site.btaAlmost 94% of US Visa Applications Approved in 2024

The US Department of State published on Wednesday information on the percentage of denied B-1 and B-2 visitor visas for the 2024 fiscal year. In Bulgaria, this percentage was 6.02%, which marks a significant decrease compared to last year's percentage, 11.61%, and is the lowest level in the last 18 years, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

"In recent months, significant efforts have been made to fulfill the criteria for Bulgaria's inclusion in the US Visa Waiver Program. The significant reduction in the percentage of visa denials is another step forward on the path to the successful completion of this process," commented carrtaker Foreign Ivan Kondov. He noted that a bit more joint efforts are needed from the institutions and society to fulfill all the criteria. "Our goal is for Bulgaria to be included in the Program as soon as possible,” Kondov added.

One of the technical conditions for Bulgaria’s inclusion in the US Visa Waiver Program is that the percentage of denied visitor visas for Bulgarian citizens should not exceed 3%. By the end of the year, the Foreign Ministry will launch an information and training campaign to explain the conditions and process of applying for a visa to the United States.

The campaign will provide Bulgarian citizens with sufficient information, explanations and answers to frequently asked questions and practical advice that will help those of them who plan to visit the United States soon for business or tourism, the statement read.