UK visitors have been banned from entering Bulgaria from today – despite it being added to the green list for quarantine-free travel.
The move came just days after the UK government said it could move to the British green list for travel with some airlines and tour operators increasing capacity to cope with any increased demand.
Operators have since suspended flights to Bulgaria following the announcement the country has barred holidaymakers from the UK with effect from July 19.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said: “From Monday 19 July the UK will be added to Bulgaria’s red list. Arrival from the UK will only be permitted for Bulgarian citizens and long-term residents.”
People from red zone countries are not allowed into Bulgaria except for a few exemptions, such as medical professionals and seasonal workers.
The nation's government put the UK on its high risk red list – along with Cyprus, Spain, Fiji and Kuwait – because of concerns about rising Covid-19 cases.
UK tour operator and airline Jet2 had planned to raise capacity to Bourgas (Sunny Beach) for the peak summer season.
But a spokesperson responded: “As a result of the Bulgarian government’s travel restrictions, we have suspended all flights and holidays to Bourgas up to and including July 31, 2021. All affected bookings will be cancelled with a full refund excluding any previous administration or cancellation fees.”
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