Coinify logo v3
Decimated logo
Occam logo
Binance
Lbank
Centaurify
Multiversx
Binance
Coinify logo v3
Decimated logo
Occam logo
Lbank
Centaurify
Multiversx
Binance
Occam logo
Centaurify
credit_info

500+

crypto licenses acquired

200+

companies registered

20+

client country locations
consultant_circle_img

With clients in 20+ countries, including Binance, growth-stage companies and innovative startups, we provide expert guidance on crypto licensing in Bulgaria and other key jurisdictions. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward compliance and growth!

Introduction

Bulgaria is emerging as a top destination for cryptocurrency businesses due to its favorable tax policies, strategic location in the EU, and minimal bureaucratic hurdles. With a 10% corporate tax rate, fast registration processes, and compliance with EU regulations, obtaining a crypto license in Bulgaria is an attractive option for startups and established businesses alike.

In this guide, we cover everything you need to know about obtaining a crypto license in Bulgaria, including its benefits, types of licenses, requirements, and taxation policies.

Benefits of Obtaining a Crypto License in Bulgaria

  • Low Corporate Tax Rate: Bulgaria offers a 10% corporate income tax, one of the lowest in Europe.
  • EU Compliance & Passporting: Once licensed, crypto businesses can operate across the EU without needing additional national licenses.
  • Fast Registration Process: Company incorporation takes a few days, and crypto authorization can be completed within a month.
  • No Physical Office Requirement: Crypto businesses do not need a physical presence in Bulgaria.
  • No Minimum Local Staffing: A foreign entity can apply without hiring local employees.
  • Remote Application: The entire licensing process can be done online, reducing operational costs.

Types of Crypto Licenses Available in Bulgaria

Bulgaria does not have a specific crypto exchange license, but it requires businesses involved in crypto-related activities to register under the Measures Against Money Laundering Act (MAMLA). The two main types of crypto registrations include:

  • Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) Registration: Covers crypto exchanges, brokers, and wallet providers.
  • Crypto Custodial Service Provider: Applies to businesses that store and manage private keys on behalf of customers.

These registrations allow companies to legally operate cryptocurrency exchanges, offer crypto-to-fiat and crypto-to-crypto trading, and provide crypto custody services.

Requirements for a Crypto License in Bulgaria

To register as a crypto service provider in Bulgaria, applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Company Registration: The business must be incorporated in Bulgaria with a registered corporate address.
  • AML/CFT Compliance: Internal procedures must comply with EU anti-money laundering (AML) and counter-terrorism financing (CFT) directives.
  • Know Your Customer (KYC) Procedures: Companies must implement KYC checks for customer identity verification.
  • Risk Assessment & Reporting: Must assess financial risks and report suspicious transactions to the Financial Intelligence Directorate.
  • Business Plan & Operational Model: A detailed business plan and description of crypto-related services must be submitted.
  • Application Fee: A state registration fee of approximately €25 is required.

Steps to Obtain a Crypto License in Bulgaria

steps_image_crypto

Essential Steps for Setting Up For Bulgarian crypto license

Talk with our founder Mardo Soo
steps_image_crypto

Essential Steps for Setting Up For Bulgarian crypto license

Talk with our founder Mardo Soo
Incorporate a Company in Bulgaria
  • Choose a legal structure (LLC, Joint Stock Company, etc.).
  • Open a corporate bank account.
  • Deposit the minimum share capital (as low as €1 for an LLC).
Develop AML/CFT Compliance Framework
  • Draft internal AML policies and appoint compliance officers.
  • Establish KYC verification protocols.
Register with the Bulgarian National Revenue Agency (NRA)
  • Submit an online application via the NRA portal.
  • Pay the applicable registration fee.
Approval & Licensing
  • The NRA reviews the application and issues the registration certificate within 30 days.
consultant_circle_img

Looking for a crypto license in Bulgaria? Our team offers a free consultation and quick responses to help you navigate options in Bulgaria and other jurisdictions. Contact us today to start your journey!

Taxation for Crypto Companies

Bulgaria offers one of the most crypto-friendly taxation regimes in the EU:

  • Corporate Income Tax: 10% flat rate.
  • Personal Income Tax on Crypto Gains: 10%.
  • Value-Added Tax (VAT): Crypto transactions are generally exempt.
  • Withholding Tax: 5% on dividends.

Activities like crypto mining, staking, and trading are subject to standard tax regulations, with income assessed based on total capital gains.

Regulatory Authorities and Compliance for Crypto Businesses

The main regulatory bodies overseeing crypto-related activities in Bulgaria include:

National Revenue Agency (NRA)

  • Responsible for crypto business registration and AML supervision.

Financial Intelligence Directorate (FID)

  • Monitors compliance with anti-money laundering regulations.

Bulgarian National Bank (BNB)

  • Regulates financial institutions but does not oversee crypto licenses directly.

European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA)

  • Governs EU-wide crypto regulations under MiCA.

With the introduction of the Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA), crypto service providers in Bulgaria must align their compliance frameworks with evolving EU regulations by 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Bulgaria offers low corporate taxes, minimal bureaucratic obstacles, and EU-wide operational freedom for crypto businesses.

No, foreign individuals and companies can register and operate a crypto business in Bulgaria.

It typically takes up to one month from submission to approval.

Yes, but advertisements must comply with consumer protection laws and must not be misleading.

No special license is required for mining, and profits are taxed as business income.

Yes, Bulgaria allows for remote company registration and licensing, making it an ideal choice for international crypto entrepreneurs.

Failure to comply can result in fines, revocation of registration, and potential legal action from regulatory bodies.

Non-compliance with tax laws can lead to penalties, including financial fines, audits, and business suspension.

Yes, under the EU MiCA framework, stablecoin issuers must maintain a 1:1 liquid reserve and comply with financial stability regulations.

The main costs include company incorporation fees, application fees, legal and compliance costs, and potential consultation fees.

Yes, once registered in Bulgaria, companies can use the EU passporting mechanism to offer services in other EU member states.

Exchanges, custodial wallets, brokers, and any business providing virtual asset services require a crypto license in Bulgaria.

Documents include company incorporation details, proof of compliance with AML regulations, business plans, and information on shareholders and directors.

Conclusion

Bulgaria presents a cost-effective and strategically advantageous destination for cryptocurrency businesses seeking an EU-compliant licensing framework. With a low tax regime, fast registration process, and regulatory clarity, Bulgaria is one of the most attractive countries for launching a crypto exchange, brokerage, or custodial wallet service.

If you’re looking to obtain a crypto license in Bulgaria, our expert consultants can guide you through the process and ensure compliance with the latest regulatory standards. Contact us today to start your crypto business in Bulgaria!