Bulgaria confirms no stricter visa rules for Russian citizens after Schengen membership

Bulgaria has confirmed that it does not plan to impose stricter visa requirements for Russian citizens following its upcoming membership in the Schengen Area.

Miroslav Komarov, Head of the Consular Service at the Bulgarian Embassy in Moscow, made the announcement, stating that no changes in visa issuance procedures are expected, Caliber.Az report per Russian media.

Komarov's remarks came after the European Union's interior ministers officially approved the abolition of border controls between Bulgaria, Romania, and the Schengen zone, a move set to take effect on January 1, 2025.

"There will be no stricter procedures for visa issuance," Komarov said, responding to concerns about potential shifts in Bulgaria's immigration policies.

When asked about the potential impact on tourism, Komarov suggested that it was too early to make predictions regarding an increase in Russian visitors. "It is still premature to assess the situation, particularly regarding tourist visas during the peak season from April to October 2025," he added.

Bulgaria's accession to the Schengen Area is expected to simplify travel across the EU, but it remains unclear how this will affect tourist numbers from Russia in the near future.

To recall, the European Union has approved Bulgaria and Romania to join the Schengen Area as full members from the start of next year. Hungarian Minister of the Interior, Sandor Pinter, called the decision a “historic moment” at a ministers’ meeting on December 12. 

The move follows a 13-year journey for the two nations, which were granted access after Austria lifted its veto over concerns about undocumented immigration.

Romanian President Klaus Iohannis welcomed the move as a “natural and necessary step,” highlighting its potential to reduce border waiting times, cut logistical costs, and attract foreign investment.

Romania had previously been granted partial access to the Schengen Area in March, with air and maritime border checks lifted, though land borders remained restricted.

By Aghakazim Guliyev