Published: 26.02.2026
Under the EU summary of the Schengen Borders Code, Bulgaria and Romania became full members of the Schengen area on 1 January 2025. Common external-border entry conditions apply, including a valid travel document, a visa where required, proof of the purpose of stay and sufficient means of subsistence; internal border checks are generally absent within the area.
According to the EU source, Bulgaria has been subject to the common Schengen framework since 1 January 2025. For third-country nationals, this means common external-border requirements, including document checks, visa-data checks where applicable and the conditions for short stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Internal movement within the Schengen area is generally possible without border checks, although controls may be temporarily reintroduced in exceptional circumstances. This is important for anyone entering through Bulgaria, traveling across the EU or using Bulgaria as part of a relocation route.