Quick answer
In Bulgaria, invoices must include specific mandatory elements such as a unique invoice number, issue date, supplier and customer details, VAT information, tax base, and total amount due. Invoices are generally issued within 5 days of supply or payment and must be retained for at least 10 years to comply with Bulgarian VAT and accounting regulations.
Doing business in Bulgaria means complying with specific invoicing rules set out under Bulgarian VAT and accounting legislation. This guide provides a practical overview of invoice requirements in Bulgaria, helping businesses issue compliant invoices and avoid penalties.
(This article was originally published in 2012 and has been reviewed and updated multiple times. The current version reflects legislation and administrative practice in force as of January 2026.)
Essential Elements of a Bulgarian Invoice
Every invoice issued in Bulgaria must include the following mandatory elements:
- Invoice title
The document must clearly be labeled as “Invoice” (Фактура). - Unique invoice number
A unique, consecutive number using Arabic numerals. Different numbering sequences may be used for separate branches, projects, or activities. - Date of issue
The date on which the invoice is issued. - Supplier information
- Full legal name
- Registered business address
- Unique Identification Code (UIC/BULSTAT)
- VAT registration number (if VAT registered)
- Recipient information
- Full legal name
- Address
- UIC/BULSTAT (where applicable)
- VAT number (if VAT registered)
- Description of goods or services
A clear and specific description of what is supplied. - Quantity and unit price
The quantity supplied and the unit price, where applicable. - Tax base
The value of the goods or services before VAT. - VAT rate
The applicable VAT rate (e.g. 20%, 9%, or 0%). - VAT amount
The calculated VAT amount. - Total amount payable
The total amount due, including VAT. - Date of supply or payment
If different from the invoice issue date.
Recent Changes and Important Notes
Euro adoption (effective 1 January 2026)
As of 1 January 2026, Bulgaria has adopted the euro (EUR) as its official currency. Invoices issued after this date must comply with euro-based accounting and VAT rules. During the transition period, additional requirements such as dual display and rounding rules may apply, depending on the transaction.
Electronic invoicing
Bulgaria is progressing toward broader use of electronic invoicing. While full mandatory e-invoicing does not yet apply to all businesses, companies should monitor developments and ensure their accounting systems are prepared.
No signature or stamp required
Invoices no longer require a handwritten signature or company stamp to be valid.
Foreign currency invoices
Invoices may still be issued in a foreign currency. However, where VAT is due in Bulgaria, the tax base and VAT amount must be shown in euro using the applicable Bulgarian National Bank exchange rate on the invoice date.
Useful Tips for Bulgarian Invoicing
- Timely issuance
Invoices must generally be issued within 5 days of the supply of goods or services or receipt of payment, whichever occurs first. - Clear payment terms
State payment deadlines clearly (e.g. “Payment due within 30 days”). - Corrections
Errors must be corrected using a credit note or correction document that clearly references the original invoice. - Record retention
Copies of issued and received invoices must be retained for at least 10 years. - Simplified invoices
Simplified invoices may be issued for low-value transactions, subject to statutory thresholds and conditions. - Accurate bookkeeping
Proper bookkeeping is essential for managing invoices and VAT reporting. For more context, see our guide: Bookkeeping in Bulgaria: An Essential Guide for Business Owners.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is electronic invoicing mandatory in Bulgaria?
Bulgaria is gradually expanding the use of electronic invoicing. While it is not yet mandatory for all businesses, companies should stay informed and prepare their systems for future requirements.
2. What are the penalties for incorrect invoices?
Invoices with missing or incorrect information may result in fines or other administrative penalties. The level of penalty depends on the nature and severity of the breach.
3. Can invoices be issued in a foreign currency?
Yes. However, when VAT is due in Bulgaria, the taxable amount and VAT must be shown in euro using the official exchange rate on the invoice date.
4. What should I do if I make a mistake on an invoice?
You must issue a credit note or correction document referencing the original invoice and clearly stating the correction.
5. How long must invoices be kept?
Bulgarian law requires invoices to be retained for a minimum of 10 years, regardless of whether they are issued electronically or on paper.
6. Where can I find official guidance on invoicing rules?
Official guidance is published by the Bulgarian National Revenue Agency. For case-specific interpretation, professional accounting or tax advice is recommended.
Additional Resources
For a broader overview of Bulgarian accounting, tax, and compliance topics, visit our Bulgaria Business & Tax Knowledge Hub.
Disclaimer
This article is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute tax, legal, or accounting advice. Specific situations may require professional consultation.
Last reviewed and updated: February 2026 (euro adoption in force)