- The best travel insurances for Bulgaria
- Is it currently safe to travel to Bulgaria?
- Is Travel Insurance Required for Bulgaria?
- Why take out travel insurance for Bulgaria?
- What travel insurance for Bulgaria should cover
- The cost of travel insurance for Bulgaria
- How can you pay less for your travel insurance to Bulgaria?
- Will my current insurance cover me in Bulgaria?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Bulgaria: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Bulgaria covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, lost luggage, and other unforeseen events.
2. Mandatory: Insurance is mandatory for US citizens to protect them against unexpected medical and travel costs.
3. Healthcare cost: A night in a private Bulgarian hospital can cost a foreign visitor around $300 or more.
4. Price: A basic one-week travel insurance plan for Bulgaria typically costs between $25 and $50.
5. Good to know: Your US health insurance, including Medicare, likely offers no coverage for medical care in Bulgaria.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 42 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Bulgaria.
The best travel insurances for Bulgaria
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1.1M | Strong choice for comprehensive protection in Bulgaria. - high medical ceiling - repatriation included - reliable in major cities |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.1M | Suitable for travelers in urban and rural Bulgaria. - 24/7 helpline - includes trip cancellation - no deductible |
| Tourist Card | $550k | Good for sightseeing and city visits. - decent medical cover - emergency support - clear pricing |
| Travel Pass Monde | $770k | Balanced for medium-length stays in Bulgaria. - repatriation included - hospital costs covered - broad acceptance |
| Globe Partner | $330k | Useful for short to medium trips. - medical care coverage - repatriation support - civil liability included |
| Globe Traveller | $550k | Designed for travelers with moderate needs. - essential medical cover - quick reimbursement - limited coverage ceiling |
- high medical ceiling
- repatriation included
- reliable in major cities
- 24/7 helpline
- includes trip cancellation
- no deductible
- decent medical cover
- emergency support
- clear pricing
- repatriation included
- hospital costs covered
- broad acceptance
- medical care coverage
- repatriation support
- civil liability included
- essential medical cover
- quick reimbursement
- limited coverage ceiling
Is it currently safe to travel to Bulgaria?
As of June 2025, the US Department of State assesses Bulgaria as a country where travelers can exercise normal precautions, with no significant restrictions or high-level warnings in place.
Here are their four main recommendations.
- Security risks: the main issues are low-level crime and scams, especially in busy locations such as Sofia’s city center or popular tourist resorts, where incidents of pickpocketing and ATM skimming occur.
- Health risks: no vaccinations are required, and emergency services can be reached at 112. Be aware that while major cities have adequate healthcare, rural facilities may not meet US standards, and US insurance is not accepted.
- Legal requirements: travelers must hold a valid US passport with at least three months’ validity beyond their planned departure date. Stays under 90 days require no visa, but proof of medical insurance is mandatory on arrival.
- Urban risks: taxi scams and overcharging by drivers without clear meters have been reported in Sofia and other cities. Protests or demonstrations, particularly near the Parliament, may cause local disruptions.
Travel insurance is mandatory to enter Bulgaria. It must cover at minimum medical care and repatriation costs, as these expenses can be significant in case of illness or accident during your stay.
Is Travel Insurance Required for Bulgaria?
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory for US travelers to enter Bulgaria, even though a visa is not required for stays under 90 days.
To enter Bulgaria, travelers must show proof of valid medical insurance that covers the entire duration of their stay. The policy should be recognized by Bulgarian authorities and cover medical expenses and emergency care. While the minimum required coverage amount is not always specified, choosing a policy with at least 30,000 euros in coverage is strongly advised.
Why take out travel insurance for Bulgaria?
Travel insurance is a legal requirement for visiting Bulgaria. It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Bulgaria.
Healthcare in Bulgaria is generally adequate in cities like Sofia and Varna, with hospitals such as Acibadem City Clinic Tokuda Hospital offering quality care but at a high cost for foreigners. Outside major cities, medical facilities may lack modern equipment or English-speaking staff, which can lead to the need for expensive private care or emergency medical evacuation.
