01-701 / 13.08.2021 of the Minister of Health).

Criteria for assessing the prevalence of COVID - 19 are:

14-day morbidity;
weekly positivity of the performed laboratory tests;
level of examination in the country;
identification of a variant of SARS-CoV-2 identified as a “worrying” variant;
lack of sufficient information.

The color zones are as follows:

Green zone;
Orange zone;
Red zone.

Persons arriving by colour zones from the countries in the Republic of Bulgaria

Countries in the Green Zone:

Countries in the Orange Zone:

Persons are admitted to the territory of the country only upon presentation of a valid EU digital COVID certificate for vaccination, disease or testing, or a similar document containing the same data as the EU digital COVID certificate. A study of COVID-19 with a rapid antigen test is performed in at least 5 percent of the total entrants from orange zone countries.

Countries in the Red Zone:

INPORTANT INFORMATION:

List of countries according to Annex No. 1, to items I, 3 of Order Rd--01- 701 / 13.08.2021 of the Minister of Health.

Green Zone: 1 Republic of Austria, Federal Republic of Germany, Republic of Estonia, Republic of Poland, the Slovak Republic, Hungary, the Republic of Finland, the Republic of Croatia, Italian Republic, Kingdom of Norway, Republic of San Marino, State of Vatican City, Czech Republic, Luxembourg and Romania.

Orange Zone: All countries outside the green and red zone

Red Zone: Republic of India, People's Republic of Bangladesh, Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal, Myanmar, Kingdom of Bhutan, Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, Republic of Maldives, Republic of South Africa, Republic of Botswana, United Republic of Tanzania, Republic of Seychelles, Republic of Namibia, Republic of Zambia, Sultanate of Oman, Malaysia, Turkmenistan, Republic of Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan Republic, Mongolia, Republic of Colombia, Republic of Chile, Eastern Republic of Uruguay, Republic of Argentina, Federative Republic of Brazil, Republic of Paraguay, Multinational State of Bolivia, Republic of Peru, Republic of Suriname, Republic of Panama, Republic of Costa Rica, Republic of Guatemala, Belize, Republic of El Salvador, The Republic of Cuba and the Dominican Republic, the Republic of Cyprus, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the Kingdom of Spain, Fiji, Georgia, Israel, The Kingdom of Eswatini and the Islamic Republic of Iran.

The information is subject to update and supplementation depending on the development of the epidemic situation.

From August 4 th, 2021 to August 31 st, 2021, entering Bulgaria is based on an assessment of the prevalence of COVID-19 in the respective countries by criteria and placement of the countries in color zones. (Order No. Rd-01-673/02.08.2021 of the Minister of Health)

Criteria for assessing the prevalence of COVID - 19 are:

14-day morbidity;
weekly positivity of the performed laboratory tests;
level of examination in the country;
identification of a variant of SARS-CoV-2 identified as a “worrying” variant;
lack of sufficient information.

The color zones are as follows:

Green zone;
Orange zone;
Red zone.

Persons arriving by colour zones from the countries in the Republic of Bulgaria

Countries in the Green Zone

Countries in the Orange Zone:

Countries in the Red Zone:

All countries, outside the European Union and the European Economic Area and the Confederation of Switzerland, which do not fall into the red zone, are considered to be orange zone countries.

INPORTANT INFORMATION:

Children up to 12 years of age, may enter on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria without presenting a document showing a negative result from a polymerase chain reaction test performed or a negative result from a rapid antigen test, regardless of the zone in which the country from which they arrive falls in.

List of countries according to Annex No. 1, to items I, 3 of Order № RD-01-645/28.07.2021 of the Minister of Health

Green Zone:

The Republic of Austria; The Federal Republic of Germany; The Republic of Estonia; The Republic of Lithuania; The Republic of Poland; The Slovak Republic; Hungary; The Republic of Finland; The Republic of Croatia; The Kingdom of Denmark; The Italian Republic; The Republic of Slovenia; The Kingdom of Norway; The Republic of San Marino; The Vatican City State; The Confederation of Switzerland; The Czech Republic; The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.

Orange Zone:

All countries outside the green and red zone

Red Zone:

The Republic of India; The People's Republic of Bangladesh; The Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal; The Republic of the Union of Myanmar; The Kingdom of Bhutan; The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka; The Republic of Maldives; The Republic of South Africa; The Republic of Botswana; The United Republic of Tanzania; The Republic of Seychelles; The Republic of Namibia; The Republic of Zambia; The Sultanate of Oman; Malaysia; The Republic of Turkmenistan; The Republic of Tajikistan; The Kyrgyz Republic; Mongolia; The Republic of Colombia; The Republic of Chile; The Eastern Republic of Uruguay; The Argentine Republic; The Federative Republic of Brazil; The Republic of Paraguay; The Plurinational State of Bolivia; The Republic of Peru; The Republic of Suriname; The Republic of Panama; The Republic of Costa Rica; The Republic of Guatemala; Belize; The Republic of El Salvador; The Republic of Cuba; The Dominican Republic; The Kingdom of Spain; The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland; The Republic of Fiji; The Republic of Cyprus; The Republic of Malta; The Principality of Andorra; Georgia. The Principality of Monaco.

The information is subject to update and supplementation depending on the development of the epidemic situation.

From July 29 th , 2021 to August 31 st , 2021, entering Bulgaria is based on an assessment of the prevalence of COVID-19 in the respective countries by criteria and placement of the countries in color zones. (Order No. Rd-01-645/28.07.2021 of the Minister of Health)

Criteria for assessing the prevalence of COVID - 19 are:

14-day morbidity;
weekly positivity of the performed laboratory tests;
level of examination in the country;
identification of a variant of SARS-CoV-2 identified as a “worrying” variant;
lack of sufficient information.

The color zones are as follows:

Green zone;
Orange zone;
Red zone.

Persons arriving by colour zones from the countries in the Republic of Bulgaria

Countries in the Green Zone

Persons are admitted to the territory of the country upon presentation of a valid EU digital COVID certificate for vaccination, disease or testing, or a similar document containing the same data as the EU digital COVID certificate. In case of failure to provide such, the person shall be quarantined for 10 days in the home or other accommodation where he / she has indicated that he / she will reside, with a prescription issued by the director of the respective regional health inspectorate or his / her authorized Deputy Director. The quarantine may be revoked by providing by e-mail a document showing a negative result of a polymerase chain reaction test for the detection of COVID-19 carried out within 24 hours of entry into the territory of the country or by a rapid antigen test specified in Annex No. 2 of the Order. The prescription shall be revoked within 24 hours from the presentation of the document showing a negative result from the conducted examination.

Countries in the Orange Zone:

Persons are admitted to the territory of the country only upon presentation of a valid EU digital COVID certificate for vaccination, disease or testing, or a similar document containing the same data as the EU digital COVID certificate. A study of COVID-19 with a rapid antigen test is performed in at least 5 percent of the total entrants from orange zone countries.

