EORI Registration in Bulgaria 2026: What’s new?

EORI Registration in Bulgaria follwing adoption of Euro on 01.01.2026, what changes (if any)?

What is an EORI Number?

An EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification number) is a unique identification code required by the European Union for all businesses and individuals engaged in import and export activities. This system, mandatory since July 1, 2009, enables customs authorities throughout the EU to track and monitor cross-border trade efficiently.

The EORI registration in Bulgaria is managed by the National Customs Agency and serves as your business’s passport for international trade within and outside the European Union.

Why is EORI Registration in Bulgaria Important?

• Mandatory for customs clearance: Without an EORI number, customs authorities will refuse entry or exit of goods
• Streamlines international trade: Enables faster processing of customs declarations
• EU-wide recognition: One EORI number is valid across all 27 EU member states
• Legal requirement: Compliance with EU Regulation 952/2013 (Union Customs Code)
• Security measure: Helps combat illegal trade and enhance supply chain security

Who Needs EORI Registration in Bulgaria?

Mandatory Registration Required For:

Bulgarian Companies:

• Any company registered in Bulgaria importing or exporting goods outside the EU
• Businesses trading with non-EU countries (UK, USA, China, Turkey, etc.)
• Companies receiving goods from abroad or sending goods internationally
• E-commerce businesses shipping products across EU borders

Individual Entrepreneurs:

• Self-employed individuals engaged in international trade
• Online sellers (eBay, Amazon, Etsy) shipping outside Bulgaria
• Freelancers importing business equipment from non-EU countries

Foreign Companies Operating in Bulgaria:

• Non-EU businesses conducting customs operations in Bulgaria
• International companies with branches or permanent establishments in Bulgaria
• Foreign entities acting as importers under DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) terms

Private Individuals in Bulgaria:

Bulgaria is among five EU countries (along with Czech Republic, Greece, Lithuania, and Romania) that may require private individuals to obtain EORI numbers for certain customs clearance situations, particularly for personal imports requiring formal customs declarations. However, this requirement applies on a case-by-case basis depending on the nature of the shipment and customs requirements, rather than universally for all private consumers.

Key Changes for 2026

1. Bulgaria’s Euro Adoption (Effective January 1, 2026)

Bulgaria officially joins the Eurozone on January 1, 2026, becoming the 21st member of the euro area. While this doesn’t change the EORI registration in Bulgaria process itself, it impacts:

Currency Reporting:

• All customs declarations must be completed in EUR instead of BGN
• Invoice values reported in euros
• Duties and taxes calculated in euros
• Financial documentation supporting EORI applications should reflect euro transition

Business Implications:

• Update accounting systems to handle EUR transactions
• Review pricing strategies for import/export activities
• Ensure invoicing software supports euro currency
• Coordinate with banks for currency conversion arrangements

2. ICS2 (Import Control System 2) Full Implementation (September 1, 2025)

ICS2 Release 3 became fully mandatory on September 1, 2025, for all road and rail transport into the EU. This enhanced security system requires:

• Complete Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) data for all goods entering the EU
• More detailed product information submitted in advance
• Valid EU EORI numbers for all economic operators, including GB hauliers
• Enhanced screening of goods before arrival at EU borders

Important Note: While some EU Member States received temporary derogations allowing continued use of NCTS P5 for the transitional period, full ICS2 compliance became mandatory by the end of 2025 across all member states.

Impact on Bulgarian Businesses: Importers must provide comprehensive shipment data earlier in the supply chain, making accurate EORI registration in Bulgaria critical for compliance with these already-implemented requirements.

3. EU €150 Customs Duty Exemption Changes

The EU agreed in November 2025 to eliminate the €150 threshold for customs duty exemptions, with implementation planned for 2026:

Confirmed Implementation:

• July 1, 2026: Interim fixed €3 customs duty per item for goods under €150 (confirmed by EU Council in December 2025)
• 2028: Full removal of the exemption threshold through the EU Customs Data Hub

What This Means:

• From July 1, 2026, a fixed €3 duty applies per item (not per parcel) for goods valued under €150
• This applies primarily to goods sold by non-EU sellers registered in IOSS (approximately 93% of e-commerce flows)
• All imports will require full customs processing and accurate EORI information
• E-commerce businesses face significant new compliance obligations
• The permanent solution eliminating the threshold entirely comes into effect in 2028

Current Status: The July 1, 2026 date is officially confirmed. However, businesses should monitor for any implementation updates or adjustments.

