How to get Schengen travel health insurance for Bulgaria

Yes. As of January 1st, 2025, the millennia-old nation of Bulgaria was finally and fully integrated into the Schengen Zone.

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 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 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 national of the Schengen area or the EU;

-A holder of a valid residence permit issued by a Schengen Area member country;

-A national of a non-Schengen European Union member country (like Cyprus or Ireland)

-A national of a non-EU country (and/or territory) that has signed a visa exemption agreement with the EU. Of these there are roughly 60 - with Australia, Brazil, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, Mexico, the U.K., and the U.S. being among the most popular.

*PRO-TIP: AXA can also help you understand the Schengen visa 90/180-day rule in no time too!

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 This generally includes any nation in Africa, most of the ones in Asia and the Middle East, and over a hundred nations total worldwide.

Fortunately, the European Commission’s official website offers full lists of countries exempt and not exempt from the Schengen visa (long with a bunch of other helpful info).

Meanwhile, AXA can also easily help you answer one of the most common European travel questions in the world, which is:

Do I need a Schengen visa?

How do I apply for a visa for Bulgaria?

And if the answer is yes, fear not! Because AXA can also help you answer the next few logical questions to follow, such as:

How do I get a Schengen visa for Bulgaria?

What type of Schengen visa for Bulgaria do I need?

How much does a Schengen visa for Bulgaria cost?

How long does it take to process a Bulgarian Schengen visa?

In other words, just like Schengen travel insurance itself, the visa it’s designed for also happens to be one of AXA’s top areas of expertise - so click around!

Is travel insurance mandatory for Bulgaria?
 

And the answer to that, in turn, depends on your Schengen visa situation — as discussed above. Because - again- millions of travelers worldwide need to apply for a Bulgarian Schengen visa.

Meanwhile, one of the primary requirements for being granted a Schengen visa - for Bulgaria or anywhere else - is having the proper Schengen travel insurance.

IMPORTANT NOTE: And keep in mind that your Bulgarian Schengen visa application will not be accepted if you don’t have said insurance - which means you must have your plan purchased by the time you apply!

Not only that, but your Bulgarian Schengen travel insurance plan must also adhere to a specific set of criteria.

What are the travel insurance requirements to be granted a Schengen visa for Bulgaria?
 

As set forth by European Union (in Regulation (EC) No. 810/2009), in order to be granted a Schengen visa, your travel insurance plan must:

• be purchased from an insurance company validated by the consular authorities of all Schengen countries
• have a minimum coverage of €30,000 in medical expenses (such as hospitalization, emergency treatment, and repatriation – including in case of death);
• cover you in all the Schengen member countries (not just Bulgaria)
• be valid for the entire duration of your stay in the Schengen Area.

And, fortunately, all of AXA’s plans meet all the EU Schengen criteria above!

PRO-TIP: But if you still want to learn more, AXA has all the deets on travel insurance requirements for a Schengen visa (and reasons behind them) too!

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

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 travel insurance for Bulgaria?
 

So visa or no visa, here are just a few other reasons why AXA is a great companion to your Bulgarian adventure. Our plans:

• Have no age limit, zero deductibles, and require no medical exams
• Offer a quick, easy, and hassle-free online subscription
• Are accepted by all Bulgarian (and all other Schengen) embassies, consulates, and visa application centers worldwide
• Provide the certified, world-recognized AXA travel insurance certificate instantly upon purchase (via email) - which you can then use at the aforementioned embassies, etc.
• Not only meet all the EU/Schengen requirements above,
  but also offer a full refund in case your Schengen visa application is denied!
• Offer coverage of medical expenses and repatriation costs of up to €1 Million or even €2 Million
• Include both civil liability and personal liability insurance
• Include death and/or disability coverage
• Offer baggage insurance (included or optional, depending on the plan)
• Offer customizable plans with multiple upgrade options
• Are valid for the Schengen area + the European Union + the United Kingdom (depending on the plan, that is - but more on that below)
• Offer duration flexibility - from just one day, up to six months, or up to a full year
• Provide 24/7 emergency assistance
• Offer free remote medical consultation (in English and a number of other languages) with our unique Doctor, Please! feature
• Can be purchased on behalf of someone else

And, of course, with AXA, you know you’re supported by a world-renowned, decades-trusted, first-class Schengen travel insurance brand!

What travel insurance options for Bulgaria (and/or a Schengen visa) does AXA offer?
 

And here’s what you have to choose from when planning your Bulgarian journey (click on each plan to learn more!):

-AXA SCHENGEN BASIC: our standard coverage meets all the requirements for your Schengen visa and is simple yet reliable (and world-recognized).
AXA BASIC covers you in all Schengen countries + European microstates (San Marino, Andorra, Monaco, and Vatican City).

-AXA SCHENGEN ESSENTIAL: complete, reliable, affordable European coverage that meets all EU/Schengen visa requirements and covers you in all Schengen countries + all EU countries + the European microstates above + the UK.

-AXA SCHENGEN PREMIUM: our premium, all-inclusive coverage also meets all necessary Schengen visa requirements, and also covers you in all Schengen countries + all EU countries + the European microstates + the UK.
It is designed for those travelers who want to opt for completely zero-stress and worry-free travel.

-AXA SCHENGEN ANNUAL: our annual plan is best suited for frequent travelers and/or holders of multiple-entry visas.
It meets all visa requirements while providing coverage across all Schengen countries + all EU countries + the microstates + the UK - all while offering a single contract for a full year of Bulgarian and other European travel!

So as you’re learning more about your upcoming Bulgarian adventure, be sure to also
 

With AXA’s countless benefits, decades of trusted experience and support, and various adjustable options, your Bulgarian journey (and/or the Schengen visa application that accompanies it) is guaranteed to be stress-free from beginning to end!

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. Here’s the exchange rate* for the Bulgarian Lev (BGN) as of late 2025:

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 much does Schengen travel insurance cost?
• Which European countries are not in the Schengen Zone?
• Which driving licences are accepted in the Schengen Area?

FAQ

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.

Can I take out AXA Schengen travel health insurance for Bulgaria on behalf of someone else?

Yes. Purchasing travel insurance for loved ones and/or visiting guests is easy with AXA. All you need to provide is their personal info (i.e., their DOB, address, passport number, and itinerary).