Countries in the Red Zone:

Only persons who are citizens of the EU, the EEA and the Confederation of Switzerland and members of their families who come from an EU Member State, the EEA and the Confederation of Switzerland are allowed on the territory of the country. The persons are allowed on the territory of the country upon presentation of a valid digital EU COVID certificate for vaccination or a similar document containing the same data as the EU digital COVID certificate for vaccination and a negative result from a test conducted up to 72 hours before entering the country by the method of polymerase chain reaction for COVID 19, certified by a valid EU digital COVID certificate for testing or a similar document containing. If they do not present the certificate, they are allowed to enter in Bulgaria after presenting a negative result from a test conducted up to 72 hours before entering the country by the method of polymerase chain reaction for COVID-19, certified by a valid EU digital COVID certificate for testing or a similar document containing the same data as the EU digital COVID certificate for testing and they shall be quarantined for a period of 10 days at home or in another place of accommodation, in which the person has indicated that he or she will reside.

All countries, outside the European Union and the European Economic Area and the Confederation of Switzerland, which do not fall into the red zone, are considered to be orange zone countries.

INPORTANT INFORMATION:

List of countries according to Annex No. 1, to items I, 3 of Order № RD-01-645/28.07.2021 of the Minister of Health

Green Zone:

The Republic of Austria; The Federal Republic of Germany; The Republic of Estonia; Iceland; The Republic of Lithuania; The Republic of Poland; The Slovak Republic; Hungary; The Republic of Finland; The Republic of Croatia; The Kingdom of Denmark; The Italian Republic; The Republic of Slovenia; The French Republic; The Kingdom of Norway; The Republic of San Marino; The Vatican City State; The Confederation of Switzerland; The Chezh Republic; Romania.

Orange Zone:

All countries outside the green and red zone

Red Zone:

The Republic of India; The People's Republic of Bangladesh; The Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal; The Republic of the Union of Myanmar; The Kingdom of Bhutan; The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka; The Republic of Maldives; The Republic of South Africa; The Republic of Botswana; The United Republic of Tanzania; The Republic of Seychelles; The Republic of Namibia; The Republic of Zambia; The Republic of Tunisia; The Sultanate of Oman; Malaysia; The Republic of Turkmenistan; The Republic of Tajikistan; The Kyrgyz Republic; Mongolia; The Republic of Colombia; The Republic of Chile; The Eastern Republic of Uruguay; The Argentine Republic; The Federative Republic of Brazil; The Republic of Paraguay; The Plurinational State of Bolivia; The Republic of Peru; The Republic of Suriname; The Republic of Panama; The Republic of Costa Rica; The Republic of Guatemala; Belize; The Republic of El Salvador; The Republic of Cuba; The Dominican Republic; The Kingdom of Spain; The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland; The Republic of Fiji; The Emirate of Kuwait; The Republic of Cyprus; The Republic of Malta; The Principality of Andorra; The Netherlands; Georgia.

The list is subject to update and supplementation depending on the development of the epidemic situation.

From July 19 th, 2021 to July 31 st, entering Bulgaria is based on an assessment of the prevalence of COVID-19 in the respective countries by criteria and placement of the countries in color zones. (Order No. RD-01-597/16.07.2021 of the Minister of Health)

Criteria for assessing the prevalence of COVID - 19 are:

14-day morbidity;
weekly positivity of the performed laboratory tests;
level of examination in the country;
identification of a variant of SARS-CoV-2 identified as a “worrying” varia
lack of sufficient information.

Countries are classified in three colour zones. The measures applicable to travel to Bulgaria depend on the colour zone assigned to the country in question.

Green colour zone
Orange colour zone
Red colour zone

There are ways for entering the territory of Bulgaria to each of the three zone:

Variant 1: Temporary control measures for persons arriving from EU and EEA Member States and the Swiss Confederation, according to color zones:

Countries in the Green Zone

Countries in the Orange Zone:

Countries in the Red Zone:

Persons are not allowed on the territory of the country.

Variant 2: Temporary anti-epidemic measures for persons arriving from non-EU and EEA countries and the Swiss Confederation

All persons arriving from non-EU and EEA countries and the Swiss Confederation and not falling into the Red Zone are considered to arrive from orange zones and are admitted to the territory of the country only upon presentation of a valid EU digital COVID vaccination certificate. or for a study carried out, or of a similar document containing the same data as the EU digital COVID certificate.

INPORTANT INFORMATION:

Green Zone:

The Republic of Austria; The Federal Republic of Germany; The Republic of Estonia; Iceland; The Republic of Lithuania; The Grand Duchy of Luxembourg; The Republic of Malta; The Republic of Poland; The Slovak Republic; Hungary; The Republic of Finland; The Republic of Croatia; The Kingdom of Denmark; The Italian Republic; The Republic of Slovenia; The French Republic; The Kingdom of Norway; The Republic of San Marino; The Principality of Andorra; The Principality of Monaco; The Vatican City State; Czech Republic; Confederation of Switzerland;

Orange Zone:

All countries outside the green and red zone.

Red Zone:

The Republic of India; The People's Republic of Bangladesh; The Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal; The Republic of the Union of Myanmar; The Kingdom of Bhutan; The Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka; The Republic of Maldives; The Federative Republic of Brazil; The Republic of South Africa; The Republic of Botswana; The United Republic of Tanzania; The Republic of Seychelles; The Republic of Namibia; The Republic of Zambia; The Republic of Tunisia; The Sultanate of Oman; Malaysia; The Republic of Turkmenistan; The Republic of Tajikistan; The Kyrgyz Republic; Mongolia; The Republic of Colombia ;The Republic of Chile; The Eastern Republic of Uruguay; The Argentine Republic; The Republic of Paraguay; The Plurinational State of Bolivia; The Republic of Peru; The Republic of Suriname; The Republic of Panama; The Republic of Costa Rica; The Republic of Guatemala; Belize; The Republic of El Salvador; The Republic of Cuba; The Dominican Republic; The Kingdom of Spain; The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland; The Republic of Fiji; The Emirate of Kuwait; The Republic of Cyprus;

Countries with which the Republic of Bulgaria has reached an agreement on free passage on a reciprocal basis:

1. Romania;

Countries for which there is information about a significant negative change in the epidemic situation in the respective country or in its separate territories and specific control measures applied for the persons arriving from them:
1. The Russian Federation*
2. The Republic of Portugal*

*Arrivals are admitted to the territory of the country upon presentation of a valid EU digital COVID test certificate or similar document showing a negative result from a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19 conducted up to 72 hours before entry into the country, as from the date of the testing entered in the document.

The list is subject to update and supplementation depending on the development of the epidemic situation.

Bulgaria’s Health Minister has issued an order setting out the criteria for colour-coding countries according to their Covid-19 situation to decide whether arrivals from these countries may be allowed.

