23 March 2021
There's a ban on overseas travel from Australia. You can’t leave Australia unless you have an exemption from the Department of Home Affairs, or are travelling to a destination that is exempt from the ban.
Our global travel advice remains at 'Do not travel' due to the health risks from the COVID-19 pandemic and the significant disruptions to global travel. Some destinations were already set at Do Not Travel prior to COVID-19 due to the extreme risk to your safety.
If you’re overseas and wish to return to Australia, be prepared for delays and read our advice on trying to get home.
When you arrive in Australia you must quarantine for 14 days at designated facilities in your port of arrival, unless you have an exemption or are travelling on a quarantine-free flight from a green zone destination. At this time, vaccination against COVID-19 does not change this quarantine requirement. You may be required to pay for the costs of your quarantine. View State and Territory Government COVID-19 information for information about quarantine and domestic borders.
If you're staying overseas, make plans to stay for an extended period. Follow the advice of local authorities and minimise your risk of exposure to COVID-19. Stay in touch with family and friends so they know you're safe.
Our network of embassies and consular posts around the world will provide you with up-to-date local advice and support throughout this difficult period. Be aware consular services may be limited due to local measures.
For the latest information, read and subscribe to our news and travel advice. Also see our COVID-19 information pages.
Call 112.
Call 112 or go to a hospital.
Call 112 or go to the local police station.
Do not travel to Bulgaria due to the health risks from the COVID-19 pandemic and the significant disruptions to global travel.
Do not travel overseas due to the health risks from the COVID-19 pandemic and the significant disruptions to global travel.
Full travel advice: Safety
Full travel advice: Health
Full travel advice: Local laws
Full travel advice: Travel
Full travel advice: Local contacts
Pickpocketing and bag snatching are common. Be careful:
Car theft is common. Very few owners get their vehicle back.
Car break-ins are also common, especially when valuables are easily visible. Park in a secure carpark wherever possible.
To protect yourself from crime:
Violent crime can happen, including:
Organised crime groups are active in casinos, nightclubs and the sex industry.
Watch out for drink spiking, especially at popular night spots. Never leave your food or drinks unattended. Don't accept food or drinks from strangers.
ATM skimming and credit card fraud are common. Internet fraud also happens.
To protect your credit and ATM cards:
More information:
While there have been no recent terrorist attacks in Bulgaria, they can still happen.
In recent years, terrorists have attacked several European cities. Targets have included:
European security forces have also disrupted several recent planned attacks.
Bulgarian cities and winter ski resorts all have heightened security measures.
To protect yourself against terrorism:
If there's an attack, leave the affected area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.
Terrorism is a threat worldwide.
More information:
Bulgarians hold protests, rallies and other demonstrations at short notice.
Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent. Minor injuries sometimes occur.
More information:
Bulgaria experience natural disasters and severe weather, such as:
Large earthquakes are rare, but earth tremors are common.
Avalanches may happen in mountain regions, especially when warm temperatures follow a harsh winter.
Extreme weather can cause landslides and flooding.
From June to October, regular alerts for wildfires are issued. Large-scale and fast-spreading fires in forests and fields are a danger.
Get updates from the National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology.
Take official warnings seriously. Follow advice from local authorities.
If there's a natural disaster or severe weather:
Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. You can’t leave Australia unless you get an exemption from the Department of Home Affairs.
Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.
If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.
If you're not insured, you may have to pay many 1000s of dollars up-front for medical care.
In Bulgaria, you may need to show proof of travel insurance at the port of entry.
Confirm:
Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. Consider whether you may be in a vulnerable category for COVID-19.
See your doctor or travel clinic to:
Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.
More information:
Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)
COVID-19 vaccines (Department of Health)
Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.
If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Bulgaria. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.
Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:
More information:
COVID-19 remains a risk in Bulgaria. People who have been hospitalised with COVID-19 may be subject to mandatory isolation after discharge. People with mild symptoms or who had contact with people with the virus are required to undergo home isolation for up to 14 days. Follow the advice of local authorities and take care to minimise your risk of exposure.
PCR testing is available at accredited hospitals and private laboratories across the country. Accredited hospitals and laboratories are approved by the Ministry of Health and published in Health Order No: № РД-01-23/15.01.2020 г. (available only in Bulgarian). Be aware of potential fake PCR testing schemes, advertised through social media sites that are conducted by mobile teams.
