Using credit cards in Bulgaria

Over the past few years the ATM network in Bulgaria has grown considerably, making it relatively easy to obtain cash from the numerous ATMs especially in major cities and resorts. The national credit/debit card operator BORICA, which all ATMs in the country are hooked up to, accepts VISA/Plus, Visa Electron, MasterCard/Cirrus, Maestro, American Express, Diners Club, and a number of other cards, including local debit cards.

ATMs can be found in banks, some hotels, garages and major stores. ATM withdrawals are certainly the easiest way to take money into Bulgaria. All withdrawals are received in Bulgarian Leva (BGN), at the inter-bank exchange rate, which is generally better than that of any change bureau. In addition, BORICA does not charge a commission fee whatsoever (at the moment), which, although quite unusual, is obviously of great advantage.

Furthermore, credit/debit cards do not have to be declared at customs, unlike cash. And last, but not least, credit/debit cards are definitely safer to carry around. Naturally, you are advised to follow some common-sense procedures, such as keeping your cards in a safe place, not sharing the card numbers, expiry dates or PINs with anyone, and abstaining from using badly-lit ATMs alone at night.

Credit or debit cards can be also used to obtain cash from all banks and most change bureaus. Those, however, usually charge commission fees for the withdrawal and/or the currency exchange. The amount of those fees varies, and is often not openly stated, so make sure you ask about it before requesting a transaction.

Unfortunately, most retailers in Bulgaria, especially those in smaller cities and rural areas, do not accept credit or debit cards yet. Only a few - particularly hotels, gas station chains, restaurants, airlines and some other retailers in bigger cities have been switching to that practice (however, be aware that paying with cards at such places can be a little more risky that obtaining cash from an ATM). It is recommended that you only use your credit/debit cards at locations that you have a reason to trust. Also, remember to keep or carefully destroy any receipts on which the full card number appears.

If you plan to use your credit/debit card(s) in Bulgaria, it is highly recommended that you contact your financial institution in advance, and inform them about your travel plans. Sometimes card usage is limited to your home country, so you should ensure that you would be able to use your cards abroad. Informing your financial institution about your travel plans in advance will also prevent the unpleasant event of your cards being cancelled due to extraordinary transactions.

To obtain cash from your credit/debit card at an ATM, you will need to use your four-digit Personal Identification Number (PIN). If your PIN consists of more than four digits, or if you do not have a PIN yet, please contact your financial institution for advice.