Bulgarian Ready-Made Companies: Complete 2025 Buyer’s Guide

Last Updated: 8th of January 2026

A Bulgarian ready-made company (also called a shelf company or aged company) is a pre-registered limited liability company that has already completed incorporation, VAT registration, bank account opened, and kind of licenses may be included. These companies are legally formed, have never traded, and can be purchased and transferred to new owners within 5-7 business days.

What Is a Ready-Made Company in Bulgaria?

Ready-made companies in Bulgaria are pre-incorporated legal entities that were formed but never activated for business operations. They exist “on the shelf” waiting for purchase, allowing entrepreneurs to bypass the standard 3-4 week company formation, hardship with foundation bank account, business bank account and VAT registration process.

Key Characteristics:

• Pre-registered with Bulgarian Commercial Register
• Clean history with zero transactions
• Corporate bank account
• Revolut Business, Wise, Paysera, iCard may be included depending on package
• VAT registration already completed
• Registered office address included
• Available for immediate transfer
• A nominee service may be included depending on package
• A licenses for specific activity may be included depending on package
• A year of accounting services may be included depending on package
• A year of ongoing legal assistance may be included depending on package

Ready-Made (Shelf) Company vs. New Company Formation: Which Should You Choose?

When You SHOULD Buy a Ready-Made Bulgarian Company

Ready-made companies make strategic sense in these situations:

1. Time-Sensitive Business Opportunities

If you need to sign contracts, submit tenders, or start invoicing within 1-2 weeks, a ready-made company is your only viable option. New formations require 3-4 weeks minimum.

2. Avoiding New Banking Restrictions

Companies incorporated before August 2019 may have different banking compliance requirements. Some ready-made companies can open accounts with certain banks without the director holding Bulgarian residency.

3. Immediate VAT Invoicing Requirements

EU clients requiring VAT-registered suppliers for cross-border services can be served immediately with a ready-made company. New companies face a 2-3 week VAT registration waiting period after incorporation.

4. Building Credit History Faster

Older company registration dates (even with zero trading history) can improve perceived stability when applying for credit, insurance, or merchant accounts.

5. International Tender Participation

Many public procurement processes require companies to be operational for 6-12 months. A shelf company with an older registration date may qualify immediately.

When You Should NOT Buy a Ready-Made Company

Avoid if:

• Your primary concern is cost minimization (new formation is cheaper, but slower)
• You want complete control over the company name from inception
• You’re establishing a long-term brand identity where formation date matters
• You have at least 4+ weeks before you need to operate

Not sure whether you should use New Company or Ready Made Company – Consult with B&K Law Firm – we are making business decisions made easy. We can support you both!

Free Consultation: +359 88 897 3040

Email: office@bglegalfirm.com

Website: www.bglegalfirm.bg

Complete Purchase Process: 7 Steps to Ownership

Step 1: Company Selection (Day 0)

Review available ready-made companies with details including:

• Current company name (changeable)
• Registration number and date
• Registered capital amount (typically 2 BGN / €1)
• Current business activity
• Registered address location
• VAT registration number
• Business bank account
• Nominee service

Timeline: 1 day

Step 2: Purchase Agreement & Payment (Days 0-1)

Sign purchase agreement specifying:

• Purchase price
• Included services (shares transaction, name change, address change, activity updates)
• Transfer timeline
• Post-sale support period

Payment methods: Bank transfer, Wise, credit card Timeline: 1 day

Step 3: Power of Attorney Preparation (Days 1-2)

In the events when you don’t plan to travel to Bulgaria – You’ll receive a Power of Attorney document that must be certified. This grants the service provider authority to transfer company ownership on your behalf.

Certification Options:

• Option A: Bulgarian embassy/consulate in your country (free-€50)
• Option B: Local notary + apostille (€30-150 depending on country)
• Option C: Local notary + consulate legalization (€50-200)

Timeline: 1-5 days (depending on your location and chosen method)

Step 4: Document Submission (Day 6-7)

Service provider submits to Bulgarian Commercial Register:

• Certified Power of Attorney (Attorneys at Law act based on sample written POA)
• Share transfer agreement
• New director appointment (if applicable)
• Updated Articles of Association
• Name/address/activity change applications (if requested)

Timeline: 1 day for submission

Step 5: Commercial Register Processing (Days 8-12)

The Bulgarian Commercial Register reviews and approves changes. You can track status online using the company registration number at Commercial Register Portal.