Travel insurance covers medical fees, hospitalization, medication, ambulance transport, and emergency repatriation to the United States in the event of a serious incident.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Bulgaria.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Acibadem City Clinic Tokuda Hospital | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 3,700 BGN (about $2,000) | up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 1,850 BGN (about $1,000) | up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | 33,000 BGN (about $18,000) | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 9,300 BGN (about $5,000) | up to 100% |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What travel insurance for Bulgaria should cover
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers emergency treatment, hospital visits, and doctor fees while in Bulgaria. We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least $100,000 for medical expenses. |
| 🚑 Emergency evacuation | Pays for ambulance or medical repatriation to the United States if needed after a serious accident or illness. A minimum of $100,000 is suggested for evacuation coverage. |
| 👨⚕️ Hospitalization | Covers overnight or prolonged hospital stays, including surgeries and intensive care. Look for policies with at least $50,000 for hospitalization. |
| 💊 Prescription medications | Reimburses costs for doctor-prescribed medications during your trip. A recommended reimbursement limit is $1,000. |
| 🛫 Trip cancellation/interruption | Covers prepaid, non-refundable expenses if you must cancel or cut your trip short for covered reasons. A limit of $2,500–$5,000 is usually enough for a trip to Bulgaria. |
| 🧳 Baggage and personal items | Compensation for baggage or valuables that are lost, stolen, or damaged. Coverage up to $1,500 is generally suitable. |
| 🦟 Infectious disease coverage | Insures costs related to hospitalization or quarantine if you contract an illness like COVID-19. Ensure your policy includes at least $5,000 for this coverage. |
| 🛡️ Personal liability | Protects you if you accidentally injure someone or cause property damage. A minimum coverage of $50,000 is recommended. |
We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least $100,000 for medical expenses.
A minimum of $100,000 is suggested for evacuation coverage.
Look for policies with at least $50,000 for hospitalization.
A recommended reimbursement limit is $1,000.
A limit of $2,500–$5,000 is usually enough for a trip to Bulgaria.
Coverage up to $1,500 is generally suitable.
Ensure your policy includes at least $5,000 for this coverage.
A minimum coverage of $50,000 is recommended.
Local providers or bank cards usually offer basic coverage only, with low reimbursement limits and frequent exclusions. It is safer to choose a reputable insurer with full protection. Compare leading options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant proof of insurance.
The cost of travel insurance for Bulgaria
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $14 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $27 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $46 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $78 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of your policy is determined by several elements. Remember to consider your age, trip duration, destination, desired coverage level, and any optional add-ons like trip cancellation. Keeping these factors in mind is crucial to selecting the right plan that fits your needs and budget without any surprises.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow can you pay less for your travel insurance to Bulgaria?
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Bulgaria while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🏥 Level of coverage | Healthcare in Bulgaria can be adequate in cities but is costly for non-residents without insurance. | Select cover matching local medical costs. Choose moderate limits to reduce premiums but never pick the lowest level. |
| 👥 Number of travelers | Group policies usually provide a lower rate per person for families or groups traveling together. | Opt for family or group insurance. Insuring everyone under a single policy often brings savings and is simpler to manage. |
| 📆 Trip duration | The longer your trip, the higher the insurance premium will be for Bulgaria. | Set policy dates for exact travel period. Avoid paying for extra days you don’t need, as this can significantly add up. |
| 💳 Payment method | Many U.S. credit cards include limited travel insurance, which can be helpful for travel within Europe. | Check your card’s coverage first. Only buy additional insurance if card protection is insufficient or not applicable. |
| 🏨 Deductible chosen | Choosing a higher deductible can greatly lower the insurance premium for Bulgaria trips. | Opt for a higher deductible. This lowers upfront costs while providing protection in case of major emergencies. |
| 👵 Traveler’s age | Prices for travel insurance often increase with age, though Heymondo maintains stable rates after 62. | Compare insurers for your age range. If over 62, check Heymondo for stable rates, as other insurers may raise prices. |
| 🧳 Type of trip | Insurance for only the planned activities keeps costs down, as Bulgaria is a destination for hiking and sightseeing. | Buy a plan covering only necessary activities. Avoid paying extra for hazardous sports or events not on your itinerary. |
Important
Travel insurance is required for travelers from the United States to visit Bulgaria, even for stays under 90 days. The insurance must cover all medical expenses for the entire duration of stay.
Will my current insurance cover me in Bulgaria?