For information on Bulgaria's COVID−19 vaccination program, as well as on entry restrictions for all individuals, regardless of citizenship, through all border crossings, by air (including commercial and private aircraft), sea, rail and road transport, refer to the Bulgarian Ministry of Health website (in Bulgarian). You should consult your local health professional for advice on vaccine options, including assistance that may be available locally. The Australian Government cannot provide advice on the safety, quality and efficacy of vaccines that have been approved for use outside of Australia's regulatory process.
More information:
Rabies is common. Feral dogs roam city streets, often in packs. Dogs can be vicious and attacks are common.
To protect yourself from rabies:
Tick-borne encephalitis is a risk, especially if you travel through forested areas.
Ticks are common in country areas from April to October.
Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common.
They include:
To protect yourself from illness:
Get medical help if you have a fever or diarrhoea.
More information:
Several West Nile virus (WNV) cases have occurred throughout Bulgaria. There's no vaccine to prevent it.
To protect yourself from disease:
Health care standards are well below those in Australia. Medical supplies are limited, particularly outside major cities.
Several private medical clinics and hospitals in Sofia and other major cities are well-equipped and well-staffed. However, treatment can be expensive. You also often need to pay doctors up-front.
If you become seriously ill or injured, you may be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.
You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.
If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.
Penalties for possessing or trafficking drugs can be severe. They can include heavy fines and prison sentences.
More information:
Always carry original photo identification.
It's illegal to cover your face in public. This includes wearing a balaclava, full veil or anything else that hides your face.
It's also illegal to:
It's also illegal to:
Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.
More information:
Bulgaria recognises dual nationality.
If you're a dual citizen, this limits the consular services we can provide if you're arrested or detained.
More information:
Same-sex relationships aren't illegal, but aren't widely accepted.
Avoid public displays of affection.
More information:
You don't need a visa to enter as a tourist for up to 90 days within a 6-month period.
You need a visa for other kinds of travel.
While Bulgaria is part of the European Union (EU), it's not yet in the Schengen area.
Visa and other entry and exit conditions may change if Bulgaria becomes part of the Schengen area. Contact the nearest Bulgarian Embassy or Consulate for up-to-date information.
More information:
Some international airlines are flying to Bulgaria on reduced schedules. Some European land border crossings are restricted or closed for passenger traffic, including some with Bulgaria. Bulgaria is accepting certificates issued by other EU member states under the EU Digital Certificate Scheme.
Bulgaria has introduced a new system of classification for travellers arriving in the country based on green, orange and red zones, which determines entry requirements. The list of countries can be found here (Bulgarian only).
If you're arriving from a green zone, you may enter Bulgaria by providing one of the following:
If you fail to present one of the above documents, you must go into 10 days quarantine at home or at an address provided to the health inspectorate.
If you're arriving from an orange zone, you'll need to provide one of the following:
The vaccine types and tests that will be accepted are listed in the annexes (in Bulgarian) at the end of the published ordinance. You may be subject to testing, self-isolation, and quarantine requirements. If you test positive for COVID-19, you'll be required to self-isolate for 14 days.
Arrivals from red zone countries are not allowed entry.
If you travel from a country with a higher COVID-19 risk you may be denied entry. Check with your nearest Bulgarian Embassy or Consulate for more information. You may travel to Bulgaria if you are travelling for an essential purpose.
You can transit Bulgaria, but you'll need to complete a declaration on arrival confirming:
There are restrictions at many European land borders, including with Bulgaria, that can affect road and rail travel. Check the travel advice for any countries you intend to travel to before your departure.
Australian citizens permanently residing in Bulgaria, who have already been vaccinated in the country will be able to download their COVID-19 digital certificate in the new European format on the National Health Information System website (Bulgarian only).
In order to obtain the certificate, you'll need to enter your personal identification number, ID card number and the reference number of one of the two vaccines received. Alternatively, you can obtain your COVID-19 digital certificate at the vaccination centre where you received your vaccine or through your GP.
You must wear a mask in all indoor public spaces including public transport, pharmacies, supermarkets, banks, telephone shops, pet shops and medical facilities. You can visit open-air areas of restaurants and entertainment establishments between the hours of 6am and 11pm. Other food establishments are open on a takeaway and home delivery basis only. Wearing a mask outdoors is highly recommended.