Timeline: 3-5 business days

Step 6: Updated Documentation Delivery (Day 13)

You receive:

• Updated company certificate
• Current extract from Commercial Register
• VAT registration certificate
• New Articles of Association
• Share ownership certificates
• Corporate seal (if requested)
• Access to registered office
• Access to corporate online banking (depending on package ordered)
• Nominee agreement (depending on package ordered)

Timeline: 1 day

Step 7: Bank Account Opening (Days 14-30)

Open corporate bank account with:

• Traditional Bulgarian banks (requires Bulgarian residence card for director)
• Fintech solutions: Revolut Business, Wise Business, Paysera (no residency required)
• International banks with Bulgarian operations

Timeline: 1-14 days (depending on bank and residency status)

Pricing Breakdown: What’s Included

Standard Ready-Made Company Package: €1,400-€1,600

Included: ✓ Company with active VAT registration ✓ Clean history (zero transactions) ✓ Registered office address (1 year) ✓ Company name change (if desired) ✓ Business activity update ✓ Registered address change ✓ Share transfer documentation ✓ New company certificate ✓ Commercial Register fees ✓ Corporate seal

Optional Add-Ons:

• Bulgarian residence certificate assistance: +€800-€1,200
• First-year accounting package: +€600-€1,200
• Bank account opening support: +€300-€500
• Additional director appointment: +€200
• Apostille services for foreign documents: +€50-€150

Hidden Costs to Consider

• Apostille/legalization of your Power of Attorney: €30-€200
• Courier fees for original documents: €50-€100
• Translation services if documents aren’t in Bulgarian: €30-€80 per page
• Annual registered office renewal: €200-€500/year
• Minimum accounting fees: €80-€120/month

Banking Solutions for Ready-made Companies in 2025

Challenge: The August 2019 Banking Rule Change

Bulgarian banks implemented stricter requirements in 2019, requiring company directors to hold Bulgarian residence certificates before opening accounts. This affects both new and purchased companies. In addition read out post on How to navigate business bank account in Bulgaria

Solution 1: Bulgarian Residence Certificate (Recommended for Traditional Banking)

Timeline: 1-14 days Cost: €800-€1,500 (including legal fees)

Requirements for EU citizens:

• Valid passport
• Proof of health insurance
• Rental agreement or property ownership in Bulgaria
• Proof of sufficient financial means

Benefits:

• Access to all Bulgarian banks
• Qualifies for Bulgarian tax residency
• Required for long-term business operations

Solution 2: Fintech Banking (Fastest Option)

Timeline: 2-7 days Cost: €0-€200 setup fees

Recommended Providers:

Revolut Business

• IBAN: Lithuanian
• Multi-currency accounts (30+ currencies)
• Integration: Xero, QuickBooks
• Monthly fees: €0-€90
• Best for: E-commerce, international transactions

Wise Business

• IBANs: EUR, GBP, USD available
• Lowest FX fees (0.35-1%)
• Multi-user access
• Best for: International contractors, B2B services

Paysera Business

• IBAN: Lithuanian
• Crypto-friendly
• Low monthly fees (€5-€20)
• Best for: Startups, digital services

iCard Business (Bulgarian provider)

• IBAN: Bulgarian
• Physical cards available
• Local support in Bulgaria
• Best for: Bulgaria-focused operations

Solution 3: International Bank with Bulgarian Operations

Banks like UniCredit Bulbank or DSK Bank may work with established businesses that have EU parent companies or significant capital. Requirements vary by case.

Legal Compliance Checklist After Purchase

Immediate Actions (Week 1)

• File beneficial ownership register (if applicable for your structure)
• Verify VAT registration is active on Bulgarian NRA website
• Update company specimen signatures at bank
• Register for online access to National Revenue Agency portal
• Set up registered office mail forwarding
• Establish accounting system or engage accountant if not purchized with package

First Month Actions

• Register for social security if hiring employees
• Obtain any industry-specific licenses or permits
• Set up invoice numbering system
• Create initial minute book entry documenting ownership transfer

Ongoing Compliance

• Monthly VAT returns (even if zero-rated when VAT registered)
• Quarterly advance corporate tax payments
• Annual financial statements filing (by September 30)
• Annual tax return filing (by June 30)
• Maintenance of minute books and statutory records

Shelf Company Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does it take to buy a Ready-Made Companies in Bulgaria?

