EOOD with a foreign owner — what you need to know
Bulgaria remains an attractive destination for starting a business thanks to the low corporate tax, access to the European Union market and the possibility of online registration in the Commercial Register. One of the most common questions is: can a foreigner own an EOOD? The answer is yes — there is no general prohibition for citizens of the EU, EEA or third countries to be sole owners of a Bulgarian sole-owner limited liability company, as long as the requirements for documents, identification and registered address are met.
For an overview of the steps see How to Start a Company in Bulgaria — Complete Guide and begin filing at company registration with Firmify.
Can a Foreigner Own a Company in Bulgaria?
Yes. For EU citizens and third-country nationals there is no separate "prohibition" on owning an EOOD by virtue of citizenship alone. The difference lies in the identification documents, the legalisation of foreign documents and the practical requirements of banks and electronic signature providers.
Required Documents: What to Prepare
EU and EEA Citizens
The procedure is relatively straightforward: typically a valid passport or ID card suffices according to the requirements of the Commercial Register and intermediaries. Additional documents are required in specific cases — verify at the date of filing.
Third-Country Nationals
Typically required:
- Passport — valid, with clearly legible data.
- Where needed: an apostille or legalisation of foreign official documents depending on the country of issuance.
- Criminal record certificate (or equivalent document) — often with an apostille and sworn translation into Bulgarian.
- Where a representative signs: a notarially certified power of attorney with a translation where the register requires it.
The exact package depends on the specific case — always confirm the list with the Registry Agency or a legal adviser.
Registered Address in Bulgaria
An EOOD must have a valid registered address in the Republic of Bulgaria. In practice many foreign owners use a virtual office agreement or business address, as long as the address meets the requirements for real and accessible contact with the company. The topic of address evidence is also related to post-registration changes — you can get guidance from the article on changing a company address.
QES and Evrotrust: Electronic Filing
For online filing with the Commercial Register a QES (Qualified Electronic Signature) is required. Services such as Evrotrust are compatible with the typical requirements for signing applications and documents. For foreigners the question of a Bulgarian personal number often arises — a PNF (Personal Number of a Foreigner) or PIN (Personal Identification Number) depending on the status — according to the rules of the QES provider and the institutions. It is advisable to check the identification requirements before purchasing a signature; additional context: What Is a QES and How to Get One?.
Tax Implications (Summary)
| Topic | Guideline |
|---|---|
| Corporate tax | Typically 10% on taxable profits for most commercial companies in Bulgaria. |
| Dividend tax | For individuals — rates and regimes according to the law in force at the time of distribution; for foreign recipients a withholding at source is often applied and the treaties determine the final effect. |
| Double taxation | Treaties between Bulgaria and the country of tax residence may reduce or redirect taxation — consultation with a tax specialist is essential. |
This is a summary, not individual tax advice. Combine it with an analysis of the owner's place of tax residence and any international reporting obligations (where applicable).
Bank Account for a Foreign Owner
Opening a company bank account sometimes requires in-person attendance at a branch for third-country nationals, depending on the bank's KYC policy and the origin of funds. Plan time for travel or for working with a bank that accepts remote procedures for your profile.
PNF — Why You May Need One
A Personal Number of a Foreigner (PNF) is often necessary for interaction with the NRA, banks and electronic systems. Do not confuse it with other registration numbers — follow the instructions of the respective institutions at the time of first registration.
Advantages of a Bulgarian EOOD for Foreigners
- Low corporate rate and a relatively predictable tax regime for small and medium businesses.
- Bulgaria's EU membership — access to the single market subject to compliance with regulations.
- Online registration with a prepared document package and a valid QES.
- Limited liability compared to many alternatives of self-employment.
For a comparison of legal forms and start-up decisions also see EOOD vs OOD — Which Legal Form to Choose?.
Useful Links and Next Step
A foreign owner can legally hold an EOOD in Bulgaria by preparing identification documents, where needed an apostille and sworn translation, securing a Bulgarian registered address, planning a QES (Qualified Electronic Signature) (including Evrotrust and the requirements for PNF/PIN), assessing taxes and treaties, and preparing for possible in-person attendance at a bank.
For a full overview: How to Start a Company in Bulgaria — Complete Guide. Ready to file the documents? Start at company registration and the detailed guide Registering an EOOD in Bulgaria.
With Firmify foreign owners step into a clear online process — structured steps, document generation and orientation toward electronic filing to the Commercial Register so you reduce the risk of rejection and save time from the very first registration.