South Africa grants 90 days visa free entry to Bulgarians

South Africa has lifted short-stay visa requirements for Bulgarian citizens holding ordinary passports. The policy took effect on October 7, 2025, and was formally reflected on the Department of Home Affairs visa exemption list issued on October 16, 2025. Stays of up to 90 days are permitted for short-term visits.

What changed and when

• Effective date: October 7, 2025, per Bulgaria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announcement on October 16, 2025.
• South Africa’s official list of visa exempt nationalities issued on October 16, 2025 includes Bulgaria with ordinary passport holders eligible for 90 days.

Who is eligible

• Bulgarian citizens traveling on ordinary passports for short term visits such as tourism, family visits, conferences or business meetings. Maximum stay is up to 90 days.

What is not covered

• The visa free regime does not apply to study, employment, business management or registration, medical treatment and other activities covered under sections 13 to 24 of South Africa’s Immigration Act. Travelers engaging in these activities must obtain the appropriate visa before travel.

Entry rules at the border

• Visa on arrival: South Africa does not issue visas at ports of entry. Visa exempt travelers receive an entry stamp that serves as a visitor’s permit for the allowed period.
• Passport validity: Your passport should be valid for at least 30 days after the end of your intended stay and should have at least one blank page for entry and exit endorsements.
• Travel documents: You may be asked for a return or onward ticket, proof of sufficient funds and a yellow fever certificate if your trip starts in or transits a yellow fever belt country.

eVisa and how to apply if you do need a visa

• Bulgarian citizens visiting for up to 90 days do not need an eVisa.
• Nationals who are not visa-exempt, or Bulgarians whose purpose falls outside short term visits, should apply through South Africa’s official visa processing partner, VFS Global. Online guidance is on the Department of Home Affairs site. Apply now: https://www.vfsglobal.com/dha/southafrica.

Available visa types for longer or non exempt stays

• Common categories include study visas, work visas under the points based system, general work and critical skills, intra company transfer, business visas for investors and medical treatment visas. Applications are lodged via VFS Global or at South African missions abroad.

Useful traveler information for Bulgarians

• Consular matters: South Africa closed its embassy in Sofia on June 30, 2025. Consular services for Bulgaria are handled by the South African Embassy in Athens. Plan any long term visa applications accordingly.
• Minors: Check South Africa’s guidance for children traveling. Additional documents may be required when a minor travels unaccompanied or with one parent.

Key official websites

• Department of Home Affairs visa exemption list and visa guidance.
• Border Management Authority travel advisories for entry conditions.
• Bulgarian MFA notice confirming the change and effective date.

Bottom line
Bulgarian passport holders can now enter South Africa without a visa for short term visits of up to 90 days. Check that your trip purpose fits the exemption, meet passport and entry requirements, and apply for the correct visa type in advance if your activities go beyond a short visit.

Sources

• South Africa Department of Home Affairs. Countries exempt from South African visas. Issued October 16, 2025. (dha.gov.za)
• Department of Home Affairs. Applying for a South African Visa. Requirements and policy notes. (dha.gov.za)
• Border Management Authority. Entering and leaving SA and travel advisory. (bma.gov.za)
• DIRCO. South Africa to maintain close ties with Bulgaria as the embassy in Sofia winds down operations. May 3, 2025. (dirco.gov.za)