You do not need a visa for Netherlands if you have a Bulgarian passport

No visa needed

Bulgarian citizens can enter Netherlands without applying for a visa in advance. Check your passport validity and any onward-travel requirements before you fly.

Travelling to Netherlands Visa-free

Frequently asked questions

No. Bulgarian citizens can enter Netherlands without applying for a visa in advance.

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What Netherlands may ask for

Not every traveller is asked for all of these. A valid passport is checked every time; the rest is a spot check at the border, and some items belong to a visa application rather than the crossing itself.

  • Passport valid 3+ months beyond planned departure with 2 blank pages
  • Biometric photo: 35x45mm, white background, recent within 6 months
  • Travel insurance covering minimum 30,000 EUR medical expenses
  • Confirmed hotel reservations or host invitation letter
  • Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements, employment letter)
  • Round-trip flight reservation or detailed travel itinerary

Entry requirements for Bulgarian travellers

These rules apply specifically to Bulgarian passport holders entering Netherlands as tourists. Each one links to the official source where available.

  • Required

    A travel document is required to enter Netherlands by air

    Travelers need a valid passport or national ID card to enter Netherlands by air.

    European Union Last checked 2026-07-14
  • May be required

    Entry/Exit System (EES) new digital passport control at European borders

    The EU Entry/Exit System (EES) is a new digital border process for non-EU nationals traveling for a short stay (up to 90 days within 180 days). No advance action is required. Travelers should allow additional time at passport control, especially during busy travel seasons. At passport control, travelers provide a facial photo and/or fingerprints. Passports are no longer stamped. Self-service kiosks may be available at some airports and border entries.

    • This requirement doesn’t apply to the following travelers: -EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals; -Nationals of Andorra, Monaco, and San Marino; -Holders of Vatican City or Holy See passports; -Holders of residence permits or long-stay visas; -Family members of EU nationals holding a residence card; -UK nationals and family members holding valid Brexit Withdrawal Agreement residence documents issued by their host EU member state. Check the source for more details and a full list of exemptions.
    Entry/Exit System Last checked 2026-07-14
  • Not required

    Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is not required for Netherlands

    Travelers don’t need proof of COVID-19 vaccination before traveling to Netherlands.

    Last checked 2026-07-14
  • Not required

    Proof of pre-departure COVID-19 test is not required

    Travelers don’t need a COVID-19 test before traveling to Netherlands.

    Last checked 2026-07-14
  • Not required

    Transit visa is not required

    International travelers do not need a visa to transit through Netherlands.

    Last checked 2026-07-14
  • May be required

    Entry requirements for traveling with pets (dogs and cats)

    Travelers should check with their airline for pet transport requirements before traveling, as policies differ. Dogs and cats traveling into the EU from outside the EU must meet entry requirements that vary by country of origin. Pets must be microchipped and vaccinated against rabies. Additional requirements may apply depending on where travel originates. Travelers can check the specific requirements for their country of origin on the EU government's pet travel page. Travelers bringing other animals should check the national rules of their destination country directly.

    EU Pet Entry Requirements Last checked 2026-07-14

A look at Netherlands