National ID card renewal in Bulgaria
Renewing a Bulgarian national ID card typically involves submitting an application and required documents at a local police station or district office of the Ministry of Interior. A new card will be issued, replacing the expiring or expired one.
It is advisable to apply for a new ID card within 30 days before its expiration date. This allows sufficient time for processing and avoids potential inconveniences that may arise from using an expired document, such as issues with banks or other administrative services. Standard processing times vary, and there are options for expedited services at a higher fee.
Start 30 days ahead
This is the standard processing time for a regular service application. Faster services (e.g., 3-day or 24-hour) are available for an additional fee.
The process
- 1Locate the nearest Passport and Administrative Services (ПАСПОРТНА И АДМИНИСТРАТИВНА СЛУЖБА - ПАС) unit of the Ministry of Interior.
- 2Visit the office in person to submit the application and necessary documents.
- 3Present the current national ID card (even if expired).
- 4Have a digital photo taken on-site as part of the application process.
- 5Pay the applicable state fee.
- 6Receive a document confirming the application and expected pick-up date.
- 7Collect the new national ID card from the same office on or after the specified date.
What to bring
- Current national ID card (лична карта)
- Payment for the state fee
Who handles it
Министерство на вътрешните работи (Ministry of Interior)
The standard fee for issuing a national ID card is generally around 18 BGN for regular service (up to 30 days) for most adult citizens. Expedited services (e.g., up to 3 working days or 24 hours) incur higher fees, which can range from approximately 36 BGN to 90 BGN respectively. Specific fee details should be confirmed with the Ministry of Interior or its local offices, as they can vary based on age, service type, and any applicable discounts.
What commonly goes wrong
- Ensure to apply at an appropriate office. While typically the permanent address, applications can sometimes be made at any regional PASP unit.
- Be aware that children under 18 applying for their first ID card, or renewing, generally require the presence of both parents or a legal guardian.
- Processing times can vary, especially during peak periods, so it's wise to apply well in advance of the expiry date.
- If the old ID card is lost, stolen, or severely damaged, additional declarations or procedures might be required.
Sources
This guide is based on one official source.
Other documents in Bulgaria
National ID card renewal in other countries
Often renewed together
Don't rely on remembering
Add this document to Duratum and we'll tell you when to start, and remind you before it matters.