4. France-Specific EORI-SIREN Change (Not Applicable to Bulgaria)

France implemented mandatory EORI-SIREN integration from January 1, 2026. This change does NOT affect Bulgaria, which continues using its BG+X+Trade Register number format. Bulgarian businesses trading with France should be aware their French partners may have new EORI number formats.

5. NCTS Phase 6 Implementation

Bulgaria has adopted the OPT-IN approach for NCTS (New Computerized Transit System) Phase 6, allowing businesses to submit combined transit declarations containing both safety and security data through the Customs Transit Information System.

EORI Number Structure in Bulgaria

Bulgarian EORI numbers follow a standardized format:

For Legal Entities (Companies):

Example: BG123456789012

Format: BG + X + Trade Register Number + Control Digit

• BG = Bulgaria country code
• X = Additional identifier
• Trade Register Number = Your company’s unique registration number from the Bulgarian Trade Register
• Control Digit = Automatically generated validation number

For Individuals:

Format: BG + X + Personal ID Number + Control Digit

For Foreign Companies:

Non-EU companies assigned an EORI number in Bulgaria receive a Bulgaria-specific code following the same structure, with their foreign registration details recorded in the EORI database.

Required Documents for EORI Registration in Bulgaria

For Bulgarian Companies (EU Entities):

1. Completed EORI Registration Form
   • Available on the Bulgarian Customs Agency website
   • Must be filled in Bulgarian language
   • All fields completed accurately
2. Company Registration Certificate
   • Current certificate from the Bulgarian Trade Register
   • Issued within the last 6 months
   • Original or certified copy
3. Legal Representative’s Identification
   • Valid Bulgarian ID card or passport
   • Copy of identification document
4. Power of Attorney (if applicable)
   • Notarized document if application submitted by representative
   • Must explicitly authorize EORI registration
   • Accompanied by certified Bulgarian translation if original in foreign language

For Non-EU Companies/Individuals:

1. Completed EORI Registration Form in Bulgarian
   • Professional translation required if applicant doesn’t speak Bulgarian
2. Foreign Company Registration Documents
   • Certificate from the trade register in country of origin
   • Certificate of good standing dated within 6 months before application
   • All documents with certified Bulgarian translation
3. Valid Passport
   • For individual applicants
   • Copy of main identification pages
4. Proof of Accommodation (for individuals)
   • Bulgarian residency card, or
   • Rental agreement, or
   • Property title deed
5. Notarized Power of Attorney (if using representative)
   • With certified Bulgarian translation
   • Explicitly authorizing EORI registration

Step-by-Step Eori Registration in Bulgaria Process

Method 1: Online Registration (Recommended for EU Entities)

Prerequisites:

• Qualified electronic signature compliant with EU Regulation 910/2014 (eIDAS)
• Smart card reader connected to your computer

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Register on the Bulgarian Customs Agency E-Portal
   • Visit: https://ep.customs.bg/eportal/
   • Click “Register” in the upper right corner
   • Insert your smart card with electronic signature
   • Enter your PIN code
   • Complete the three-step registration process
2. Request EORI2 Service Access
   • Log into the e-Portal with your electronic signature
   • Navigate to “User and Access Management”
   • Select “Requesting access to the systems (national and EC’s central)”
   • Submit EORI2 service account request
3. Complete EORI Registration Form
   • Access the EORI registration workspace
   • Fill in all required information in Bulgarian
   • Upload supporting documents
   • Review all data carefully before submission
4. Submit Application
   • Digitally sign your application
   • Submit through the e-Portal system
   • Receive electronic confirmation
5. Receive Your EORI Number
   • Processing time: 1-3 business days
   • EORI number sent electronically via email
   • Number immediately valid for customs operations

Method 2: Paper Application (Available for All Applicants)

