Saudi Arabia E-Tourist Visa for Bulgarian Citizens – How to Apply in 2026
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From the majestic peaks of Rila and the historic charm of Plovdiv to the ancient wonders of AlUla, Bulgarian travelers are increasingly exploring the Middle East. Under the Kingdom’s "Vision 2030" initiative, the Saudi Arabia visa for Bulgaria passport holders has been fully digitized. This is a significant development for Bulgarian citizens, eliminating the need for complex paperwork and embassy visits.
This guide explains how Bulgarian citizens can apply for a Saudi Arabia e-tourist visa in 2026, including eligibility, requirements, costs, processing times, and permitted activities.
Quick Overview for Bulgarian Citizens:
Visa Type: Saudi Arabia E-Tourist Visa (Multiple Entry)
Validity: 1 Year (90 days per visit)
Application Method: 100% Online (No Embassy Visit)
Processing Time: 2–5 business days (Standard)
In 2026, the connection between the Balkans and the Arabian Peninsula is seamless. Bulgarian citizens can now apply for a Saudi e-visa from Bulgaria entirely online, bypassing the need to visit the Saudi Embassy in Sofia. Whether you are planning a holiday on the Red Sea coast, a pilgrimage, or attending business exhibitions in Riyadh, this Saudi Arabia online visa for Bulgarian citizens serves as your official entry authorization issued by the Kingdom.
At eviSAudi, we advise thousands of European travelers on entry regulations. Our application checks follow the latest MOFA and Saudi Tourism Authority guidelines, ensuring Bulgarian applicants receive accurate, up-to-date visa approvals without delays or rejections.
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Traveling from Bulgaria to Saudi Arabia with an E-Tourist Visa (Flight Routes)
For travelers departing from Sofia Airport (SOF), reaching Saudi Arabia is convenient, with several high-quality connection options tailored to different budgets:
Via Istanbul (IST): Given the geographical proximity, Turkish Airlines is the most popular choice for holders of a Saudi tourist visa from Bulgaria. Multiple daily flights connect Sofia to Istanbul, offering seamless transfers to Riyadh (RUH), Jeddah (JED), and Madinah (MED).
Via Doha (DOH): Qatar Airways operates flights from Sofia, providing a premium travel experience and a direct link to the Gulf region.
Via Abu Dhabi (AUH): For budget-conscious travelers, Wizz Air offers affordable flights from Sofia to Abu Dhabi, from where travelers can easily connect to Saudi Arabia via low-cost regional carriers.
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Financial Insights: Bulgarian Lev (BGN) to Saudi Riyal (SAR)
Understanding the currency landscape is crucial before you apply for Saudi e-visa Bulgaria. The currency in Saudi Arabia is the Saudi Riyal (SAR). A key advantage for Bulgarians is the stability of the Lev, which is pegged to the Euro.
Exchange Rate: As of 2026, the exchange rate is approximately 1 BGN ≈ 2.05 - 2.15 SAR.
Banking Advice: Bulgarian bank cards (DSK Bank, UniCredit Bulbank, Postbank) are widely accepted in Saudi Arabia. Contactless payments are standard in malls and restaurants.
Visa Payments: Please note that while your bank account is in BGN, our portal processes global visa fees in USD. Your bank will automatically handle the conversion at the current daily rate, similar to any other international online purchase.
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Saudi Arabia E-Tourist Visa Cost & Processing Time for Bulgarian Citizens
We offer a transparent, All-Inclusive fee structure specifically designed for the Saudi e-visa requirements for Bulgarian citizens. Unlike other agencies that surprise you with hidden government taxes at the last step, our fees cover the MOFA Government Fee, Mandatory Medical Insurance, and our Professional Service Fee.
Standard Processing ($185.00 USD): The preferred choice for planned holidays. Includes full document review and issuance within 2–5 business days.
Express Priority ($250.00 USD): Designed for urgent travel or last-minute business trips. We fast-track your Saudi Arabia online visa Bulgaria application directly to the Ministry via our Urgent Express Visa service for approval within 12–24 hours.
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How to Apply for a Saudi Arabia E-Tourist Visa from Bulgaria
Applying for a Saudi Arabia e-tourist visa from Bulgaria is a straightforward digital process. Bulgarian citizens are required to complete an online application form, upload the necessary documents, and submit the visa fee securely. Once approved by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Saudi e-visa is issued electronically and sent directly to the applicant’s email address.
It is important to ensure that all information matches your Bulgarian passport details exactly. Even minor spelling inconsistencies can delay approval. Starting the application with verified information significantly increases approval speed and reduces visa application processing errors.
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Saudi Arabia E-Visa Requirements for Bulgarian Passport Holders
To ensure a 100% approval rate and avoid rejection due to strict Ministry standards, Bulgarian citizens must provide the following digital items:
Valid Passport: Your Bulgaria passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended entry date into the Kingdom.
Biometric Photograph: A recent, clear, color photo with a white background. (Selfies or photos with filters are not accepted).
Travel Information: A confirmed hotel booking or the address of your host in Saudi Arabia is required to complete the Saudi e-visa Bulgaria form.
Email Address: A valid email to receive the PDF visa file.
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What Can Bulgarian Citizens Do with a Saudi E-Tourist Visa?
The Saudi Arabia e-tourist visa for Bulgarian citizens allows travel for tourism, family visits, leisure activities, and Umrah (outside the Hajj season). It is a flexible document designed for modern travelers. However, please note that employment, long-term study, or permanent residency purposes are strictly prohibited under this visa category.
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FAQ: Saudi Arabia E-Tourist Visa for Bulgarian Citizens
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Can Bulgarian citizens apply for a Saudi e-visa online in 2026?
Yes. Bulgaria is listed as a "Group A" eligible country. This means Bulgarian citizens can complete the entire process online through our portal without visiting the embassy in Sofia. The Saudi Arabia visa for Bulgarian passport holders is delivered as a PDF via email.
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Do Bulgarian citizens need a return ticket for a Saudi e-visa?
A return or onward ticket is recommended but not mandatory at the application stage. However, Saudi border officials may request proof of onward travel upon arrival, so having a return flight itinerary is strongly advised for smooth entry.
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How long is the Saudi Arabia visa valid for Bulgarian citizens?
The E-Tourist Visa is valid for 1 full year (365 days) from the date of issuance. It is a Multiple Entry visa, meaning you can fly from Sofia to Jeddah as many times as you like. However, the maximum duration of stay per visit is 90 days.
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Is travel insurance mandatory for the Saudi e-visa Bulgaria?
Yes, it is a requirement by Saudi Law. However, you do not need to buy it separately. We include the mandatory medical insurance recognized by the Council of Cooperative Health Insurance (CCHI) automatically in your $185 or $250 application fee.