Frequently Asked Questions About American Citizen Services

Does an American citizen need a visa to enter Bulgaria?
An American Citizen does not need a visa to enter Bulgaria if he/she does not intend to remain in Bulgaria for more than ninety days within six months. If he/she plans to be in Bulgaria for a longer period of time, a visa must be obtained.

How can I renew my passport? How long does it take?
Please see our online information regarding passport renewal.

How can I have extra pages inserted in my passport?
Visit the Consular Section where you will fill out form DS-4085, which is also available online. New pages will be inserted in your passport in approximately 10-15 minutes.

How do I obtain a U.S. passport for my baby who was born in Bulgaria?
Please see our online information regarding issuance of a Consular Report of Birth Abroad and regarding passport applications.

Am I required to register with the Embassy?
You are highly encouraged to complete the online registration form and keep it up to date. By registering, the State Department or Consular Section will be able to contact you in case of emergency. To register, please use the online site at https://travelregistration.state.gov. Walk-in registrations will no longer be accepted at the Embassy. Registration through the website is not considered proof of citizenship. If you apply for any American Citizen Services from the Embassy or Consular Section, you will be asked to provide proof of U.S. citizenship.

Is it safe to travel to and stay in Bulgaria and some other countries in the region?
For information on traveling conditions in Bulgaria, please click here. The Department of State posts Country Specific Information for other countries on its website.

I want to take my cat/dog (or other pet) to the U.S. What are the requirements?
Cats or dogs need to have a passport (your veterinarian can assist in getting a pet passport) and valid rabies vaccination (administered more than one month – but less than twelve months - from the date of travel). We have a web page containing the specific requirements. For other pets, please contact the Consular Section. Always contact the airline with which you will travel to inquire about their specific requirements for transportation of pets.

I need a document notarized. Do you have a Notary Public? What are your hours?
Please see our online information regarding notarial services.