The new rules come into effect on July 1, dividing countries into green, orange or red zones.

There are five criteria for assessing the prevalence of Covid-19:

14-day morbidity;
weekly positivity of the laboratory tests performed;
level of research in the country
the detection of a variant of Covid-19 that has been identified as a matter of concern, and the fifth, whether there is a lack of sufficient or reliable information about the Covid-19 situation in the country.

Countries are classified in three colour zones. The measures applicable to travel to Bulgaria depend on the colour zone assigned to the country in question.

Green colour zone: regions or countries for which a low risk of infection has been identified.
Orange colour zone: regions or countries for which a moderately elevated risk of infection has been identified.
Red colour zone: regions or countries where individuals are at a high risk of infection

There are ways for entering the territory of Bulgaria to each of the three zone:

Variant 1: Temporary control measures for persons arriving from EU and EEA Member States and the Swiss Confederation, according to color zones:

Green Zone Countries:

Permitted on the territory of the country upon presentation of a valid EU digital COVID certificate for vaccination, for recovery from the illness or for conducted testing, or of a similar document containing the same data as the EU digital COVID certificate, such as: 4.1.1.in the absence of a valid EU digital COVID certificate or of a similar document containing the same data as the EU digital COVID certificate, the person shall be quarantined for 10 days at home or other accommodation where they have indicated that they will reside, with a recommendation issued by the Director of the respective Regional Health Inspectorate or a deputy director authorized by him; 4.1.2.the Director of the respective Regional Health Inspectorate may revoke the issued order for quarantine upon submission by e-mail of a document showing a negative result from a polymerase chain reaction test conducted within 24 hours of entering the country to prove COVID-19 or by a rapid antigen test as specified in Annex No 2. The recommendation shall be removed within 24 hours upon presentation of the document showing a negative test result.

Orange Zone Countries:

Permitted on the territory of the country only upon presentation of a valid EU digital COVID certificate for vaccination, for recovery from the illness or for conducted testing, or of a similar document containing the same data as the EU digital COVID certificate. At least 5 percent of all persons entering from orange-zone countries are ought to be tested for COVID-19 with a rapid antigen test.

Red Zone Countries:

Not permitted on the territory of the country.

Variant 2: Temporary anti-epidemic measures for persons arriving from non-EU and EEA countries and the Swiss Confederation

All persons arriving from non-EU and EEA countries and the Swiss Confederation and not falling under item 5.2. shall be considered to arrive from orange zones and are permitted to the territory of the country only upon presentation of a valid EU digital COVID vaccination certificate, for recovery from the illness or fora test conducted, or of a similar document containing the same data as the EU digital COVID certificate.

IMPORTANT!

Countries with which the Republic of Bulgaria has reached an agreement on free passage on a reciprocal basis: Romania, Czech Republic. Children up to 12 years of age, may enter on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria without presenting a document showing a negative result from a polymerase chain reaction test performed or a negative result from a rapid antigen test.

List of countries by color zones and countries with passing on a reciprocal basis

Green zone: Austria, Germany, Estonia, Iceland, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Finland, Croatia, Greece, Denmark, Italy, Slovenia, France, Norway, Republic of San Marino, Principality of Andorra, Principality of Monaco, Vatican City State.

Orange zone: All countries outside of the green and the red zone.

Red zone: India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Brazil, Republic of South Africa, Republic of Botswana, United Republic of Tanzania, Seychelles, Republic of Namibia, Republic of Zambia, Republic of Tunisia,, Oman, Malaysia, the Mongolian People’s Republic, the Republic of Colombia, the Republic of Chile, the Oriental Republic of Uruguay, the Republic of Argentina, the Federative Republic of Brazil, the Republic of Paraguay, the Plurinational State of Bolivia, the Republic of Peru, the Republic of Costa Rica, the Republic of Guatemala, Belize, the Republic of El Salvador, the Republic of Cuba and the Dominican Republic.

Those arriving from a green zone may enter Bulgaria on presentation of a valid EU Digital Covid Certificate of vaccination, having undergone the disease, or test result, or a similar document containing the same data as an EU Digital Covid Certficate.

If not presenting such documentation, the person must go into 10-day quarantine at home or at an address stated to the health inspectorate.

However, the head of the regional health inspectorate may lift this quarantine if the person e-mails a certificate showing a negative PCR or rapid antigen test. The quarantine must be lifted within 24 hours of the presentation of a negative test result.

Those arriving from an orange zone will be allowed into Bulgaria only on presentation of a valid EU Digital Covid Certificate or equivalent with the same data. At least five per cent of all entrants from orange zone countries must undergo rapid antigen tests, according to the order. Arrivals from red zone countries are banned.

The list of countries in each zone will be decided on the basis of information published by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, in the case of EU and EEA countries, and the World Health Organization and the Atlanta-based Center for Disease Control in the case of all other countries.

The list will be reviewed at least once a week and, if necessary, updated on Monday, and – in the event of a deterioration of the epidemic situation in the country concerned – may be updated more frequently. The updated list takes effect from midnight the following day. You can find the full text of the last order of the Bulgaria's Health Minister (Bulgarian only) HERE.

BULGARIA EXTENDS STATE OF EMERGENCY FOR THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC UNTIL JULY 31, 2021

IMPORTANT!

Currently Bulgaria is in the Green Zone on the map of the European Union, according to the colour code for the classification of regions, based on the COVID-19 epidemiological situation.

Czech Republic citizens, as well as Bulgarian citizens arriving in the Republic of Bulgaria from Czech Republic, do not need to provide a negative result from a PCR test or antigen test, or a document for completed vaccination course.

Children up to 5 years of age, may enter on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria without presenting a document showing a negative result from a polymerase chain reaction test performed or a negative result from a rapid antigen test.

FOR TOURISM PURPOSES, TOURISTS FROM 97 COUNTRIES CAN TRAVEL TO BULGARIA

As of June 16, 2021 till July 31, citizens of 97 countries can enter the territory of Bulgaria. The countries are divided in to two groups. There are different ways for entering the territory of Bulgaria to each of both groups.

Different ways for entering the territory of Bulgaria - Option № 1

by a document for a completed vaccination schedule against COVID-19 and an expiry of a 14-day period from the date of receiving the final dose.

by a document showing a positive result from a polymerase chain reaction test or a rapid antigen test for COVID-19 - for persons who have recovered from COVID-19 for the period from the 15th to the 180th day from the date of the test entered in the document.

by a document showing a negative result from a polymerase chain reaction test performed up to 72 hours before entry into the country or a negative result from a rapid antigen test performed up to 48 hours before entry into the country to detect COVID-19, as of the date of test entered in the document.

