🇧🇬 Bulgaria
How the 90/180 rule applies to Bulgaria, plus the tools you'll want before you go.
Joined Schengen
2024
Currency
BGN
Timezone
Europe/Sofia
Calling code
+359
What counts toward your 90 days
Every day spent in Bulgaria counts toward the same Schengen-wide 90-day allowance. Days in Bulgaria are added to days in any of the other 28 Schengen countries when calculating the rolling 180-day window.
Entry and exit days both count as full days.
If you hold a Bulgaria national long-stay visa or residence permit, the 90/180 rule does not limit your stay in Bulgaria itself, but it does still cap your time in the rest of Schengen.
Nomading in Bulgaria, specifically
Bulgarian entry is straightforward for US, UK, EU, and Canadian citizens: you get 90 days visa-free per 180 days. Indian passport holders need a Schengen visa beforehand. Don't worry about ETIAS yet; that's still a few years off. Border guards are efficient.
Who Walks In Visa-Free, And Who Doesn't
Most Westerners, including Americans, Canadians, Australians, and UK citizens, can enter Bulgaria visa-free for short stays. This applies to the Schengen Area rule of 90 days in any 180-day period. If you're from a country like India, China, or many African nations, you'll need to apply for a Schengen visa before your trip. You'll get an entry stamp in your passport, and that's your record. Land border crossings are common, especially from neighbours like Greece or Turkey, and they stamp you in just like at the airport.
The 90/180 Rule: Bulgaria's Nuance
The 90/180 day rule is your main constraint. It means you can spend a maximum of 90 days within any 180-day window. This counts days spent in any Schengen country, not just Bulgaria. If you plan to stay longer, you’ll need to look into a Bulgarian residence permit, which is a separate process and not covered by your initial visa-free entry. For long stays, getting this sorted before your 90 days are up is key. Exit and entry stamps at land borders are crucial for tracking your days, so keep your passport handy.
Where Nomads Actually Settle
Most remote workers gravitate towards Sofia, the capital. It’s got the best infrastructure, co-working spaces, and international vibe. You’ll find decent internet speeds, typically 50-100 Mbps for home connections, sometimes higher. Expect to spend around €600-€900 per month for a comfortable solo stay, covering rent, food, and local transport. Outside Sofia, Plovdiv is a popular second choice, known for its historical charm and lower cost of living. Paying for things is easy; most places accept card payments, though having some Bulgarian Lev (BGN) cash for smaller shops or markets is smart.