Bulgaria, as an EU member, applies standard EU duty-free allowances for non-resident adults arriving from outside the EU. The most important rule: you may bring 1 litre of spirits (over 22% ABV) or 2 litres of wine/beer, 200 cigarettes or 250g of tobacco, and personal goods up to €430 (approx. 840 BGN) duty-free. Cash of €10,000 or more (or equivalent in any currency) must be declared. These rules are current for 2026.
Duty-free allowances
Alcohol
1.0 L
1 litre of spirits over 22% ABV, OR 2 litres of wine/beer (under 22% ABV). Traveller must be 18+.
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$10,000
Any amount of €10,000 or more (or equivalent in any currency, including BGN) must be declared in writing to customs upon arrival. This includes cash, traveller's cheques, and negotiable instruments. As of 2026, €10,000 ≈ USD 10,900, but the threshold is fixed at €10,000.
Goods duty-free
$470
Personal goods and gifts up to a total value of €430 (approx. 840 BGN, ~USD 470) are duty-free for non-residents arriving from outside the EU. For air and sea travellers, the limit is €430; for land travellers, €300. If the value exceeds this, duty is charged on the full amount. Note: the USD equivalent fluctuates; check current exchange rates.
Prohibited — banned from import
Narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances (except with a medical prescription and permit)
Weapons, ammunition, and explosives (including pepper spray and stun guns without a permit)
Endangered species and products (CITES-listed animals, plants, ivory, furs) without a permit
Counterfeit goods and pirated items (including fake brand clothing, electronics, and media)
Pornographic material (including digital files) deemed obscene under Bulgarian law
Certain meats and dairy products from non-EU countries (unless accompanied by official veterinary certificate)
Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration
Medicines containing controlled substances (e.g., codeine, morphine) – require a doctor's prescription and a personal use declaration
Firearms and ammunition – require a Bulgarian import permit from the Ministry of Interior
Plants, seeds, and soil – require a phytosanitary certificate from the country of origin
Drones (unmanned aircraft) – must be registered with the Bulgarian Civil Aviation Administration; operation requires a permit
Cultural heritage items (antiques, artworks over 50 years old) – require an export permit from the National Institute of Cultural Heritage
Rules worth knowing
EU vs. Non-EU Origin Matters
If you are arriving from another EU country, there are no duty-free limits on goods for personal use (within reason). The allowances above apply only when entering Bulgaria directly from a non-EU country. Always keep receipts to prove origin.
Tobacco and Alcohol Age Limit
You must be at least 18 years old to bring in tobacco or alcohol duty-free. Customs officers may ask for ID. If you are under 18, you cannot claim the duty-free allowance for these items.
Cash Declaration is Mandatory
Any person entering or leaving Bulgaria with €10,000 or more in cash (or equivalent) must complete a written declaration. Failure to declare can result in seizure of the cash and a fine of up to 25% of the undeclared amount.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, for personal use. Carry a doctor's prescription (in English or Bulgarian) and keep medicines in original packaging. For controlled substances (e.g., strong painkillers), you may need a permit from the Bulgarian Drug Agency – check at least 30 days before travel.
You must declare the excess on the customs form. Duty will be charged on the full amount above the allowance. For example, if you bring 2 litres of spirits, duty applies to the second litre. Rates vary by alcohol type; expect around 1-2 BGN per litre of spirits.
No, personal electronics for your own use are generally not subject to duty. However, if you are carrying high-value items (e.g., multiple laptops), customs may ask for proof they are for personal use and not for resale. Keep receipts or proof of ownership.
From EU countries: yes, any food for personal use. From non-EU countries: you may bring limited quantities of certain foods (e.g., up to 2kg of fruit, 1kg of meat, 1kg of dairy) if accompanied by a veterinary certificate. Banned items include raw meat and milk from most non-EU countries.
There is no limit on BGN cash, but any amount equivalent to €10,000 or more must be declared. The same applies to any currency. If you are carrying less than €10,000, no declaration is needed.
If you fail to declare €10,000 or more, customs can seize the entire amount and impose a fine of up to 25% of the undeclared sum. In serious cases, criminal charges may apply. Always fill out the declaration form at the red channel or ask a customs officer.
For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Bulgarian Customs Agency (Агенция 'Митници') before travelling.