Articles
The US State Department's page on BULGARIA may be found HERE.
Personal Safety
AUTHORITIES IN BULGARIA PLAN TO TIGHTEN THE COUNTRY'S CORONAVIRUS DISEASE (COVID-19)-RELATED RESTRICTIONS DUE TO AN INCREASE IN INFECTION RATES. EFFECTIVE OCTOBER 29 THROUGH AT LEAST NOVEMBER 12, ALL HIGH SCHOOLS AND UNIVERSITIES WILL MOVE TO ONLINE CLASSES. PUBLIC EVENTS WILL BE LIMITED TO 30 PEOPLE; ALL CUTURAL AND ENTERTAINMENT EVENTS WILL BE LIMITED TO 30 PERCENT OF THE VENUE'S CAPACITY. MOST NONESSENTIAL BUSINESSES AND SERVICES HAVE BEEN PERMITTED TO RESUME OPERATION PROVIDED THEY COMPLY WITH STRICT HYGIENE AND SOCIAL DISTANCING REQUIREMENTS. PROTECTIVE FACE COVERINGS REMAIN MANDATORY IN ALL ENCLOSED PUBLIC SPACES, INCLUDING PUBLIC TRANSPORT. AIRPORTS IN THE COUNTRY REMAIN OPEN BUT ARE OPERATING ON A REDUCED SCHEDULE.
Note: this page contains basic risk information. For more details, please contact the Risk Services Office at risk@berkeley.edu.
If you are traveling to Bulgaria on University-related business, please sign up for the University’s travel insurance program by going here. For more information on the travel insurance program, please go here.
Because everyone’s health is unique, we suggest seeking the advice of a medical professional before traveling internationally. Members of the campus community interested in protecting their health while abroad may schedule an appointment with the University Health Services International Travel Clinic.
Protests occasionally occur in Bulgaria and sometimes devolve into violence. Most demonstrations are related to economic conditions, social issues, and internal political developments. Protests are most common in Sofia and occasionally cause minor transportation delays.
Nonviolent crime poses a low threat to foreign nationals. Thieves typically target luggage, wallets, purses, and smartphones. These opportunistic crimes can occur anywhere, but especially at major tourist attractions and on public transportation, particularly in higher-populated areas. Foreign nationals are typically targeted by criminals, especially if they are displaying obvious signs of wealth.
Crimes against foreign nationals are more likely to escalate late at night. Criminals often act in groups.
Credit Card fraud and ATM skimming pose a high threat in Bulgaria.
Gender-based violence and/or discrimination pose a low threat to foreign nationals in Bulgaria.
Anti-LGBT violence does systemically occur in Bulgaria. Open displays of affection between same-sex couples can elicit negative reactions.
Legal/Political
Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business. Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law.
Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately.
- Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Bulgaria are severe; convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
- Driving under the influence could land you immediately in jail.
- Bulgarian law enforcement authorities may take you in for questioning if you take pictures of certain government buildings, embassies, or military facilities.
LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Bulgaria. However, LGBTI individuals are stigmatized by society in Bulgaria and societal discrimination against LGBTI individuals is widespread. LGBTI individuals engaging in public displays of affection may attract unwelcome attention or harassment.