Bulgaria remains under a state of emergency epidemic situation. How does this affect the lives of foreigners?
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The state of emergency epidemic situation in Bulgaria has been extended until 31 August due to the rise in case numbers in the country.
Citizens of the EU and some other countries (for example, Canada, Japan, Georgia and Korea) may travel to Bulgaria without certificates or quarantine. From Israel, Moldova, Kuwait, Serbia and a number of other countries, entry is possible only with a certificate showing a negative Covid-19 test result.
From 31 July, citizens of Ukraine may enter Bulgaria without presenting documents confirming a PRC test. As for Russians, they are not yet on the lists of foreigners allowed to enter Bulgaria without restrictions. But here too there are exceptions.
Thus, those who have already managed to obtain a residence permit in the country — long-term, EU long-term resident status or permanent (i.e. a long-term residence permit, EU long-term resident status or a permanent residence permit) — are allowed into Bulgaria. A 14-day quarantine in Bulgaria is mandatory in this case. It is not yet possible to cross the Bulgarian border with a type C or type D visa.
As for the actual possibilities of entering Bulgaria, they remain limited. Planes fly only to Sofia, and there are no charter flights. As for travelling by car, this is an even riskier option, since problems are possible at the EU border (most people travel via Romania), especially if the long-term residence permit has expired. With a visa, it is hardly worth even attempting a car journey.
We are waiting for the situation to improve.
How to extend a long-term residence permit under a state of emergency?
Important legislative changes for employers in connection with the state of emergency in Bulgaria
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