Based on Option № 1 tourists from the following countries can travel to Bulgaria: The Republic of Austria; The Kingdom of Netherlands; The Federal Republic of Germany; The Republic of Poland; The Hellenic Republic; The Kingdom of Denmark; The Republic of Estonia; The Slovak Republic; The Republic of Slovenia; Hungary; The Republic of Finland; The Republic of Cyprus; The French Republic; The Republic of Latvia; The Republic of Croatia; The Republic of Lithuania; The Portuguese Republic; The Grand Duchy of Luxemburg; Iceland; The Kingdom of Norway; The Swiss Confederation; The Principality of Liechtenstein; The Republic of San Marino; The Principality of Andorra; The Principality of Monaco; The Vatican City State; The Republic of Malta; The Italian Republic; The Kingdom of Spain; The Republic of Ireland; The Kingdom of Belgium; The Kingdom of Sweden; The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland; The Commonwealth of Australia; Canada; Georgia; Japan; New Zealand; The Republic of Rwanda; The Republic of Korea; The Kingdom of Thailand; The Eastern Republic of Uruguay; The United Arab Emirates; The Republic of Belarus; The Republic of Serbia; The Republic of Turkey; The Republic of Northern Macedonia; The Republic of Albania; Kosovo; Bosnia and Herzegovina; Montenegro; The Republic of Moldova; The State of Israel; The State of Kuwait; Ukraine; The United States of America; The People's Republic of China; The Russian Federation;

Different ways for entering the territory of Bulgaria - Option № 2

by a document for a completed vaccination schedule against COVID-19 and an expiry of a 14-day period from the date of receiving the final dose.

Based on Option № 2 tourists from the following countries can travel to Bulgaria: The Arab Republic of Egypt; The People's Democratic Republic of Algeria; The Republic of Tunisia; The Kingdom of Morocco; The Republic of Mali; The Republic of Niger; The Republic of Chad; The Republic of Sudan; The State of Eritrea; The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia; The Republic of Somalia; The Central African Republic; The Gabonese Republic; The Republic of the Congo; The Federal Republic of Nigeria; The Republic of Benin; The Togolese Republic; The Republic of Côte d'Ivoire; The Republic of Liberia; The Republic of Sierra Leone; The Republic of the Gambia; The Republic of Senegal; The Republic of Burkina Faso; The Republic of South Sudan; The Republic of Guinea; The Republic of Guinea-Bissau; The Republic of Madagascar; Cape Verde, Mauritius, Canary Islands, Comoros, Mayotte, Reunion, Madeira, Saint Helena, Seychelles, Sao Tome and Principe.

Updated on June 2, 2021

BULGARIA EXTENDS STATE OF EMERGENCY FOR THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC UNTIL JULY 31, 2021

IMPORTANT!

Citizens of the Republic of Romania and Bulgarian citizens arriving from the Republic of Romania may enter on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria without presenting a document showing a negative result from a polymerase chain reaction test performed or a negative result from a rapid antigen test. Children up to 5 years of age, may enter on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria without presenting a document showing a negative result from a polymerase chain reaction test performed or a negative result from a rapid antigen test.

FOR TOURISM PURPOSES, TOURISTS FROM 97 COUNTRIES CAN TRAVEL TO BULGARIA

As of June 1, 2021 till July 31, citizens of 97 countries can enter the territory of Bulgaria. The countries are divided in to two groups. There are different ways for entering the territory of Bulgaria to each of both groups.

Different ways for entering the territory of Bulgaria - Option № 1

by a document for a completed vaccination schedule against COVID-19 and an expiry of a 14-day period from the date of receiving the final dose.
by a document showing a positive result from a polymerase chain reaction test or a rapid antigen test for COVID-19 - for persons who have recovered from COVID-19 for the period from the 15th to the 180th day from the date of the test entered in the document.
by a document showing a negative result from a polymerase chain reaction test performed up to 72 hours before entry into the country or a negative result from a rapid antigen test performed up to 48 hours before entry into the country to detect COVID-19, as of the date of test entered in the document.

Based on Option № 1 tourists from the following countries can travel to Bulgaria: The Republic of Austria; The Kingdom of Netherlands; The Federal Republic of Germany; The Republic of Poland; The Hellenic Republic; The Kingdom of Denmark; The Republic of Estonia; The Slovak Republic; The Republic of Slovenia; Hungary; The Republic of Finland; The Republic of Cyprus; The French Republic; The Republic of Latvia; The Republic of Croatia; The Republic of Lithuania; The Czech Republic; The Portuguese Republic; The Grand Duchy of Luxemburg; Iceland; The Kingdom of Norway; The Swiss Confederation; The Principality of Liechtenstein; The Republic of San Marino; The Principality of Andorra; The Principality of Monaco; The Vatican City State; The Republic of Malta; The Italian Republic; The Kingdom of Spain; The Republic of Ireland; The Kingdom of Belgium; The Kingdom of Sweden; The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland; The Commonwealth of Australia; Canada; Georgia; Japan; New Zealand; The Republic of Rwanda; The Republic of Korea; The Kingdom of Thailand; The Eastern Republic of Uruguay; The United Arab Emirates; The Republic of Belarus; The Republic of Serbia; The Republic of Turkey; The Republic of Northern Macedonia; The Republic of Albania; Kosovo; Bosnia and Herzegovina; Montenegro; The Republic of Moldova; The State of Israel; The State of Kuwait; Ukraine; The United States of America; The People's Republic of China; The Russian Federation;

Different ways for entering the territory of Bulgaria - Option № 2

by a document for a completed vaccination schedule against COVID-19 and an expiry of a 14-day period from the date of receiving the final dose.
by a document showing a positive result from a polymerase chain reaction test or a rapid antigen test for COVID-19 - for persons who have recovered from COVID-19 for the period from the 15th to the 180th day from the date of the test entered in the document.

Based on Option № 2 tourists from the following countries can travel to Bulgaria: The Arab Republic of Egypt; The People's Democratic Republic of Algeria; The Republic of Tunisia; The Kingdom of Morocco; The Republic of Mali; The Republic of Niger; The Republic of Chad; The Republic of Sudan; The State of Eritrea; The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia; The Republic of Somalia; The Central African Republic; The Gabonese Republic; The Republic of the Congo; The Federal Republic of Nigeria; The Republic of Benin; The Togolese Republic; The Republic of Côte d'Ivoire; The Republic of Liberia; The Republic of Sierra Leone; The Republic of the Gambia; The Republic of Senegal; The Republic of Burkina Faso; The Republic of South Sudan; The Republic of Guinea; The Republic of Guinea-Bissau; The Republic of Madagascar; Cape Verde, Mauritius, Canary Islands, Comoros, Mayotte, Reunion, Madeira, Saint Helena, Seychelles, Sao Tome and Principe.

According new orders of the Bulgaria's Health Minister issued on April 29, 2021 the state of emergency in the country is extended to May 31, 2021.

