Conflict, insecurity, and economic instability have tormented Afghanistan for a long time. As an outcome, numerous Afghans go to nations that are more secure and more developed to improve their lives and that of their families. The European Union member country of Bulgaria has grown in popularity for several reasons.
EU membership
Afghan immigrants now have access to several advantages as a result of Bulgaria’s EU membership, including improved work possibilities, freedom of travel within the Schengen Area, and social welfare benefits.
Affordable living expenses
Bulgaria offers a lower cost of living than nations in Western Europe, including economical housing, healthcare, and education, making it a desirable alternative for immigrants looking to stretch their dollars.
Geographical area
Bulgaria is a prospective destination for people looking for transit routes to other European nations because of its strategic position at the intersection of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Legal immigration channels
Navigating Bulgaria’s immigration laws and processes is usually necessary for Afghan immigrants. The main legal options are as follows:
Refugees and asylum seekers
Afghans might apply for haven in Bulgaria on the off chance that they are getting away from oppression or viciousness at home. A successful candidate for asylum must demonstrate their need for protection throughout the application process. This awards them a refugee status, which entitles them to certain rights and benefits as well as legal residency.
The reunion of families
An Afghan immigrant may apply for family reunification if they have relatives who are already lawfully resident in Bulgaria. Close relatives may join their family members in Bulgaria via this route, providing the sponsoring family member can show they have the financial means to sustain the immigrants.
Employment
Afghans who have been offered jobs in Bulgaria can first seek a work visa and then a residency permit. Employers in Bulgaria must first demonstrate that there are no qualified local applicants for the post, preventing the displacement of local labor by foreign labor.
Study permits
Applying for study visas is possible for Afghan students pursuing higher education in Bulgaria. They need to be admitted by a Bulgarian educational institution and show that they have the resources to pay their tuition.
Visa requirements
Before visiting Bulgaria, Afghan nationals need to get a visa. Afghan citizens with passports must apply for visas at the embassy. Before entering Bulgaria, a visa application must be made at the appropriate embassy or consulate. The application may be filed at the closest Bulgarian Embassy/Consulate if there isn’t one in the applicant’s nation. A person must personally submit a visa application. In extraordinary and legitimized conditions, a visa candidate isn’t expected to apply face to face, however, should show up when requested by the Government office or Department. A visa application should be made something like three months before the expected flight date.
Documents needed for the visa
They include:
- Filled out application for Bulgaria visa.
- A passport picture that is no more than six months ago.
- Original passport or travel document issued by the nation.
- A prior passport If applicable.
- Other documents include
- Proof of travel
- Travel insurance
- Account Statement
- Evidence of accommodations
How to submit a Bulgaria visa application from Afghanistan
Afghan nationals may apply for visas to Bulgaria quickly and easily as long as the required paperwork and details are submitted correctly. Afghan nationals may be assured of a simple and hassle-free procedure for acquiring a visit visa to Bulgaria by adhering to these guidelines. To ensure that there is sufficient time for handling and to forestall any unexpected complexities, it is encouraged to apply for the visa ahead of the expected trip date. Applications might be dismissed by the Bulgarian government in light of multiple factors, like giving bogus data, neglecting to fulfill the guidelines, or having a criminal past. In these conditions, the candidate must reapply and pay the visa cost.
Gather paperwork
Collect all the essential paperwork, such as your passport and any other supporting papers, for a Bulgaria tourist visa.
Current passport
Verify that your Afghan passport is still valid for travel for at least six months after you arrive in Bulgaria. Obtain a new Afghan passport if required.
Application form
Fill out the Bulgaria application form.
Make an appointment
Make an appointment to submit your application at the Bulgarian embassy or consulate. This may be done online or by phoning the embassy or consulate.
Present documents
After filling it out, bringing the necessary paperwork with your passport, paying the fee, and submitting it to the Bulgarian embassy
Visa processing
The immigration officer will examine your passport and any further papers once you have submitted your Bulgaria visa application. Based on the information supplied in the application and the accompanying papers, the visa application will either be accepted or rejected.
Get a visa
If the application is accepted, Bulgaria will be added to the applicant’s passport, which they may pick up at the Bulgarian embassy or consulate.
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Applying for a visa to Bulgaria – full guide