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Entry and Schengen Transit: how it works in Bulgaria — first-hand

Short answer
You can enter Bulgaria using a Schengen visa issued by another EU country, but be prepared for questioning regarding your travel itinerary at border control. While German airports may apply stricter scrutiny to non-national visas, Rome generally maintains a more lenient approach.

From real experience

Travelers planning car routes from Turkey to Serbia via Bulgaria can use a Schengen visa obtained from another EU country (e.g., Greece) to enter Bulgaria.
However, be prepared for potential questioning at the border, especially if arriving by car with a visa from a country not on your direct route. Having a plausible explanation for your travel plans, such as intending to visit the visa-issuing country, is advisable.
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Determine if entry into Bulgaria is permissible with a Bulgarian Schengen visa or any other Schengen visa transiting through Germany.
Understand the German border control's scrutiny of non-national Schengen visas and historical issues with 'dubious' applications. Advise on the importance of explaining the entry route. Note that Rome generally has a more relaxed approach to border control.
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Assess the safety and potential issues of flying to Burgas via Munich with a single-entry Bulgarian visa.
Specifically, inquire about German border control procedures and potential questions upon entry. Confirm if entry is permitted given that the traveler owns property and has all necessary documents. Evaluate the risk of a 1 hour 15 minute layover with new security check procedures.
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Advise individuals with Bulgarian residency and visas who plan to travel to Italy for a week before heading to Bulgaria.
Inquire about potential issues at Rome airport and when applying for a new visa subsequently. Note that border control in Rome is generally lenient.
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