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South Africa embassy & consulates in Bulgaria

Visa required$1,100/moSOS 112Updated Nov 9, 2026
Quick answer

South Africa has 1 diplomatic mission(s) in Bulgaria: Embassy (Sofia).

Entry rules for South Africa passport holders → Bulgaria:Visa required
Photo: Deensel · CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

South Africa missions in Bulgaria

Entry rules for South Africa passport holders

BulgariaVisa required

Visa rules change often. Always confirm with the official embassy or government site before you travel. Source: Passport Index dataset (MIT), refreshed Nov 9, 2026.

Do citizens of South Africa need a visa for Bulgaria?South Africa passport power

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Document checklist: South Africa → Bulgaria

General guidance for a short trip. Requirements change, so confirm with the official sources linked below.

  • Passport valid for at least 3 months after you leave the Schengen area and issued within the last 10 years.
  • Completed visa application form.
  • Recent passport photos.
  • Travel medical insurance with at least €30,000 coverage valid in all Schengen countries.
  • Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements of the last 3–6 months).
  • Employment letter or proof of business/studies.
  • Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation).
  • Return or onward ticket.

Only use the official government portal. Many look-alike sites charge extra.

Apostille or legalisation?
Apostille is enough
South Africa → Bulgaria
Driving licence abroad
Carry an IDP (1968 Vienna format) with your national licence.
South Africa → Bulgaria

Applying for a visa? Bulgaria missions in South Africa

  • embassy of Bulgaria in South AfricaEmbassy · Pretoria · +27 12 342 37 20See all
    Schengen visa statistics at this consulate
    Year 2025
    Applications
    713
    Visas issued
    524
    Refused
    109
    Refusal rate
    17.2%
    Multiple-entry share: 12%
    Source: European Commission, visa statistics for consulates

Frequently asked questions

Is there an embassy of South Africa in Bulgaria?

Yes. South Africa has 1 diplomatic mission(s) in Bulgaria: Embassy (Sofia).

Where is the South Africa embassy in Bulgaria?

The South Africa embassy in Bulgaria is located at 7, Shipka Street, Sofia.

Do citizens of South Africa need a visa for Bulgaria?

Visa required. Visa rules change often. Always confirm with the official embassy or government site before you travel.

How do I contact the South Africa embassy in Bulgaria?

Phone: +359 2 939 5015. Email: —. Website: http://www.dirco.gov.za/sofia.

Does South Africa have consulates in Bulgaria?

No separate consulate is on record; consular services are handled by the embassy.

What should I do if I lose my passport in Bulgaria?

Report the loss to the local police (emergency: 112), then contact the South Africa embassy or consulate in Bulgaria for an emergency travel document. Bring ID copies and a police report.

What are the opening hours?

Mo-Th 08:00-16:00; Fr 08:00-14:00