Same-sex couples are banned from adopting in Bulgaria. However, single individuals regardless of sexual orientation are allowed to adopt, though requests from single men are rarely accepted. Lesbian couples do not have access to IVF and artificial insemination, as it is only available to married opposite-sex couples. Nevertheless, since 2004, single lesbian women have had access to IVF.

The ability for same-sex couples to legally adopt a child.

The difference between legal age of consent for homosexual sex and heterosexual sex.

Gay and bisexual men are not explicitly banned from donating blood in Bulgaria. However, the blood donor application form, required prior to any blood donation, does not ask the applicant to disclose that information, rather requires them to confirm that they did not partake in practices (sexual included) that increase the risk of HIV or other STIs. The consent form is detailed in an ordinance issued by Bulgaria's Ministry of Healthcare on 19 July 2004.

The ability for MSMs (men who have sex with men) to donate blood or tissue for organ transplants. A deferral period refers to a waiting time before a man can donate after having sex.

No official censorship since the fall of communism in 1991. Will likely be condemned if brought back 

Censorship or prohibition of discussing, promoting, or teaching LGBTQ+ topics in media, schools, and in the general public.

During the communist era in Bulgaria, which lasted from 1946 to 1989, the government promoted a highly controlled and regulated society, which extended to matters related to LGBT rights. Homosexuality was criminalized under Article 157 of the Bulgarian Penal Code, which remained in place until 1968. 
 
During this time, discussions or expressions of LGBT-related topics were generally suppressed, and any attempt to advocate for LGBT rights could face censorship and persecution by the government. This was part of the broader censorship and control exerted by the communist regime over various aspects of society, including the media, literature, and public discourse.

The current law does not provide for the possibility for the court to allow the change of the data regarding the gender, name and uniform civil number in the acts of civil status of an applicant who claims to be transgender,” the decision states. Since February 21st 2023 by the supreme court of Bulgaria. However, there are still protections but limited protections. 

Legal recognition of sex reassignment by permitting a change of legal gender on an individual's birth certificate.

Requires sterilization. Ruled not legal by EU. Changes pending. Missing non binary options on documents.

Conversion therapy in Bulgaria is not banned. It is widely condemned however 

Legal status of conducting sexual orientation changing therapy ("ex-gay" therapy)

Discrimination in bulgaria is illegal. Recently Bulgaria has stepped up against anti lgbtq discrimination with new legislation 

Prohibition of discrimination based on sexual orientation and/or gender identity.

In 2015, the National Assembly amended the definition of "sex" in the law to include cases of gender change.[20] Transgender people who have not undergone a legal gender change could use "gender" from the list of protected grounds. Gender expression and gender identity are not explicitly mentioned in the revised Act. 
 
For other mods please check sources if it is wrong please change it but check sources first as this seems it is correct. Cheers!

Prohibition of discrimination based on sexual orientation and/or gender identity in employment, including hiring, promotion, termination, harassment, etc.

Medical and psychological support designed to help individuals transition to the gender they identify with, including hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and surgeries.

Since 1968, homosexual activity in Bulgaria had been legal

Consensual sexual activity between individuals of the same sex.

Bulgaria has recently been stepping up against lgbtq+ discrimination. Widely supported legislation 

Prohibition of discrimination based on sexual orientation and/or gender identity when applying for housing or discrimination by landlords / property owners.

Medical interventions performed on intersex infants to alter their genital appearance to conform to typical male or female standards, often without the informed consent of the child who is too young to participate in the decision-making process.

Article 46 of The Constitution of Bulgaria (1991) defines marriage as a “free union between a man and a woman.” Currently, Bulgaria has only recognized 1 gay marriage after a court ruling, but only 1 being recognized and none other does not mean they recognize foreign gay marriages.

Marriage and marriage recognition between two people of the same biological sex and/or gender identity.

Only 22 Countries allow transgender service Bulgaria is not one of them. 

The ability for homosexuals to serve in the military and be open about their sexuality.

Legal recognition of non-binary, genderqueer, or third gender identities.

Bulgaria

Hotels

Bars & Clubs

Gay Sofia

Gay Varna

Gay Varna Guide 2024 - gay bars, clubs, saunas & more

Varna

Check In

Check Out

Guests

Destination

  Browse a selection of tours in Varna from our
                partners with free cancellation 24 hours before your tour
                starts.

Gay Varna

About Varna

Varna Tours