Company Registration in Bulgaria
Quick answer
Company registration in Bulgaria typically takes around 3–4 weeks, including VAT registration where applicable.
The most common setup for foreign founders is a limited liability company (OOD or EOOD). Freelancer registration is possible in specific cases, but suitability should be assessed before proceeding.
Who this page is for
Company registration in Bulgaria is relatively straightforward on paper. In practice, however, the choice of structure, timing, and early compliance decisions matter more than many founders expect.
This page provides clear, practical guidance for foreign founders starting a business in Bulgaria — with transparent pricing and an advisory-first approach.
This page is intended for:
- foreign founders and entrepreneurs
- EU and non-EU nationals starting a Bulgarian business
- business owners comparing company vs freelancer
- founders who want clarity before committing to registration
Below, we explain:
- which business structures are commonly used
- how registration works in practice
- how we approach registration at Aidos
- what our fixed registration fees include
For detailed legal or tax explanations, we link to our dedicated guides.
Which business structure fits your situation?
Before registering, it is important to choose the right legal form. The most common options are outlined below.
Limited Liability Company (OOD / EOOD)
The standard choice for most foreign founders.
- separate legal entity
- limited liability
- suitable for trading, services, and online businesses
- widely accepted by banks, clients, and authorities
👉 Read more:
Freelancer / Self-employed
In some cases, freelancer registration can be appropriate, but this option is often misunderstood.
- simpler legal setup
- personal liability
- limitations for scaling, international clients, and certain activities
👉 Read more:
How company registration works in practice
Company registration in Bulgaria involves more than filing documents.
In practice, it combines pre-registration clarification with formal registration steps.
In practice, it includes:
- preparation of bilingual founding documents
- registration with the Bulgarian Commercial Register
- coordination with banks and AML procedures
- VAT registration (if required or requested)
Before any documents are filed, we focus on confirming that the chosen structure and setup make sense for your situation.
Pre-registration assessment
Each registration starts with a short discovery meeting.
The purpose is to:
- understand the planned activities and business model
- confirm whether a company, freelancer setup, or branch office is more appropriate
- identify early tax, VAT, or substance considerations
If company registration is the right option, we proceed with the formal setup.
Tax, accounting, and payroll alignment before registration
Before registration, we hold a practical alignment discussion covering:
- basic tax implications of the chosen structure
- VAT relevance and timing
- director remuneration and payroll considerations
- initial compliance expectations after registration
These topics are closely connected to how payroll, bookkeeping, and taxation work in practice in Bulgaria. Addressing them early helps avoid surprises after registration.
As part of this discussion, we also outline the AML, KYC, and UBO disclosure requirements that apply during company registration and bank onboarding in Bulgaria.
This step is intended to ensure the company is set up in a way that works in practice, not only on paper.
Pricing overview
Company registration (OOD / EOOD)
€1,950 per company (one-off)
Included in the fee:
- bilingual document preparation
- company registration with Bulgarian authorities
- assistance with opening bank account(s)
- VAT number application (if required)
Not included:
- ongoing accounting services
- payroll administration
- ongoing tax or legal advisory
For context on typical ongoing accounting costs in Bulgaria, see our overview of accountancy fees in Bulgaria.
Freelancer / self-employed registration
€950 (one-off)
Included in the fee:
- assessment of suitability for freelancer registration
- registration with the relevant authorities
- explanation of tax and social security obligations
Freelancer registration is suitable only in specific situations.
We confirm whether this option is appropriate before proceeding.
Typical timeline
While each case differs, company registration in Bulgaria typically takes around 3–4 weeks, including VAT registration where applicable.
The exact timing depends on the chosen structure, banking requirements, and overall complexity.
A typical process includes:
- Initial discussion and structure confirmation
- Preparation and signing of registration documents
- Registration with the Bulgarian Commercial Register
- Bank account opening and compliance procedures
- VAT registration (if applicable)
The legal registration itself is usually fast.
In practice, bank onboarding and compliance checks often determine the overall timeline.
Related topics you may need next
Depending on your situation, the following topics often become relevant shortly after registration:
- Residence permits in Bulgaria
- Tax residence in Bulgaria
- Online webshop registration
- VAT obligations and thresholds
- KYC in Bulgaria: What Companies Need to Know
These topics are addressed separately, step by step.
Next steps
If you are considering company registration — or want to confirm whether it is the right structure for your situation — the next step is a short conversation.
We will review your plans, clarify the available options, and confirm the practical steps before anything is filed.
Disclaimer
The information on this page is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, or accounting advice. Each situation is different, and professional advice should be obtained before taking action.
Last reviewed: February 2026
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