As of May 1, 2021, all those entering the territory of Bulgaria, regardless of their citizenship, are allowed entry if they present one of the following documents:

A document that shows completed vaccination against the COVID-19 provided that at least 14 days have passed since the last dose of the vaccine was taken.
A certificate that shows a negative PCR test done no more than 72 hours before arrival or a fast antigen test done no more than 48 hours before arrival test result.
A document proving a past COVID infection result (positive PCR test or a rapid antigen test for the period from the 15th to the 180th day from the date of the test).

Those who fail to present the required document, will be placed in 10-day quarantine which may be called off upon presentation of a negative PCR or fast antigen test done no later than 24 hours after the entry in Bulgaria.

As of May 1, 2021, Bulgaria temporarily bans entry to all arrivals from India, Brazil, Bangladesh, and several other countries in Africa, including South Africa, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Namibia. All Bulgarian citizens entering the territory after staying in one of the countries that are prohibited entry must stay self-isolated for ten days, at home or at an adequate accommodation.

You can read the full text of the orders here (Bulgarian only)
https://www.mh.government.bg/media/filer_public/2021/04/29/zapoved_merki_29_04_2021.pdf
https://www.mh.government.bg/media/filer_public/2021/04/29/zapoved_ob6ti_merki_29_04_21.pdf

On April 8, 2021, the Bulgaria’s Health Minister issued an order regulating the anti-epidemic measures in Bulgaria for the period April 12 – 30, 2021.

As of April 12, 2021, restaurants re-open using up to 50 per cent of their capacity and limited working hours - from 6am to 11pm.

As of April 12, 2021, cultural and entertainment events (cinemas, theatres, circus performances, cultural festivals, concerts, stage events, museums, galleries, libraries, dance, creative and music classes) are allowed to proceed, provided that no more than 30 per cent of the capacity of the premises is used, physical distancing of at least 1.5 m is observed, and protective masks are worn.

As of April 16, 2021, all shops in shopping centers may open.

As of April 16, 2021, casinos and gambling halls may re-open, using no more than 50 per cent of their capacity.

As of April 29, 2021, discos, club bars, piano bars, variety bars and night bars may re-open, using no more than 50 per cent of their capacity.

You can find the full text of the Bulgaria's Health Minister (Bulgarian only) here: https://www.mh.government.bg/media/filer_public/2021/04/08/zapoved-rd-01-220-08-04-2021.pdf

As of April 1 the following changes to anti-epidemic measures take effect:

Cinemas, theatres, museums, galleries, libraries, circuses, dance and music classes may re-open, but may use no more than 30 per cent of the capacity of the premises.
Visits to fitness centers, gyms and clubs, swimming pools and complexes, spa and wellness centers, are allowed, using no more than 30 per cent of their capacity.
Visits to open-air areas of restaurants, such as terraces and gardens, are allowed, with restaurants’ working hours limited to 6am to 11pm.
At shopping malls, the only stores allowed to be open are food stores, medical facilities, pharmacies, drugstores, opticians, pet shops, banks, insurance offices, courier services, payment services, telecommunications companies’ shops, communication service providers, dry cleaners, motor vehicle services and car washes.
At food shops remains in force the “green corridor” between 8.30am and 10.30am, when only people older than 65 may be admitted.
Group tourist excursions with organized transport remain prohibited.
Open-air events such as fairs and festivals remain prohibited.
Discos, piano bars, variety bars and nightclubs, gambling halls and cas inos remain closed.
In-person congresses, seminars, competitions, and team buildings are prohibited.
Private occasions such as weddings, baptisms and funerals may be attended by no more than 15 people.
Collective sports events, whether training or competitive, involving people younger than 18, remain prohibited. An exception is allowed for sports people registered with sports federations.

You can find the full text of order №РД-01-197/31.03.2021 of the Bulgaria's Health Minister (Bulgarian only) here: https://www.mh.government.bg/media/filer_public/2021/03/31/zapoved-rd-01-197-31-03-2021.pdf

AS OF MARCH 22, 2021, RESTRICTIVE ANTI-COVID 19 MEASURES TAKE EFFECT AND REMAIN IN FORCE UNTIL MARCH 31, 2021. The Ministry of Health has ordered the following measures, effective from March 22 to March 31, 2021:

Group tourist trips, organized excursions and visits to tourist sites are suspended.
In-person classes are suspended for students from first to twelfth grade, college, and university. Kindergartens and children's centers are closed.
Visits to all restaurants, fast food establishments, cafes, and bars are suspended. Only take away and home deliveries are allowed. At hotels, owners must arrange for guests to be served in their rooms.
Establishment in shopping malls are closed with the exception of grocery stores, pharmacies, opticians, pet stores, banks, insurance company offices, and telecom operator's stores.
Gyms, fitness centers, cinemas, theaters, museums, galleries and concerts are closed.
Group celebrations with the presence of more than 15 people indoors and outdoors are not allowed.
Conferences, congresses, seminars, team buildings, exhibitions, and other public and cultural events are not allowed.
Group tours around the country are suspended.
Visits to gambling establishments and casinos are suspended.
Indoor and outdoor sport activities for amateurs are not permitted.
Grocery stores and pharmacies remain open. Between 8:30-10:30am only customers over the age of 65 are allowed.

You can find the full text of the last order of the Bulgaria's Health Minister (Bulgarian only) here: https://www.mh.government.bg/media/filer_public/2021/03/18/zapoved173.pdf

BULGARIA EXTENDS STATE OF EMERGENCY FOR THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC TO APRIL 30, 2021

According new orders of the Bulgaria's Health Minister issued on January 26 the state of emergency in the country is extended to April 30, 2021.

IMPORTANT!!! From January 29 to April 30, all those arriving in Bulgaria must present a negative PCR test for Covid-19, done no more than 72 hours before arriving in the country.

Bulgarian citizens and those with long-term or permanent residence in Bulgaria and members of their families who do not present such a document must go into 10-day quarantine. There are exemptions from the requirement, including for drivers of international buses, drivers of international lorries, crews of vessels and aircraft, border workers and those in transit through the country.

From February 1 to April 30, everyone in enclosed public places and public transport must wear A PROTECTIVE FACE MASK. The same rules apply to open public spaces, where crowding cannot be avoided. This means that it is no longer possible to use face shields or other means covering the nose and mouth instead of a mask. Exceptions to the face mask rule apply to customers of eating and drinking establishments, people doing sport, children up to six years of age, and people speaking at seminars, news conferences and similar events.

IMPORTANT! For the period of the epidemic situation in Bulgaria, until April 30, 2021, а single-trip travel card for lines of the ground transport in Sofia CANNOT BE BOUGHT from the drivers of the vehicles.

