Bulgaria: Authorities to modify certain COVID-19 international travel restrictions as of Feb. 1 /update 41

Event

The government of Bulgaria is implementing changes to the nation's COVID-19-related international travel restrictions effective Feb. 1. Under the new directive, the definition of so-called "red zone" countries will be amended to encompass those foreign countries experiencing COVID-19 infection rates of between 500 and 5,000 cases per 100,000 inhabitants; those with over 5,000 cases per 100,000 inhabitants will fall under the newly created category of "dark red zones."

Travelers arriving from red zone countries must present a valid EU digital COVID certificate as proof of vaccination or recovery, or a negative result from a PCR test taken no more than 72 hours prior to arrival. Those arriving from dark red zone countries, however, must present a valid EU digital COVID certificate or a similar document, in addition to a negative result from a PCR test taken no more than 72 hours prior to arrival. As of Feb. 1, the dark zone will include Israel, Switzerland, Belgium, Denmark, Portugal, Slovenia, and France. Any Bulgarian citizens or residents and their families arriving from a dark red location who do not possess both of the required documents are allowed to enter but must self-isolate for 10 days upon arrival.

Domestic Measures
Authorities have extended the existing COVID-19-related state of emergency (SoE) and associated domestic restrictions until at least March 31. The SoE allows authorities to modify restrictions and allocate resources on short notice.

Individuals must present a valid digital or paper COVID-19 certificate to enter indoor public spaces, including restaurants, cinemas, gyms, and shopping malls. The certificate must indicate proof of full vaccination against COVID-19, recent recovery from the disease, or a negative result from a PCR or antigen test taken within the previous 72 or 48 hours, respectively.

In addition, mass events remain suspended. Indoor private events may not exceed 15 people, while outdoor private events may not exceed 30 people. Wearing a facemask is required in indoor public spaces as well as in outdoor areas where social distancing of at least 1.5 meters (5 feet) is not possible.

International Travel Restrictions
Until the new regulations go into force on Feb. 1, authorities in Bulgaria continue to classify countries as green, orange, or red based on local disease activity and apply various entry restrictions accordingly. Requirements for entry by travelers from green and orange countries will remain unchanged; such individuals can enter Bulgaria upon presenting a valid EU Digital COVID certificate or similar document confirming vaccination against COVID-19, recovery from COVID-19, or a recent negative test result. Travelers arriving from a green or orange location without such documentation must undergo a 10-day quarantine period upon arrival, which may be ended following receipt of a negative result from a PCR or antigen test taken no earlier than 72 hours after arrival. Individuals arriving from orange locations may be subject to rapid antigen testing upon arrival.

Individuals traveling from red countries are generally prohibited from entering Bulgaria. Entry from red countries is only permitted for citizens of the UK, Switzerland, EEA-associated countries, and selected third countries and their families traveling from those locations, as well as persons traveling for specific essential purposes. Individuals arriving from red locations may be subject to rapid antigen testing upon arrival. To view a regularly updated list of countries by color designation, click here.

Children up to the age of 12 and travelers transiting Bulgaria are exempt from providing COVID-19-related documentation.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.

Resources

Bulgaria Coronavirus Portal (Bulgarian)
Schengen Area countries