Population: 7 450 349
Capital: Sofia
Languages: Bulgarian
Area: 110 910 sq. km.
Currency: Leva (BGN)
Exchange rate: £1 = 2.81 leva
Dialing code: +359
Emergency services: 150
Embassy in UK: www.bulgarianembassy.org.uk
How to get there:
There are a lot of direct flights all year round to the capital of Bulgaria - Sofia, from regional UK airports. Low cost direct flights to some of the most attractive destinations such as Varna on the northern Black Sea coast are also available during high season. Off-season connecting flights from Sofia are currently needed.
Healthcare:
All foreigners are obliged to have medical insurance, but UK citizens can receive free medical and dental care. However, since the Bulgarian healthcare system is considerably different than the UK one, private healthcare services are strongly recommended.
Visa and Residency issues:
In any six-month period, UK citizens can spend up to 30 days in Bulgaria without a visa or permit. Those who would like to visit Bulgaria more frequently or spend longer periods of time in the country need a Type C visa, available from the Bulgarian embassy in the UK. Anyone spending more than 30 days in Bulgaria at any one time must also have a foreign identity card, which can be obtained through local Bulgarian authorities.