As of February 1, 2021

visits to cinemas and participation in creative, dance and music classes are allowed, provided that no more than 30 per cent of capacity is used and physical distancing is observed.
gyms may re-open, provided that no more than 50 per cent of the capacity of the premises is used.
shopping malls and shopping centers may re-open in full, while under-18s may visit them only if accompanied by a parent, guardian or other adult

Restaurants and bars remain closed until February 28, although deliveries and takeaways for the home or office are allowed. The exception for restaurants in places of accommodation remains in place – meaning that they are allowed to serve registered guests.

As of March 1, 2021

restaurants and coffee shops may open, but not discos, night clubs, piano bars, dance bars and night bars. The places that are allowed to open may not use more than 50 per cent of their capacity, there must be a distance of 1.5 meters between the backs of chairs on two adjacent tables and staff must wear protective masks.

You can find the full text of the orders of the Bulgaria's Health Minister (Bulgarian only) here: https://www.mh.government.bg/bg/normativni-aktove/zapovedi-pravilnitsi-instruktsii/

As of December 23, flights between Bulgaria and United Kingdom and North Ireland are restored. Everyone arriving in Bulgaria from the United Kingdom and North Ireland will be subject to antigen test and a mandatory 10-day quarantine.

As of January 1, 2021 people arriving in Bulgaria from the United Kingdom and North Ireland may enter the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria with the need to present a document showing a negative result from a polymerase chain reaction test to detect COVID-19 (PCR test) up to 72 hours before entering the territory of Bulgaria.

As of December 21 until January 31, flights between Bulgaria and UK are banned. Everyone arriving in Bulgaria from the United Kingdom and North Ireland – including Bulgarian citizens – will be subject to a mandatory 10-day quarantine. (Order№ РД-01-720/20.12.2020 of the Minister of Health).

AS OF NOVEMBER 27, 2020, NEW RESTRICTIVE ANTI-COVID-19 MEASURES TAKE EFFECT AND REMAIN IN FORCE UNTIL DECEMBER 21, 2020.

The Ministry of Health has ordered the following new measures, effective from November 27 to December 21, 2020:

In-person classes are suspended for students from first to twelfth grade, college, and university. Kindergartens and children's centers are closed.
Visits to all restaurants, fast food establishments, cafes, and bars are suspended. Only take away and home deliveries are allowed.
Establishment in shopping malls are closed with the exception of grocery stores, pharmacies, opticians, pet stores, banks, insurance company offices, and telecom operator's stores.
Gyms, fitness centers, cinemas, museums, galleries and concerts are closed with the exception of theaters where audience attendance is allowed up to 30%.
Group celebrations with the presence of more than 15 people indoors and outdoors are not allowed.
Conferences, congresses, seminars, team buildings, exhibitions, and other public and cultural events are not allowed.
Group tours around the country are suspended.
Visits to gambling establishments and casinos are suspended.
Indoor and outdoor sport activities for amateurs over the age of 18 are permitted for groups of up to 20 people. Individual and collective sports activities for children up to 18 years old are suspended, with the exception of international sports competitions that have started before or on November 27.
Grocery stores and pharmacies remain open. Between 8:30-10:30am only customers over the age of 65 are allowed.
Small retail stores located outside of malls can continue to operate.
Churches, mosques and synagogues remain open
Visiting parks and gardens is allowed
No curfew is imposed

You can read the full order here (Bulgarian only) HERE.

From October 25 until November 30, 2020, on the territory of Sofia, discos, piano-bars, night-bars, nightclubs and other night drinking establishments will be closed for the period. Based on Order RD-01-718/ 24.10.2020 of Sofia Regional Health Inspectorate.

Please, find Order RD-01-718/ 24.10.2020 of Sofia Regional Health Inspectorate HERE - (Bulgarian only).

As of October 21, on the territory of Republic of Bulgaria, wearing a protective mask or other means covering the nose and mouth, such as a bandanna, a scarf, or face shield, is mandatory in indoor public places: in all vehicles of public transport - bus, tramway, trolleybus, metrotrain, train, in metrostations, in pharmacies and medical institutions, administrative institutions, railway stations, bus stations, airports, shops, churches, monasteries, temples, museums and etc. (Based on order of the Bulgarian Minister of Health)

As of October 21, on the territory of Republic of Bulgaria, wearing a protective mask or other means covering the nose and mouth, such as a bandanna, a scarf, or face shield, is mandatory in outdoor public places where there are people congregating and there is no possibility to keep physical distance of 1.5 metres. (Based on order of the Bulgarian Minister of Health)

The wearing a protective mask or other means covering the nose and mouth does not apply to:

customers in restaurants and drinking establishments,
people doing indoors or outdoors sports,
people attending congresses, news conferences, seminars, briefings or lectures, but only during their speeches and by keeping 1.5 metres physical distance),
people taking part in television broadcasts by keeping 1.5 metres physical distance),
children under the age of six.

Keeping the 1.5 meters physical distancing in outdoor public places apply to people who are not members of one and the same household.

Please, find Order No. RD-01-609/21.10.2020, of the Minister of Health of the Republic of Bulgaria HERE - (Bulgarian only).

As of October 1, based on order of the Bulgarian Minister of Health, wearing a protective mask or other means covering the nose and mouth, such as a bandanna, a scarf, or face shield, is mandatory in all indoor public places: in all vehicles of public transport - bus, tramway, trolleybus, metrotrain, train, in metrostations, in pharmacies and medical institutions, administrative institutions, railway stations, bus stations, airports, shops, churches, monasteries, temples, museums and etc.

The wearing a protective mask or other means covering the nose and mouth does not apply to customers in restaurants and drinking establishments.

In all outdoor public places, wearing a mask is recommended.

Please, find Order No. RD-01-547/30.09.2020, of the Minister of Health of the Republic of Bulgaria HERE-(Bulgarian only).

As of October 1st, 2020, based on Order No. RD-01-547/30.09.2020 of the Minister of Health, allowed to enter the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria without restrictions are: Bulgarian citizens, citizens of EU member states, citizens of United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland; citizens of Schengen countries (including the Republic of San Marino, the Principality of Andorra, the Principality of Monaco, the Vatican City State) and their family members; citizens of Australian Union, Canada, Georgia, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Rwanda, the Republic of Korea, the Kingdom of Thailand, the Republic of Tunisia, the Eastern Republic of Uruguay, United Arab Emirates, Ukraine, the Republic of Serbia, the Republic of Belarus, the Republic of Turkey, all people who have permanent status, long-term or long-term residence on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria (including member of their families); all people who hold a Bulgarian long-stay visa type "D", as well as a residence permit in EU member states, citizens of United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland; citizens of Schengen countries (including the Republic of San Marino, the Principality of Andorra, the Principality of Monaco, the Vatican City State) (including member of their families);

All people who are allowed to enter the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria, and who arrive from a starting point in: EU member states, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland; Schengen countries (including the Republic of San Marino, the Principality of Andorra; the Principality of Monaco, the Vatican City State), Australian Union, Canada, Georgia, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Rwanda, the Republic of Korea, the Kingdom of Thailand, the Republic of Tunisia, the Eastern Republic of Uruguay, United Arab Emirates, the Republic of Serbia, Republic of Belarus, the Republic of Turkey – may enter the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria without the need to present a document showing a negative result from a polymerase chain reaction test to detect COVID-19 (PCR test).

