The Bulgaria Business Travel Guide contains a number of business related resources to help assist business travellers. In the guide there are facts on the country, useful tips and business customs and visa information. Having an appreciation and understanding of other cultures, languages, customs and etiquette can be a good advantage for business visitors helping to smooth any cultural misunderstandings and increasing the chances of having a successful business trip.
Bulgaria Guide
Quick Facts on Bulgaria
Bulgaria Travel Advice
Visa Requirements
Business Customs and Etiquette
Travel Advice and Tips
Public Holidays
Bulgaria Map
Bulgaria Weather
Quick Facts on Bulgaria
Country: Bulgaria
Capital: Sofia
Currency: Lev
Population: 7.7 Million
Area total: 111,000 sq km
Languages: Bulgarian
Time Zone: GMT (+1)
Daylight Saving Details: Starts in late March until late October
Electricity: 230V 50Hz
Dialling Code: 359
GDP: USD 44bn (2010)
Religion: Bulgarian Orthodox, Muslim.
Political System: Republic
Internet Domain: .bg
Bulgaria Travel Advice
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office offers travellers useful advice when travelling to Bulgaria. You can find entry requirements for Bulgaria, advice on local laws and customs, some tips on safety and security and the address and contact details of the British Embassy in Bulgaria. The information is usually up to date and is a good place to check to travel information and advice prior to embarking on a business or leisure visit to Bulgaria. For more information please see: Bulgaria Travel Advice
Visa Requirements
No visa requirement for national of EU member states. No visa need for US and Canadian nationals for visits less than six months. Visa requirements are subject to change with changes in requirements and rules for further information please see: Bulgaria Visas
Business Customs and Etiquette
Business meetings usually start and end with a handshake, people are addressed by their titles in a business context. It is important to maintain eye contact to ensure trust is established. It can take time to get through business meetings and for deals to be done so patience is required. There is less emphasis on deadlines and more on thoroughly covering everything issues.
Travel Advice and Tips
Vigilance is needed against pick pockets particularly in crowded places, public places and tourist areas. Personal valuables and passports should be put in a safe place away from public view. Trips to Bulgaria for business and pleasure usually go ahead without any undue concern, but it worth remembering to be alert at all times to your surroundings and environment.
Travel Checklist: See our Travel & Packing Checklist containing useful tips and reminders to ensure you have everything you will need on your trip.
Travel Vaccinations: It is recommended you check with your GP to get the latest advice on whether you require any travel vaccinations up to eight weeks before you travel. For more information and advice on travel vaccinations please see the NHS Fit for Travel website.
Tipping: If service charge is not included usually around 10 to 15%
Hours of Business:
For Business: 08.30 to 18.00; For Retail: 09.00 to 18.00
NOTE: On Fridays some businesses close earlier in the afternoon.
Public Holidays
Public Holidays (2012):
Jan 1: New Year's Day
Mar 3: Liberation Day
April 15: Easter
May 1: Labour Day
May 6: Army Day & St George’s Day
May 24: Saints Cyril and Methodius' Day - Education day
Sep 6: Day of the Union of Eastern Rumelia with the Bulgarian principality
Sep 22: Independence Day
November 1: Bulgarian revival leaders day
Dec 24: Christmas Eve
Dec 25: Christmas Day
Dec 26: Second Day of Christmas
Dec 31: New Year's Eve
Bulgaria Map
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Related Resources
Bulgaria Weather
Disclaimer: The information given in on this website is given in good faith and to the best of our knowledge. If there are any discrepancies in no way do we intend to mislead. Important travel details and arrangements should be confirmed and verified with the relevant authorities.