The complete process takes 5-7 business days from payment to receiving ownership documents. This includes submitting the certified Power of Attorney (1-2 days), Commercial Register processing (3-5 days), and document delivery (1 day). However, you must add time for getting your Power of Attorney certified at an embassy or notary, which can take 1-5 additional days depending on your location.

How much does a Bulgarian ready-made companies cost?

A ready-made Bulgarian company with VAT registration costs €2,200-€8,800 on average. This may include the company transfer, registered office for one year, VAT certificate, and basic name/address changes, bank account and online banking, annual accounting, ongoing legal assistance. Additional costs include Power of Attorney legalization (€30-€200), accounting services (€80-€100/month minimum), and optional Bulgarian residence assistance (€800-€1,200) if needed for banking.

Is buying a ready-made company legal in Bulgaria?

Yes, purchasing a shelf company is completely legal in Bulgaria and worldwide. The transfer follows standard Bulgarian commercial law procedures for share transfers under the Bulgarian Commerce Act. The process is officially registered with the Bulgarian Commercial Register and fully transparent to tax authorities.

Can I open a bank account with a ready-made Bulgarian company?

Yes, but with considerations. For traditional Bulgarian banks, the director typically needs a Bulgarian residence certificate due to rules implemented in August 2019. Alternatively, you can open accounts with fintech providers like Revolut Business, Wise Business, or Paysera without residency requirements. These accounts provide full IBAN functionality for EU and international transactions.

Will the company have any debts or hidden liabilities?

Reputable providers guarantee zero trading history and no liabilities. Before purchasing, request a current Commercial Register extract (dated within 7 days) and tax clearance certificate. These documents prove no outstanding obligations. The company should show zero revenue, zero expenses, and no VAT transactions since incorporation.

Can I change the company name after buying it?

Yes, you can change the company name during the ownership transfer process at no additional charge with most providers. The new name must be checked for availability with the Bulgarian Commercial Register and approved, which takes 3-5 business days. You can also change the registered address and business activities simultaneously.

Do I need to visit Bulgaria to buy a ready-made company?

No, you don’t need to visit Bulgaria. The entire process can be completed remotely using a certified Power of Attorney. You certify the POA at your nearest Bulgarian embassy, consulate, or local notary (with apostille), then courier it to your service provider in Bulgaria. They handle all Commercial Register filings on your behalf.

What’s the difference between EOOD and OOD shelf companies?

EOOD (equivalent to LLC) has a single owner and is the most common shelf company type. OOD requires at least two shareholders and is less common in ready-made inventory. Most shelf companies are EOOD structure because they’re simpler to transfer. You can convert an EOOD to OOD later by adding shareholders if needed.

Can I use a ready-made company for e-commerce and dropshipping?

Yes, Bulgarian shelf companies are commonly used for e-commerce, dropshipping, Amazon FBA, and digital services. The VAT registration allows you to charge VAT to EU customers immediately. Bulgaria’s 10% corporate tax rate makes it attractive for online businesses. Ensure your business activities include “online retail” or relevant codes during the transfer.

How do I verify the company is legitimate before buying?

Check these official Bulgarian sources: (1) Bulgarian Commercial Register at registryagency.bg – enter the company registration number to verify it exists and review filing history, (2) National Revenue Agency website – verify VAT registration status is active, (3) Request the current company extract showing zero share capital transactions, (4) Ask for statutory accounts proving no trading activity.

What happens to the previous owner after I buy the company?

The previous owner (typically the formation agent or nominee) completely exits the company. They resign as director and transfer 100% of shares to you through an official share transfer agreement registered with the Commercial Register. Once the transfer is complete, they have no legal connection to the company. You become the sole owner and beneficial owner on record.

Can foreign non-EU citizens buy Bulgarian ready-made companies?

