South African Embassy in Sofia, Bulgaria: Closure Announcement

The South African Embassy in Sofia wishes to inform the Bulgarian public and South African citizens residing in Bulgaria that the Embassy is no longer providing any Political or Consular Services.

This decision, informed by prudent fiscal considerations and the need to prioritise national resource allocation, forms part of a broader strategic realignment of South Africa’s diplomatic missions globally. Since 2021, the Republic has undertaken necessary adjustments to its international footprint to ensure fiscal sustainability while maintaining its commitment to effective multilateral engagement and bilateral partnerships.

To ensure continued collaboration, South Africa will maintain diplomatic and consular relations with Bulgaria through its resident Mission in Athens, Greece, which will assume responsibility for bilateral engagements. South African, Bulgarian and North Macedonian citizens are thus encouraged to utilise the services of the South African Embassy in Athens, Greece for all consular needs, including passport applications, visa inquiries, and other related services.

South Africa reaffirms its commitment to the people and Government of Bulgaria and will continue to engage and cooperate with the Bulgarian Embassy in South Africa.

Kindly find below contact details for the South African Embassy in Athens, Greece for all Political, Immigration and Consular Services enquiries:

South African Embassy

60 Kifissias Avenue
Marousi
15125
Athens

Tel: + 30 210 617 8020

E-mail:

athens.info@dirco.gov.za (General)
athens.consular@dirco.gov.za (Consular)

Useful Links:

South African Representation Abroad (listed alphabetically): https://dirco.gov.za/south-african-representation-abroad/

• Athens, Greece: https://dirco.gov.za/south-african-representation-abroad/

Bilateral Relations:

• Bilateral Relations pages for Bulgaria and Greece: https://dirco.gov.za/bilateral-relations/

7, Shipka Street
1000
Sofia
BULGARIA

saembassy.consular@gmail.com

Chargé d’Affaires a.i.

Ms Renske Vos

Ms Renske Vos

First Secretary

Mr Lyle Heslop

Ms Desiree Pillay

Consular Section:

The South African Embassy in Sofia, Bulgaria will also be closed on 27, 30, 31 December 2024 and 1 January 2025 - (New Years Day).