Border Police - Varna Airport

Be prepared for border control at Varna Airport (VAR). This guide explains immigration procedures, customs allowances, and what documents you need when entering Bulgaria.

Immigration & Passport Control

As Bulgaria is part of the Schengen Area, travellers from other Schengen countries pass through simplified controls. Non-Schengen arrivals must go through full passport control with document verification.

• Keep your passport, visa, and boarding pass readily accessible
• Automated e-gates may be available for eligible passport holders
• Answer border officers' questions clearly and truthfully

Customs Regulations

After collecting your baggage, you will pass through the customs area. Declare any goods exceeding the duty-free allowances. Failure to declare can result in fines or confiscation.

• Tobacco: typically 200 cigarettes or 250 g of tobacco for non-EU arrivals
• Alcohol: usually 1 litre of spirits or 2 litres of wine
• Cash: declare amounts exceeding €10,000 (or equivalent in Lev bulgare (BGN))
• Prohibited items: drugs, weapons, counterfeit goods, certain food products

Useful Advice

If you are travelling with valuable electronics, medication, or large sums of money, carry supporting documentation. For prescription medicine, bring a doctor's letter. Customs officers at Varna Airport (VAR) have the right to inspect luggage and may ask questions about the contents of your bags.