Bulgaria

Singaporeans can visit Bulgaria for up to 90 days – within 180 days from their initial date of entry into Bulgaria – without a visa, provided that no employment is sought. Travellers should note that Bulgaria is not part of the Schengen Area, but holders of valid Schengen visas have the right to enter in reside in Bulgaria for a period of no more than 90 days in any 180-day period from the date of the first entry, without needing to have a Bulgarian short-stay visa.

As immigration requirements can change at short notice, travellers are advised to contact their travel agent or the Embassy of Bulgaria in Jakarta (embassy.jakarta@mfa.bg, +62 21 390 4048, +62 21 391 3130, or in case of emergency, +62 81296000691), which also covers Singapore, for the latest information.

Please note that due to COVID-19, all consular services offered by the Bulgarian Embassy in Jakarta are by prior appointment (by phone or email) only. For more information, please visit https://www.mfa.bg/en/embassyinfo/indonesia. 

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, does occur. Be aware of your surroundings and take care of your belongings. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or wearing jewellery. If you are driving, lock your vehicle and keep your belongings out of sight. Thieves have been known to puncture tires and steal items when they ‘offer assistance’ to foreigners. Break-ins at hotel rooms have occurred; ensure all windows and doors are locked before leaving each day. 

Credit card fraud is common. Keep your credit card in sight when performing transactions. Check ATMs for card skimming devices. Travellers have been charged exorbitant prices, especially in night clubs and bars. Ensure that credit card charges are accurate before signing, keep all receipts, and verify against your credit card statements.

Use metered taxis with clearly marked rates as taxi drivers are known to overcharge unwary travellers. 

Drug offences carry heavy penalties. Pack your own luggage and do not accept ‘gifts’ from strangers or new acquaintances. 

Drunken behaviour is also dealt with severely. Avoid disorderly behavior in public.

It is illegal to wear clothing that partially or fully covers one’s face in public. Offenders can be fined. 

It is illegal to photograph some buildings. If in doubt, check with the local authorities. 

Driving: Headlights must be switched on at all times, even during the day. Exercise caution while driving, especially at night as many roads are in poor condition and are often dimly-lit. There is a zero-tolerance policy for driving under the influence of alcohol. To drive on toll roads, travellers need to purchase a special sticker from a post office, petrol station, large banks or at the border. Failure to display a valid sticker may result in a fine. In the winter months, cars must be properly equipped (e.g. snow chains, winter tyres). Purchase travel insurance that covers vehicle incidents before departure.

Overseas Travel – Be Informed & Be Safe [Updated on 5 February 2024]

Singaporeans planning overseas travel are reminded to take the necessary precautions, including being prepared to deal with accidents, natural disasters or terrorist attacks. Singaporeans are also reminded to be familiar with your destination’s local laws, customs, and COVID-19 regulations.

Demonstrations do occur in major cities across the world. Such demonstrations can sometimes escalate into violence. It is important for Singaporeans to keep abreast of local news, avoid any protests or demonstrations and heed the advice of the local authorities.

When participating in outdoor leisure activities overseas, Singaporeans should be mindful that certain sporting activities, especially in open seas, may carry risks. Besides ensuring that one has the physical competencies and appropriate condition to undertake the activity, every effort should be made to ascertain if the trip organiser or guide is reliable and competent, and that appropriate safety and contingency plans are in place. When in doubt, Singaporeans should consult the relevant professional bodies or sporting associations for specific advice.

For those planning to travel, here are some tips:

Before travelling

• Familiarise yourself with our network of overseas missions.
• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance and be familiar with the terms and coverage.
• Equip yourself with research about your destination’s entry requirements, current situation, local laws and customs.
• eRegister with us on our website (www.mfa.gov.sg) so that we may reach out to you during an emergency.

While travelling

• Always take care of your personal safety, remain vigilant and monitor local weather news, advisories, and security developments.
• Exercise caution around large gatherings and avoid locations known for demonstrations or disturbances.
• Be prepared for possible delays and last-minute changes in travel plans especially during unforeseen events such as natural disasters, social unrest or terror attacks.
• Stay connected with your friends and family. Inform them of your whereabouts and provide them with your overseas contact details.
• In the event that you require consular assistance, please contact the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.

Advisory: Email Scams

There have been reports of individuals receiving scam emails/messages purportedly sent from friends in distress overseas. These emails/messages typically originate from an email address/social media known to the receiver bearing claims of the sender getting into trouble overseas and urgently requesting financial assistance. The sender would also claim to have approached a Singapore Embassy/Consulate and the local Police for help to no avail.

MFA takes the safety of all Singaporeans very seriously.  Singaporeans in distress approaching our Overseas Missions for assistance will be rendered with all necessary consular assistance.  If you receive such emails/messages from purported friends seeking funds transfers, we strongly advise you to call them first to verify the authenticity of the emails/messages before responding to their request.  It is also not advisable to give out any personal information such as NRIC/passport numbers, address, telephone number, etc.  Any form of reply, even one of non-interest, could result in more unsolicited emails.  Members of the public who suspect that they have fallen prey to such scams should report the matter to the Police immediately.  Should Singaporeans abroad require consular assistance, they can contact the nearest Singapore Overseas Mission or call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 24-hr Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/+65 6379 8855.