Highlights: Bulgaria Expands Long-Term Visa Services Across India | Effective November 1
  • Starting November 1, 2025, Bulgaria will officially launch its long-term (D) visa services in India, making it simpler for Indian citizens to apply for study, work, and family visas.
  • Now, Indian applicants can submit their visa applications across six major cities — New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Ahmedabad — instead of travelling only to the capital.
  • VFS Global has been appointed as the authorized service partner to handle the process, including application submission, document verification, and biometric enrolment.
  • Appointment slots for centres outside New Delhi will open by mid-November 2025, making the process far more accessible to applicants nationwide.
  • Applicants can submit their forms and track their status online through the VFS Global Bulgaria Visa Portal, ensuring a faster and smoother experience.
Planning to apply for a Bulgaria Long-Term Visa? Connect with Apical Immigration Experts for professional guidance through every step of the process.

Bulgaria Strengthens Bilateral Ties with India through Simplified Visa Access

In a significant diplomatic step, Bulgaria has expanded its long-term visa (D visa) operations across India. This development aims to make it easier for Indian students, skilled professionals, and families to apply for long-stay visas.

The initiative was formalized on October 24, 2025, following an agreement between H.E. Nikolay Yankov, Ambassador of Bulgaria to India, and Yummi Talwar, Chief Operating Officer – South Asia, VFS Global, at the Embassy of Bulgaria in New Delhi.

According to Ambassador Yankov, the launch represents “a vital step in enhancing people-to-people and business relations between India and Bulgaria.” The new system simplifies access for those pursuing education, employment, or family reunification in Bulgaria.

This expansion highlights Bulgaria’s growing interest in fostering cultural and professional exchanges with India while ensuring smoother and more transparent visa processing.

What This Means for Indian Applicants

The rollout of Bulgaria’s long-term (D) visa across multiple Indian cities offers several advantages:
  • Better accessibility: Applicants can now apply from six major Indian cities instead of travelling to New Delhi.
  • Time efficiency: Appointment slots outside Delhi will open by mid-November 2025, cutting down on travel time and long waiting periods.
  • Trusted management: Applications will be handled by VFS Global, which already oversees Bulgaria’s short-term (C) visa services.
  • Consistent service: With operations in 31 countries and over 100 centers, VFS Global ensures uniform standards.
  • One-stop solution: Indian citizens can now apply for both short-term and long-term visas under one streamlined system.

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Where to Apply for a Bulgaria Long-Term Visa in India

Indian citizens can now submit Bulgaria long-term visa (D visa) applications at VFS Global centres in the following cities:
City Visa Application Centre Location
Ahmedabad Shree Balaji Agora Mall, Motera
Bengaluru Gopalan Innovation Mall, J.P. Nagar
Chennai Ramee Mall, Anna Salai, Teynampet
Kolkata Rene Tower, Kasba
Mumbai Trade Centre, Bandra Kurla Complex
New Delhi Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Connaught Place

Applicants can book appointments online through the official VFS Global Bulgaria Visa Portal, select their preferred centre, and prepare the required documents in advance.

The phased rollout ensures smoother handling of applications and minimal delays as the new system takes effect.

Bulgaria’s Visa Expansion Creates New Pathways for Indians

Bulgaria’s decision to expand its long-term visa services across India opens up fresh opportunities for Indian students, skilled professionals, and families seeking to live, work, or study in Europe.

The country is emerging as a growing hub for higher education, technology, and international employment. With simplified procedures and localized visa centres, Indian applicants can now experience a faster, more convenient, and transparent application process.

  • Students: Access affordable, high-quality European education in Bulgaria’s reputed universities.
  • Professionals: Explore Bulgaria’s expanding industries and growing job market.
  • Families: Reunite with loved ones and begin a new chapter in a European country known for its safety and cultural diversity.

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FAQs on Bulgaria’s Long-Term Visa Services in India

What is the new update on Bulgaria’s long-term visa applications in India?

Bulgaria will begin accepting long-term (D) visa applications from Indian nationals starting November 1, 2025. This step strengthens Bulgaria–India relations and provides easier access for those seeking to stay in Bulgaria for studies, work, or family purposes.

When will Bulgaria start accepting these applications?

Applications open officially on November 1, 2025, and will be processed through VFS Global centres across six Indian cities.

Where can Indians apply for Bulgaria’s long-term visa?

Applicants can visit VFS Global visa centres located in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, and Ahmedabad.

Who is handling the visa application process?

VFS Global has been appointed by Bulgaria to manage application submissions, biometric collection, and document verification.

What types of long-term visas are available?

Indian citizens can apply for Visa D, which covers employment, business, study, research, and family reunification purposes.

What documents are required?

A valid passport, completed application form, photographs, proof of accommodation, financial means, and travel insurance are required. Additional documents may vary based on visa type.

What is the processing time?

Typically, 30 to 45 working days, depending on the completeness of the application and embassy workload.

Are short-term Bulgaria visas still available in India?

Yes. Short-term (C) visas continue to be processed alongside the new long-term (D) visa services.

Is VFS Global managing both visa categories?

Yes. VFS Global now manages both short-term and long-term Bulgarian visa services across India.

How does this change benefit Indian citizens?

This new system saves time, reduces travel, and simplifies the application process—making Bulgaria a more accessible European destination for Indian students, professionals, and families.

Planning to study, work, or settle in Bulgaria? Let Apical Immigration Experts simplify your visa process with end-to-end assistance — from documentation to approval.