For the purposes of the order of Bulgarian Minister of Health, the country from which a person arrives is considered to be the country of departure, irrespective of the stay or the transit of the person through other countries during its journey.

All people who are allowed to enter the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria, and who arrive from a starting point in a third country outside: EU member states, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland; Schengen countries (including the Republic of San Marino, the Principality of Andorra; the Principality of Monaco, the Vatican City State), Australian Union, Canada, Georgia, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Rwanda, the Republic of Korea, the Kingdom of Thailand, the Republic of Tunisia, the Eastern Republic of Uruguay, United Arab Emirates, the Republic of Serbia, Republic of Belarus, the Republic of Turkey - may enter the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria with the need to present a document showing a negative result from a polymerase chain reaction test to detect COVID-19 (PCR test) up to 72 hours before entering the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria,

Please, find the Order No. RD-01-547/30.09.2020, of the Minister of Health of the Republic of Bulgaria HERE-(Bulgarian only).

For more information, you can visit:

The official website of the European Union for European travel and holidays - https://reopen.europa.eu/en

Bulgarian Unified Information Portal - https://coronavirus.bg-(Bulgarian only)

The websites of the Bulgarian Ministry of Tourism - https://www.tourism.government.bg/en/kategorii/covid-19

Practical information for tourists – Covid-19 – https://bulgariatravel.org/en/useful/practical-information-for-tourists-covid-19/

The website of the Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs: - https://www.mfa.bg/en/

The website of the Sofia Regional Health Inspectorate - https://srzi.bg/en-(Bulgarian only)

The website of the Bulgarian Ministry of Health: - https://www.mh.government.bg/en/-(Bulgarian only)

The website of the Sofia Municipality: - www.sofia.bg/covid-19-(Bulgarian only)

Please, follow the development of the situation until September 30.

The epidemic situation in Bulgaria was extended until September 30, 2020.

The epidemic situation in Bulgaria was extended until August 31, 2020. The anti-epidemic measures remain the same and must be observed.

As of July 31, 2020 citizens of Ukraine and Jordan may enter Bulgaria without a PCR test. A PCR test is not required for people arriving in Bulgaria from other EU member states, the United Kingdom, Schengen countries, as well as from Australia, Canada, Georgia, Japan, Morocco, New Zealand, Rwanda, the Republic of Korea, Thailand, Tunisia and Uruguay. They are not subject to 14-day quarantine. Citizens of North Macedonia, Serbia, Albania, Kosovo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Moldova, Israel and Kuwait may enter if they have had a negative PCR test within the 72 hours prior to arrival.

The Bulgarian border authorities must be presented with a document, written in Latin script, showing a negative result, which contains the names of the person, according to the identity document being used to travel, data about the laboratory that performed the test, and the date on which the PCR test was performed.

As of July 16, 2020 all persons arriving from the following third countries can enter Bulgaria without a 14-day quarantine and without a PCR test: Iceland, the Kingdom of Norway, Switzerland, the Principality of Liechtenstein, the Republic of San Marino, the Principality of Andorra, the Principality of Monaco and The Vatican City State, Algeria, Australia, Canada, Georgia, Japan, Morocco, New Zealand, Rwanda, the Republic of Korea, Thailand, Tunisia, the Eastern Republic of Uruguay and Ukraine.

A new order of the Minister of Health Order № РД-01-405/15.07.2020 г.

All arrivals from Sweden and Portugal, as well as from all third countries other than those listed above, upon entering Bulgaria must present negative PCR test results, taken no more than 72 hours prior to entering the country.

As of July 1, 2020 a 14-day quarantine applies to all persons entering Bulgaria from Sweden, the UK and Northern Ireland, Portugal, and from all non-EU countries EXCEPT Serbia, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, San Marino, Andorra, Monaco and Vatican City State (order of the Minister of Health № РД-01-372/30.06.2020 г. )

People entering Bulgaria will have to fill in the following declaration form which will have to be submitted to the border health control authorities: Appendix No 1 to order RD-01-372/30.06.2020

DECLARATION
The undersigned
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………
(names of the person)
Coming from………………………………………………………………………………………
(starting point of departure, regardless the stay or transit through another country)

DECLARE:
1. I have no symptoms of COVID-19 (increase body temperature,cough, breading disorders, loss of sence of smell, loss of taste, etc.)
2. I have not been in contact for the last 14 days with sick from COVID-19
3. I am well acquainted with the epidemic situation in the Republic of Bulgaria, as well as with the risks of infection with COVID-19
4. I will follow the antiepidemic measures introduced with order(s) of the Minister of Health on the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria
5. I travel on my own risk
6. Purpose of the travel ……………………………………………………………………………
7. I am obliged immediately to leave the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria
(only for persons in transit on Bulgarian territory)
8. I am informed that for incorrect data I am legally responsible according the Bulgarian legislation

Contact data:
No of identity card/passport…………………………………………..
Mobile tel. No:……………………………………………………………….
E-mail:…………………………………………………………………………..

DATE: SIGNATURE:
You can find it translated into other languages here:
https://www.mh.government.bg/bg/normativni-aktove/zapovedi-pravilnitsi-instruktsii/

The emergency epidemic situation in Bulgaria was extended until June 30, 2020. The anti-epidemic measures remain the same and must be observed.

Bulgaria brings back mandatory wearing of masks in indoor public places

As of June 23, wearing a protective mask or other means covering the nose and mouth, such as a scarf or facial shield, is mandatory in all indoor public places. This does not apply to customers in restaurants and drinking establishments, says a new order by the Minister of Health Kiril Ananiev. The order of the Minister here: https://www.mh.government.bg/media/filer_public/2020/06/22/zapoved__rd-01-354- 22062020_g.pdf

As of June 20, 2020 the 14-day quarantine for people arriving from Belgium is lifted.

As of June 18, 2020 the 14-day quarantine for people arriving from Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, San Marino, Andorra, Monaco and Vatican City State is lifted.

(Order of the Minister of Health here: https://www.mh.government.bg/media/filer_public/2020/06/17/zapoved__rd-01-341-17062020_g.pdf.

The same order allows everyone who has a residence permit in an EU member state, the UK and Northern Ireland, or in a Schengen country (including the Republic of San Marino, the Principality of Andorra, the Principality of Monaco and the Vatican City State) and the members of their families to enter the territory of the Republic of Bulgaria.

