Blog on living and doing business in Bulgaria
Law explainers, statistics and news for anyone applying for residence, registering a company or buying property in Bulgaria.
Changes to the validity periods of personal documents in Bulgaria
On 24 March, Bulgaria adopted a law on the state of emergency. Among other things, it provides for changes concerning the validity periods of Bulgarian documents – both for citizens of the country and for foreigners.
How to register a car in Bulgaria for export and subsequent sale in another country?
Cars in Bulgaria are relatively inexpensive (especially used ones), so many people consider buying a vehicle with a view to selling it later in another country. Let us look at what this involves.
How to exchange your driving licence for a Bulgarian one?
In Bulgaria you may drive on a Russian or Ukrainian licence for one year after entering the country (Закон За Движението по пътищета, art. 162(2)). If you wish, you can periodically travel abroad and then return to Bulgaria again.
Permanent residence permit / EU long-term resident status obtained. How do you get medical care now?
Those who hold a temporary residence permit in Bulgaria buy compulsory medical insurance for foreigners. Once permanent status is obtained, it becomes possible to use the state health insurance system in Bulgaria. What does that require?
Statute of limitations on debts to the National Revenue Agency (NAP)
Sometimes people only find out about their debts after their personal bank accounts are frozen. Other restrictive measures are also possible, for example seizure of a car.
Can a company in Bulgaria be transferred to another person if it has outstanding debts?
Closing a company in Bulgaria is quite difficult and time-consuming, so owners often choose a simpler option – transferring the OOD to another person. Is it possible to get rid of a company this way? Yes, it is, but if the company has any unfulfilled obligations (for example, unpaid loans), there is a risk of complications.
Filing a declaration of a Bulgarian long-term residence permit/citizenship with the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs
Fines for Russian citizens who fail to file declarations of a long-term residence permit or second citizenship on time have become more frequent recently. In which cases must you notify the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs in order to avoid unpleasant consequences?
Invitation to Bulgaria for a foreign national
Grounds are required to obtain a short-term Bulgarian visa. This may be, for example, an invitation from a Bulgarian citizen or from a foreign national residing in Bulgaria long term.
Opening accounts with Bulgarian banks
Foreigners in Bulgaria set up companies not only to do business, but also to buy land or register a car. A legal entity must have a bank account – this is one of the conditions for registering a company. At this stage many people run into difficulties.