Yes, Bulgarian law allows foreign nationals from any country to own Bulgarian companies. There are no citizenship or residency requirements for company ownership. However, non-EU citizens may face additional banking challenges and cannot easily obtain Bulgarian residence permits through company ownership alone (unlike EU citizens).

Is VAT registration included with ready-made companies?

Yes, all ready-made companies from reputable providers include active VAT registration. The VAT number is already issued and can be used immediately upon ownership transfer. This saves 14-21 days compared to registering a new company for VAT. Verify the VAT number is active on the National Revenue Agency website before purchasing.

Can I get a refund if the company transfer fails?

Reputable providers offer refund policies if they cannot complete the transfer due to issues on their end (like incorrect documentation or Commercial Register rejection). However, if the transfer fails due to your incorrect Power of Attorney or missing documents, refunds are typically not provided. Always clarify the refund policy in writing before payment.

What business activities can I conduct with a shelf company?

Ready-made companies usually include general business activity codes like “management consulting,” “trading,” “services,” and “online commerce.” You can add or modify activity codes during the ownership transfer for no extra charge. Some regulated activities (financial services, healthcare, gambling) require additional licenses regardless of when the company was formed.

Do ready-made companies qualify for Bulgarian tax residency?

Yes, if you meet the requirements. The company must have its place of effective management in Bulgaria, meaning real business operations, a Bulgarian office, and regular presence. Simply buying a shelf company doesn’t automatically grant tax residency. You’ll need substance (office, employees or director presence, business activities conducted from Bulgaria) and should file for tax residency certification.

How old are typical shelf companies available for purchase?

Most shelf companies are 6-24 months old. Providers form them in batches and hold them until sold. Companies older than 2 years are less common. The age can benefit certain tender requirements or credit applications that require minimum operational history, though remember these companies have zero trading history regardless of registration date.

Can I add a second director or shareholder after buying?

Yes, you can appoint additional directors or add shareholders after the purchase. Adding a director requires a General Meeting Resolution and Commercial Register filing (3-5 days, €250-€350 as a minimum). Adding shareholders involves a share transfer or capital increase process. These changes can also be done simultaneously with the ownership transfer to save time.

What documents will I receive after purchasing?

You’ll receive: (1) Updated company certificate from Commercial Register, (2) Current company extract showing you as owner, (3) VAT registration certificate, (4) New Articles of Association, (5) Share ownership certificates, (6) Corporate seal (optional), (7) Specimen signature cards, (8) Access credentials for registered office, (9) Complete company formation file with historical documents, (10) Bank account & online banking access.

Are there ongoing costs after buying a shelf company?

Yes, expect these annual costs: (1) Registered office address renewal: €200-€400/year, (2) Accounting services: €600-€1,200/year minimum for zero-activity, €1,200-€4,200/year for active trading, (3) Annual Commercial Register fees: €50-€100, (4) Corporate tax filing even if zero profits: included in accounting, (5) Legal assistance €75-250 / per hour, (6) Optional: Virtual office upgrades, mail forwarding, phone answering services.

Bulgarian Corporate Tax & Accounting Requirements

Corporate Tax Rate: 10%

Bulgaria has the EU’s lowest corporate income tax at 10% flat rate on profits. Dividend distribution to individuals is taxed at an additional 5%.

Effective tax planning structure:

• Company profit: €100,000
• Corporate tax (10%): -€10,000
• Net profit available: €90,000
• Dividend distribution: €90,000
• Dividend tax (5%): -€4,500
• Total received: €85,500
• Effective tax rate: 14.5%

VAT Registration & Returns

• Standard VAT rate: 20%
• Reduced rates: 9% (hospitality, tourism)
• Filing frequency: Monthly
• Payment deadline: 14th of following month
• Intra-EU supplies: Reported via VIES system

Mandatory Accounting Requirements

All Bulgarian companies must:

• Maintain accounting records following Bulgarian Accounting Standards
• File annual financial statements by September 30
• Appoint a registered accountant (external or internal)
• Keep records for 5 years minimum
• Use double-entry bookkeeping

Typical monthly accounting costs:

• Zero-activity company: €80-€100/month
• Low-volume trading (<50 transactions): €100-€150/month
• Medium-volume (50-200 transactions): €200-€350/month
• High-volume or VAT complexity: €400+/month

