The import and exchange of currency into Bulgaria is not restricted. If the total amount of imported currency (local or foreign) exceeds 5000 BGN, it must be entered in the customs declaration. There is no mandatory exchange. Currency export from Bulgaria must not exceed the amount indicated in the declaration upon entry.
Over 20000 BGN (or equivalent in foreign currency) can be taken out with the permission of the Bulgarian National Bank. Unspent BGN can be exchanged before leaving Bulgaria. For this purpose, a certificate of initial exchange from an exchange bureau must be submitted. Jewelry, video cameras, computers and other expensive items are subject to declaration.
From what you can take to Bulgaria by air duty free, we can mention:
- coffee up to 500 g
- tea up to 100 g
- spirits 50 ml
- odecolon and other perfumes up to 250 ml
- cigarettes up to 200 pcs
- tobacco products up to 250 g
- gifts in reasonable quantities
From what is forbidden to bring into Bulgaria, we can mention non-canned foodstuffs. To avoid unnecessary misunderstandings, if you have jewelry, photo, film and video cameras, portable typewriters or laptops, indicate them in the declaration when entering the country.
It is forbidden to take out of Bulgaria objects and things of historical, artistic or archaeological value, for this you need a special permit. When leaving the country, your own valuables must be entered in the declaration.
How much alcohol can be brought into Bulgaria? Thus, foreigners can bring into Bulgaria up to 2 liters of wine, and up to 1 liter of spirits. How much alcohol you can take out of Bulgaria depends on the customs conditions of the country you will be entering.
The Tax Free system in Bulgaria is in effect. Foreign tourists are entitled to a refund of the value added tax paid (20%) on goods bought in the country when leaving it. Purchases must be made in one store, marked with the appropriate logo, for an amount not less than 1000 BGN. So it is rarely used. Moreover, local products are inexpensive, and there is practically no point in buying foreign brands.
To make a VAT refund, you need to present your passport, a receipt from the store and goods in undamaged packaging at the customs point. VAT refunds can be made at the airports of Burgas, Varna, Sofia and at the office of E&S tax services in Sofia.
