Saudi Arabia Visa for Bulgarian Citizens

Bulgarian citizens are required to obtain a visa before traveling to Saudi Arabia for all travel purposes, as stated by the immigration policy.

NOTE: A Saudi visa can be issued in traditional paper form or electronically (eVisa), depending on the purpose and length of travel.

The Saudi eVisa is valid for one year and allows multiple entries, with a maximum stay of 90 days. To apply, you must have a Bulgarian passport with at least 6 months of validity from your planned entry date.

For those who opt for a Regular Visa, the application must be submitted through the nearest Saudi Embassy or Consulate, ensuring all required documents are provided.

Additionally, a Transit Visa is available for Bulgarians passing through the Kingdom en route to another destination. Visa on Arrival is also an option when you don’t want to get a Saudi visa beforehand.

How to Get a Saudi Electronic Visa

Getting a Saudi eVisa as a Bulgarian tourist is a simple and convenient process. The application can be completed online in just a few minutes, eliminating the need to visit an embassy or consulate.

1. Visit the Official eVisa Portal: Start by visiting the https://ksavisa.sa/ website. Create an account by entering your email address and setting up a secure password to access the application system.
2. Fill Out the Application: Complete the online application form by providing your personal details, including your full name, date of birth, and nationality.
3. Upload the Required Documents: Provide a recent face photo that meets the specified requirements, such as proper dimensions and background color.
4. Pay the Visa Fee: Once you’ve completed the form and uploaded your documents, proceed to pay the visa fee.
5. Wait for Approval: After submitting your Saudi visa application and payment, the processing begins.
6. Receive Your eVisa: Once your Saudi eVisa is approved, it will be sent directly to your registered email address.

Download and print a copy of the Saudi eVisa to carry with you during your trip. You may also save a digital copy on your device for backup.

Make sure your passport has a validity of at least 6 months from your planned date of entry into Saudi Arabia. This is a crucial requirement for the eVisa application process.

Regular Saudi Visas for Bulgarian Citizens

For reasons such as employment, residency, or long-term stays, Bulgarian travelers need to apply for a Regular Saudi Visa.

Regular Visas are processed at Saudi Arabian Consulates or Embassies and typically include requirements for specific documentation.

To get a Regular Visa, first, book an appointment with the Saudi Arabian Embassy in Bulgaria.

Next, gather the required documents, including your passport, application form, face photograph, and any visa-specific materials, such as a sponsorship letter, if applicable.

Attend your scheduled appointment to submit your application and provide biometric data, if required.

Finally, wait for your Saudi visa to be processed, keeping in mind that processing times can vary, so it’s best to apply well in advance of your trip.

Saudi Visa on Arrival and Transit Visa

The process for a Saudi Visa on Arrival is straightforward and convenient. Bulgarians need to provide a valid passport and pay the applicable fee upon arrival at entry points [self-service devices (KIOSK) or passport control office].

The Visa on Arrival is often issued for tourism purposes and allows for a short stay in the Kingdom.

What is more, a Transit or Stopover Visa permits Bulgarian travelers passing through Saudi Arabia to enter the country for various purposes, such as tourism, performing Umrah, or attending events.

The Transit Visa enables a 96-hour stay in the Kingdom and can be obtained while booking plane tickets.

What Documents Do I Need for a Saudi Visa

To apply for a Saudi visa as a Bulgarian citizen, you need to meet specific requirements set by Saudi authorities and gather and prepare the necessary documents:

• A valid Bulgarian passport: Make sure your passport has at least 6 months of validity beyond your intended date of entry into Saudi Arabia. It should also have blank pages for visa stamps.
• A completed visa application form: Fill out the official visa application form accurately and legibly. This can often be completed online or obtained from the Saudi Embassy.
• Recent face photograph: Provide a clear, recent photograph that meets the official embassy requirements, including size, background color, and other specifications.
• Supporting documents: Depending on the type of visa (e.g., for tourism, business, or work), additional documentation, such as proof of employment or financial stability, may be required.

Always check with the Saudi Consulate or Embassy for the most up-to-date requirements before applying, as visa regulations and documentation can change frequently. This ensures you have the most accurate information and avoids any potential delays in your application process.

Extending the Saudi eVisa for Bulgarian Citizens

Bulgarian citizens planning to stay in Saudi Arabia beyond the 90-day limit allowed by the eVisa must apply for a visa extension. This can be done through the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs or other relevant government services, such as authorized visa service centers.

To qualify for a Saudi visa extension, you will need to present a valid reason for your extended stay, supported by the necessary documentation, such as proof of employment, medical records, or other official paperwork.

Submitting your extension application before your visa expires is crucial to avoid fines, legal complications, or penalties that may affect your future travel plans.

How to Correct Errors in Your Saudi Visa Application

Mistakes on your Saudi visa application can lead to delays or even a denial of your visa.

To address errors, start by carefully reviewing your application to make sure all the information matches your passport before submission.

If you’ve made a mistake on your Saudi eVisa application, contact the Saudi eVisa support team as soon as possible to resolve the issue.

You may need to schedule a new appointment and resubmit the corrected application for errors in the paper Saudi visa application.

Saudi Embassy in Bulgaria

If you need assistance or have specific requirements for your Saudi visa, contact the Saudi Arabian Embassy in Bulgaria.

The embassy offers a range of consular services, including visa issuance for Bulgarian citizens traveling to Saudi Arabia for tourism, business, or other purposes.

The experienced staff can guide you through the Saudi visa application process, answer your questions, and make sure that you have the necessary documentation for a smooth and successful visa experience.

• Address: Sofia Vitosha District Manastirski Livadi Bul. Braty Bukston N.35
• Phone: 028621058
• Fax: 028620630
• Operating Hours: From 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

FAQ about Saudi Visa for Bulgarians

• Can Bulgarian citizens apply for a Saudi eVisa online?
  Yes, Bulgarian citizens can apply for a Saudi eVisa through the official online portal.

• How long is a Saudi eVisa valid?
  The eVisa is valid for one year, with multiple entries allowed (the total stay can’t exceed 90 days).

• Do I need sponsorship to apply for a Saudi visa?
  Sponsorship is generally required for Regular Saudi Visas, such as Work or Residency Visas.

• Can I perform Umrah with a Saudi eVisa?
  Yes, you can perform Umrah with a Saudi eVisa, but it does not cover Hajj.

• What should I do if my Saudi visa application is rejected?
  If your Saudi visa application is rejected, carefully review the reasons provided, correct any issues, and reapply.

• Is travel insurance required for a Saudi eVisa?
  Yes, travel insurance is required and may be integrated into the eVisa application process.

• Can I extend my Saudi eVisa?
  Yes, you can apply for a Saudi eVisa extension if necessary, but make sure you do so before your current visa expires.

• What happens if I overstay my visa in Saudi Arabia?
  Overstaying a Sauid visa can result in fines, penalties, or legal consequences.

Conclusion

Getting a Saudi visa as a Bulgarian citizen is straightforward when you understand the requirements and application process.

From the convenience of a Saudi eVisa for tourism to the options of Regular Visas for specific purposes (work, study, etc.), there’s a visa type to meet your travel needs.

Remember to double-check your application for accuracy and ensure all required documents are prepared.

If you’re planning a longer stay, explore extension options well in advance. For any assistance, the Saudi Embassy in Bulgaria is always ready to guide you.

Sources:

• https://embassies.mofa.gov.sa/sites/Bulgaria/en/Pages/default.aspx
• https://visa.visitsaudi.com/
• https://ksavisa.sa/