Company Formation Bulgaria: Dtas

Bulgaria Introduction

There are several types of company appropriate for conducting business in Bulgaria. Regardless of the type of business, all details must be entered in the Commercial Register, which is maintained by the District Court of the area in which the business is to be located. The whole registration process should be completed within 30 days. Registration at the local tax office and the National Social Security Institute are mandatory. Once the company has been registered, the National Statistical Institute issues a BULSTAT number, but this must be requested and, again, is a mandatory legal requirement.

Bulgaria Private Limited Company (OOD)

A Private Limited Company has share capital and the liability of shareholders is limited to the amount of each individual’s shareholding. One or more individuals can form this type of company. The minimum start-up capital is BGN5,000, which must be divided into shares of BGN10 each. A minimum of 70% of share capital must be paid up on foundation of the company. Shareholders must meet at least annually and a Board of Directors must run the company.

The main requirements to set up a Private Limited Company are the availability of the Articles of Association, the appointment of a managing director, and confirmation of paid-up share capital.

Bulgaria Single Person Private Limited Company (EOOD)

This is a form of company that is owned by a single shareholder, who appoints a Board of Directors (or Managing Director) to run the business. The legal requirements for the foundation of a Single Person Private Limited Company are the same as for a Private Limited Liability Company. Proper accounts (balance sheet and financial statement) must be prepared annually.

Bulgaria Public Limited Liability Company (AD)

A Public Limited Liability Company has share capital and is owned by the shareholders. Liability of shareholders is limited to the value of the shareholding. Two or more people can found a Public Limited Liability Company. There is a requirement to have minimum capital of BGN50,000, or BGN100,000 if by public issue. A minimum of 25% of share capital must be paid up upon inception. As with other company forms, shareholders must meet at least annually and proper accounts and financial statements must be maintained.

Bulgaria Branches

Any legal entity registered in another country can register a Branch of the business in Bulgaria. This is provided that the necessary legal registration in the country of domicile has been properly completed. A Branch is not regarded as a legal entity, although it must maintain accounts.