Many foreigners living in Bulgaria or coming here from time to time register companies specifically to buy a car. Today this is considered the most advantageous way to acquire a vehicle.
Holders of a long-term residence permit can also buy a car as a private individual, but then they will have to travel to the capital regularly to renew their documents, which is not always convenient. A trip to Sofia may also be needed if problems arise with the KAT (traffic police); moreover, in that case the plates issued are not the usual ones but blue.
Registering a company is a simple procedure that takes only a few days.
After that, any purchase can be made in the name of the legal entity, whether it is land or a car. Companies must file reports annually, and in addition vehicle taxes must be paid in Bulgaria.
The car can then be used both within Bulgaria and outside the country. Some people drive home in the car, others live in Bulgaria but periodically travel around Europe or go home. In the first case, bear in mind that the car must undergo its technical inspection in Bulgaria, so you will have to bring the car into the country at least once a year.
Before driving home, it is recommended to register with your consulate in Bulgaria – this will allow you to stay in your own country for a longer period.
Crossing the border
A car belonging to a company may be driven around Bulgaria by the company’s founder as well as by his съдружници (partners). When crossing the border, the driver of a car registered to a legal entity must have a power of attorney (пълномощно) certifying that the driver is connected with the company that owns the vehicle. If the company manager is at the wheel, a power of attorney or a certificate of good standing of the company stating the manager’s name will also be required. The power of attorney must be notarised. The document is usually drawn up in Bulgarian and English – this is sufficient for visiting European countries and Turkey. If the trip is planned to countries of the former USSR, the documents should be translated into the official language of the destination country through licensed agencies.
The following documents are usually prepared to take along:
We provide a service for preparing the full package of vehicle documents needed to cross the border.
Details by phone: +359 898 766 005 or via the feedback form in the “Contacts” section
If you wish to register a company in Bulgaria, fill in the “Company registration application”, contact us via the “Contacts” section or in any other way convenient for you.
Company registration in Bulgaria
Accounting services for your company in Bulgaria.
Residence in Bulgaria (long-term residence permit)
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