Red Flags: How to Avoid Shelf Company Scams

Warning Signs of Unreliable Providers

Immediate red flags:

• Prices significantly below market (€2200 or less for VAT-registered company)
• No verifiable business address in Bulgaria
• Cannot provide real-time Commercial Register verification
• Vague about company selection process
• No written guarantee of zero liabilities
• Requests payment to personal accounts (not company accounts)
• Cannot produce Bar Association, Chamber of Commerce, or similar credentials

Due Diligence Steps

Before purchasing:

1. Verify provider credentials
   • Check their listings
   • Verify Bulgarian Bar Association membership (for law firms)
   • Read reviews on Google, Trustpilot, international business forums
2. Request specific company details before payment
   • Exact company registration number
   • Current Commercial Register extract (dated within 7 days)
   • VAT certificate showing active registration
   • Confirmation of zero trading activity
3. Get everything in writing
   • Purchase agreement with specific deliverables
   • Timeline commitments
   • Refund policy if transfer fails
   • Post-purchase support terms
4. Verify the company independently
   • Look up registration number at registryagency.bg
   • Cross-check VAT number at Bulgarian NRA website
   • Confirm registered address exists

Alternative: When New Company Formation Makes More Sense

Choose New Formation If:

Brand Identity Matters If your company name is your brand (e.g., “SmithTech Solutions EOOD”), starting fresh ensures no history and perfect naming from day one.

No Time Pressure If you have 4+ weeks before operations begin, new formation saves €400-€600 and gives you complete customization.

Long-Term EU Business For businesses planning decades of operation, starting with your chosen name and structure provides cleaner corporate history.

Multiple Shareholder Structure New formations allow you to establish complex shareholder arrangements (OOD with multiple partners) from inception.

Specific Activity Codes Required If you need unusual or highly regulated business activity (EMI, MiCA, CASP, Cryptocurency), starting fresh ensures correct registration from the beginning.

New Formation Process Timeline

• Days 1-3: Name reservation and document preparation
• Days 4-7: Notarization and Commercial Register submission
• Days 8-10: Commercial Register processing
• Days 11-12: Company certificate issuance
• Days 13-28: VAT registration processing
• Days 29-35: Bank account opening
• Total: 4-5 weeks

Cost range: €800-€1,200 (all-inclusive with standard share capital)

Conclusion: Is a Bulgarian Ready-Made Company Right for You?

A Bulgarian ready-made company delivers value when speed is essential and the €800-€5000 premium over new formation is justified by:

• Time-sensitive contracts or tenders requiring immediate execution
• Need for VAT-registered invoicing within days, not weeks
• Avoiding current banking restrictions for non-resident directors
• Perceived company age benefits for creditworthiness or procurement

However, if you have adequate time and strong brand considerations, new company formation provides better long-term value with complete customization and a cleaner starting point.

Recommended Decision Framework

Choose Ready-Made Company If:

• Need to operate within 7-10 days
• Contract or tender deadline within 2 weeks
• VAT invoicing required immediately
• Want to potentially bypass some banking residency requirements

Choose New Company Formation If:

• Have 4+ weeks before operation
• Budget is primary concern (save €800-€5000)
• Brand name is critical to business identity
• Want pristine corporate history from day one

Next Steps

1. Assess your timeline – when must you actually begin trading?
2. Calculate total costs – include POA legalization, accounting, banking setup
3. Verify provider credentials – check Listings, Bar Association membership
4. Request available company list – review actual options with registration numbers
5. Compare 3 quotes – pricing, timeline, included services, support level
6. Verify independently – check companies on Commercial Register before committing

Need help deciding? Consider consulting with a Bulgarian corporate lawyer to review your specific situation, especially if:

• Your business involves regulated activities (Tech, FinTech, Financial services, Healthcare, Education)
• You’re establishing a subsidiary of a foreign parent company
• You plan to apply for Bulgarian tax residency
• Your business model requires specific licensing or permits

Resources:

• Bulgarian Commercial Register – Verify company status
• National Revenue Agency – Check VAT registration
• Investment Bulgaria – Official investment information
• Bulgarian Bar Association – Official Bar registers

This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice. Consult with qualified Bulgarian professionals like B & K Law Firm or other by your choice before making business decisions.