Under Bulgarian health regulations, validity checks of COVID-19 vaccination certificates are required to enter some venues. Australian and non-EU certificates may not be compatible with digital systems used to check certificates. The Australian Embassy cannot intervene on your behalf or assist you to gain entry.
Schools and entertainment establishments could re-open in the coming months. Monitor local media for updates.
Retail shops located in shopping malls are closed.
Restaurants and bars are open until 10pm with no more than six people per table.
Gyms, fitness centres and swimming pools are open, with no more than 50% capacity and all visitors must maintain social distancing measures.
Cinemas, theatres, galleries, and libraries are open to the public with no more than 50% capacity.
Visiting parks and public gardens is allowed under certain conditions:
Indoor sporting events can take place without spectators. Outdoor sporting events can be held with seated spectators up to 30% capacity.
Outdoor gatherings of more than 30 people are not allowed. Indoor gatherings of up to 15 people, socially distanced and wearing masks, is permitted. If you do not comply with the existing measures you may be fined by the police.
If you're staying in Bulgaria:
Children under 18 years of age, including dual nationals, may only leave Bulgaria:
A Bulgarian notary must certify any parental consent.
If you're a single parent, make sure your child meets entry and exit rules.
More information:
Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you’re just transiting or stopping over.
Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.
You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.
The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you travel. If you’re not sure it’ll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.
Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.
Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.
If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:
The currency of Bulgaria is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN).
Declare amounts over 10,000 euros, or equivalent, if you're travelling between Bulgaria and any non-EU country. You need to do this on both arrival and departure. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.
If you don't declare or if you give incorrect information, you'll need to pay a fine.
You don't need to declare cash if you're travelling to or from another EU country.
Bulgaria is mostly a cash economy, although credit and debit card use is increasing.
Exchange money in banks, large hotels or exchange bureaus. Avoid unofficial or street sellers.
Since 2015, pressures on border controls in Europe have increased due to movement of asylum seekers.
Carry your passport when you cross borders, even within the Schengen area.
Check with local authorities and transport providers for up-to-date information on entry and exit changes and delays.
You'll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) and your current Australian driver's licence to drive in Bulgaria.
If you don't have an IDP, your travel and vehicle insurance might be void.
Get your IDP before you leave Australia.
More information:
Major city streets and intercity highways are in good condition.
Driving on rural and secondary roads is hazardous due to:
Police strictly enforce traffic laws and conduct frequent checks. These include radar speed checks.
They may collect on-the-spot fines or confiscate your licence, depending on the offence.
If you drive in Bulgaria:
As of 1 January 2019, Bulgaria introduced electronic ‘vignettes’ (e-vignettes). Driving without a vignette incurs fines. You do not need to print the e-vignette, authorities will accept electronic evidence.
If you're hiring a car or other vehicle, check whether your insurance policy covers this.
More information:
Ask your travel insurer whether your policy covers you using a motorcycle, quad bike or similar vehicle.
Always wear a helmet.
Use only authorised taxi and limousine services. Try to arrange these through your hotel.
Don't hail taxis on the street. Use taxis with meters that display clear rates
Taxi drivers may overcharge, particularly at Sofia Airport and the Central Train Station.
You can find companies offering metered taxi services inside Sofia Airport.
Keep your belongings close on public transport, as petty crime happens.
The train system is poor by European standards. There have been several fires on trains.
Accessible public transport is available in Sofia and other large cities. However, it's limited in some parts of Bulgaria.
More information:
DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.
Check Bulgaria's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.
More information:
Depending on what you need, contact your:
Call 112.
Call 112 or go to a hospital.
Call 112 or go to the local police station.
Always get a police report when you report a crime.
Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.
English-speaking operators are available.
Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.
Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
The Australian Consulate in Sofia provides limited services and doesn't issue passports.
37 Trakia Street
Sofia, 1504
Bulgaria
Phone: (+359) 2946 1334
Fax: (+359) 2946 1704
Email: austcon@mail.orbitel.bg
You can get full consular help from the Australian Embassy in Greece.
Level 2
5 Hatziyianni Mexi Street
Athens 11528
Greece
Phone: +30 210 870 4000
Fax: +30 210 870 4111
Email: consular.athens@dfat.gov.au
Website: greece.embassy.gov.au
Facebook: Australia in Greece
Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.
In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:
Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.