It is reasonable to wonder if your current coverage such as public health insurance, private health insurance, or credit card benefits will protect you during a trip to Bulgaria. Unfortunately, these types of insurance are often limited or insufficient outside the United States. Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of Insurance | Valid in Bulgaria? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Health Insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No coverage abroad, no hospital or emergency medical reimbursement outside the US | Travel insurance covers up to $100,000+ for medical bills, repatriation, and local transport |
| Private Health Insurance (Aetna, Cigna, Blue Cross) | Yes, partly | Emergency medical costs with a limit under $20,000, often no repatriation or 24/7 assistance | Travel insurance offers up to $100,000+ in coverage, includes repatriation and direct payment |
| Classic Credit Card (Visa Classic, Chase Freedom) | Yes, partly | Medical cover under $2,500–$5,000, usually excludes baggage loss or trip cancellation | Travel insurance reimburses up to $100,000, handles lost baggage and trip interruptions |
| Premium Credit Card (Chase Sapphire, Amex Platinum, Mastercard World Elite) | Yes, partly | Medical cover under $25,000–$50,000, limited evacuation or hospital stay, many exclusions | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ plus wider hospital, evacuation, baggage, and interruption costs |
Example
While skiing in Bansko, Bulgaria, David suffered a complex leg fracture. The mountain rescue and surgery cost $22,000. His Chase Sapphire card's insurance had a $2,000 cap for this activity, and his standard US health plan offered no coverage abroad, leaving him with a shocking $20,000 bill.
Expert advice
Always check the terms, exclusions, and limits of your existing insurance. Critical situations, like trip interruption for a relative’s illness, might be excluded. Read the fine print carefully to avoid surprises abroad. In all cases, it's safer and more reassuring to buy dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Bulgaria?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays in Bulgaria of less than 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism or business. Your U.S. passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from Bulgaria, and proof of medical insurance is required for the duration of your visit.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Bulgaria?
Start by comparing options using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Carefully review coverage details and exclusions, making sure specific needs for Bulgaria are addressed. Choose and buy your policy securely online. You will then receive your official insurance certificate by email, which you may need to present when entering Bulgaria.
Are medical services in Bulgaria sufficient for travelers?
Medical facilities in major Bulgarian cities like Sofia and Plovdiv generally meet international standards. However, care in rural areas may be less reliable and below what you’d expect in the United States. Travel insurance is especially valuable for access to private hospitals and for covering medical evacuation costs, which can reach $20,000 or more.
Does travel insurance for Bulgaria cover theft or lost items?
Most travel insurance plans offer reimbursement for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and personal belongings, usually up to certain limits such as $1,000 to $2,500. Coverage terms vary, so read policy details and follow proper reporting procedures, like filing a police report, to support any claim.
Can I extend my travel insurance if I change my travel dates in Bulgaria?
Many travel insurers allow you to extend your policy while you are still covered, provided no new claims are pending. Be sure to request the extension online or through customer service before your initial policy expires. Extra premiums may apply depending on your age, health, and length of the extension.
Do I need proof of insurance to enter Bulgaria?
Yes, entry requirements for U.S. travelers include having valid medical insurance for the full length of your stay. Officials may request to see your insurance certificate at the border, so keep a printed or digital copy with you at all times when traveling in Bulgaria.
Do I need a visa to travel to Bulgaria?
U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays in Bulgaria of less than 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism or business. Your U.S. passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from Bulgaria, and proof of medical insurance is required for the duration of your visit.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Bulgaria?
Start by comparing options using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool. Carefully review coverage details and exclusions, making sure specific needs for Bulgaria are addressed. Choose and buy your policy securely online. You will then receive your official insurance certificate by email, which you may need to present when entering Bulgaria.
Are medical services in Bulgaria sufficient for travelers?
Medical facilities in major Bulgarian cities like Sofia and Plovdiv generally meet international standards. However, care in rural areas may be less reliable and below what you’d expect in the United States. Travel insurance is especially valuable for access to private hospitals and for covering medical evacuation costs, which can reach $20,000 or more.
Does travel insurance for Bulgaria cover theft or lost items?
Most travel insurance plans offer reimbursement for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and personal belongings, usually up to certain limits such as $1,000 to $2,500. Coverage terms vary, so read policy details and follow proper reporting procedures, like filing a police report, to support any claim.
Can I extend my travel insurance if I change my travel dates in Bulgaria?
Many travel insurers allow you to extend your policy while you are still covered, provided no new claims are pending. Be sure to request the extension online or through customer service before your initial policy expires. Extra premiums may apply depending on your age, health, and length of the extension.
Do I need proof of insurance to enter Bulgaria?
Yes, entry requirements for U.S. travelers include having valid medical insurance for the full length of your stay. Officials may request to see your insurance certificate at the border, so keep a printed or digital copy with you at all times when traveling in Bulgaria.
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