MESSAGE FROM THE MINISTRY OF TOURISM - Bulgaria welcomes tourists from 34 countries as of June 15th, 2020 without the 14-day quarantine. You can read the whole message here: http://www.tourism.government.bg/bg/kategorii/covid-19/message-ministry-tourism-bulgaria-welcomes-tourists-34-countries-june-15th-2020

Wearing a mask remains mandatory on public transport, in pharmacies and medical institutions. In all other public places, wearing a mask is recommended.

As of June 15, 2020 a 14-day quarantine applies to all persons entering Bulgaria from Sweden, Belgium, the UK and Northern Ireland, Portugal, and from all non-EU countries except Serbia, Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

As of June 15, 2020 the 14-day quarantine for people arriving from Ireland, Spain, Malta and Italy is lifted.

As of June 15, 2020 Congresses, conferences, seminars, exhibitions and cultural and entertainment events can be held with occupancy not exceeding 50 percent of the maximum capacity of the facility.

As of June 15, 2020 discotheques, night clubs and piano bars are reopening.

As of June 15, 2020 outdoor and indoor sports events are held with seat occupancy not exceeding 50 percent of the capacity of the facility.

All the measures are in accordance with the orders issued by Minister of Health Kiril Ananiev. You can find the orders here: https://www.mh.government.bg/bg/normativni- aktove/zapovedi-pravilnitsi-instruktsii/.

As of June 1, 2020, Bulgaria welcomes tourists from 29 countries. Restrictions on tourism travel starting to ease but caution remains. Read the special announcement of the Bulgarian Minister of Tourism HERE.

Current information about Covid-19 in Bulgaria can be found here: https://coronavirus.bg/arcgis/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/ecacd239ee7e4fba956f7948f586af93

A face mask (or a bandanna, a scarf, a face shield that covers the nose and mouth) must be worn in enclosed public places.

A physical distance of at least 1.5 meters must be maintained between non-family members and people that don't live together in outdoor public places e.g. parks, streets, bus stops.

Public transport and taxis operate. People must wear a mask when travelling on public transport. In the absence of such, passengers will be fined.

From 8.30am to 10.30am people under 60 years of age are not allowed to shop in supermarkets and stores.

The National Operational Headquarters recommend that more than two elderly people should not gather together in one place.

When there are crowds in front of retail establishments, people should maintain a distance of at least 2 m between each other and strictly follow the measures after entering the establishment.

Museums, galleries, libraries and various attractions in Sofia have reopened. See more.

Outdoor restaurants are open in Sofia. As of June 1, indoor visits to restaurants, fast food restaurants, drinking establishments, coffee shops, indoor children's and sports facilities, entertainment establishments and playrooms, including those in shopping malls are permitted with the exception of discos, piano bars and night clubs.

The activities of Medical SPA facilities, SPA and wellness centers on the territory of the whole country are allowed.

As of 18.05.2020 shopping malls and gyms have also reopened in compliance with all anti-epidemic measures.

The municipal markets in Sofia operate. When visiting them you must wear a mask.

As of 27.05.2020 the professional football competitions and trainings will be restored, rules have been established - https://coronavirus.bg/bg/news/265

All people coming from abroad will be subject to a mandatory quarantine of 14 days.

Information about the exceptions can be found here (https://coronavirus.bg/bg/333

As of June 1, the 14-day quarantine requirements for people coming from and going to Greece and Serbia will fall. In order to cross the borders of these countries people will have to fill in a declaration form stating that they are aware of the epidemiological situation in the country they are entering. The declaration form will have to be submitted to the border health control authorities.

Sample declaration – Appendix 1 to Order № RD-01-274 / 21.05.2020 274 / 21.05.2020.

As of May 22, the entry ban on all citizens of the EU and Schengen States (including the Most Serene Republic of San Marino, the Principality of Andorra, the Principality of Monaco and the Vatican City) to enter Bulgaria has been lifted. More information can be found here: https://coronavirus.bg/bg/news/267.

Tourists who choose Bulgaria for their holiday destination will be obligated to fill in a Declaration for travelling at their own risk. The Declaration was issued by the Ministry of Tourism. You can find it in eight languages: DE / RUS / FR / RO / GR / RS here: http://www.tourism.government.bg/bg/kategorii/covid-19/deklaraciya-za-putuvane-na-sobstven-risk

Up-to-date information on measures and restrictions on traveling in Europe and around the world can be found here https://mfa.bg/bg/situationcenter

Medical assistance

If you experience symptoms of a possible COVID-19 infection (fever, coughing, breathing difficulties, sore throat, runny nose, fatigue, muscle pain, etc.), call your general practitioner or 112 for further instructions.

Important for foreign citizens!

Foreign nationals who are unable to return to their home country due to changes in the pandemic situation should contact their country's diplomatic mission / office.

This page will be updated regularly as new information becomes available.

Important telephone numbers in case you need assistance in connection with the spread of COVID-19:

An emergency line has been set up on 112, where questions regarding the orders of the Minister of Health related to COVID-19 can be asked.

24-hour telephone number of the Situation Center of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs:
+359 2 948 2404
+359 2 971 3856
+359 2 948 3052
+359 2 948 2552
+359 2 948 2085

24-hour telephone number of the Ministry of Health:
+359 2 807 87 57

Hotline of the Ministry of Health:
+359 2 9301 152
+359 2 9301 253

Ministry of Tourism

+359 2 904 6895
+359 2 904 6811
+359 885 096 937 (during the weekend)

Restrictions

All people, when in enclosed public places, must wear disposable or reusable face masks or other means of covering the nose and mouth (including a bandanna, a scarf, a face shield, etc.), which are used in accordance with the recommendations in the Order of the Minister of Health. (Order RD-01-262 of 14.05.2020 - https://coronavirus.bg/bg/333).

The anti-epidemic measures for maintaining a physical distance of at least 1.5 m. between non-family members and people who don't live together should be observed in outdoor public places (including parks, streets, bus stops). (Order RD-01-262 of 14.05.2020 - https://coronavirus.bg/bg/333).

You can find more information about the requirements for visiting all national parks, nature parks, mountains, etc. park-like places outside residential areas on the territory of the municipalities, here.

For more information you can visit:

Unified information portal - https://coronavirus.bg.

The website of the Ministry of Health: https://www.mh.government.bg/bg/normativni-aktove/zapovedi-pravilnitsi-instruktsii/.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs: https://www.mfa.bg/bg/customnews/main/24736.

Sofia Municipality: www.sofia.bg/covid-19.

Covid-19

Current situation - Covid-19 in Sofia and Bulgaria

The safety and health of Sofia's residents and guests are our main priority!

On this page you will find information about the situation in Sofia and Bulgaria regarding the Covid-19 pandemic.

BULGARIA EXTENDS STATE OF EMERGENCY FOR THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC TO MARCH 31, 2022

Updated on June 2, 2021

Please, follow the development of the situation until September 30.

Medical assistance

Ministry of Tourism

Restrictions

For more information you can visit:

TIC - SOFIA

TIC - CHITALNYATA