1. Download Registration Form
   • Available from Bulgarian Customs Agency website
   • Print and complete in Bulgarian language
2. Gather Required Documents
   • Collect all supporting documentation
   • Ensure certified Bulgarian translations for foreign documents
   • Make certified copies where needed
3. Submit to Local Customs Office
   • Visit the customs office in your area of residence/registration
   • Submit completed form with all documents
   • Receive acknowledgment receipt
4. Processing
   • Standard processing time: 3-5 business days
   • May extend to 5-10 days if documents incomplete
   • Contact customs office if no response after 10 days
5. Receive EORI Number
   • Number sent by post or email
   • Certificate issued electronically

Important Contact Information:

• National Customs Agency E-Portal: https://ep.customs.bg/eportal/
• Main Website: https://customs.bg/wps/portal/agency-en/
• Technical Support: servicedesk@customs.bg
• Phone Support: Available through regional customs offices

Processing Time and Costs

Registration Fees:

Government Fees: FREE The National Customs Agency does not charge any fees for EORI registration. The registration itself is completely free of charge.

Additional Costs to Consider:

1. Certified Translations (for foreign documents):
   • Sworn translator fees: €15-30 per page
   • Notarization: €10-20 per document
   • Total translation costs: €50-150 depending on document volume
2. Electronic Signature (for online registration):
   • Qualified electronic signature: €50-100 one-time cost
   • Smart card reader: €20-40 one-time cost
   • Annual renewal (if applicable): €30-50
3. Professional Assistance (optional):
   • Customs broker services: €100-300
   • Legal consultation: €150-500
   • Full-service registration: €200-600

Processing Timeline:

Pro Tip: Apply at least 2-3 weeks before your first planned shipment to ensure your EORI number is active and avoid customs delays.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incomplete Documentation

Problem: Missing or outdated documents cause significant delays.

Solution:

• Create a checklist of all required documents
• Verify certificate issue dates (must be within 6 months)
• Double-check all document copies are clear and legible

2. Incorrect or Incomplete Form Completion

Problem: Errors in the registration form lead to rejection or delays.

Solution:

• Fill out all mandatory fields (marked in red online)
• Use correct legal company name exactly as registered
• Verify all addresses match official registration documents
• Double-check Trade Register numbers

3. Missing Certified Translations

Problem: Foreign documents without Bulgarian translations are rejected.

Solution:

• Use certified sworn translators only
• Obtain notarization for all translations
• Include both original and translated versions
• Budget for translation costs in advance

4. Applying Too Late

Problem: Last-minute applications cause shipment delays and potential customs penalties.

Solution:

• Apply minimum 2-3 weeks before first shipment
• Don’t wait for goods to arrive at customs
• Consider registration part of business setup, not afterthought

5. Incorrect Electronic Signature Setup

Problem: Technical issues with electronic signatures prevent online submission.

Solution:

• Test electronic signature before starting application
• Ensure smart card reader properly installed
• Update all drivers and software
• Have physical backup option ready (paper application)

6. Not Keeping EORI Information Updated

Problem: Outdated business information causes customs clearance issues.

Solution:

• Notify customs agency within 30 days of any changes
• Update address changes immediately
• Report legal structure modifications
• Maintain current contact information

7. Assuming EORI Number Has Expiration Date

Problem: Businesses think they need to renew annually.

Solution:

• EORI numbers do NOT expire
• Valid indefinitely unless business ceases operations
• Can be invalidated upon request
• Data retained for 10 years after invalidation

After Registration: Using Your EORI Number

Where to Use Your EORI Number:

1. All Customs Declarations
   • Import declarations (entry into EU)
   • Export declarations (exit from EU)
   • Transit documents (movement through EU)
   • Temporary storage declarations
2. Commercial Documentation
   • Commercial invoices for international shipments
   • Packing lists
   • Bills of lading/air waybills
   • Certificates of origin
3. Customs Simplifications
   • Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) applications
   • Simplified customs procedures
   • Customs warehousing authorizations
   • Inward processing authorizations
4. Carrier and Logistics Communication
   • Provide to shipping companies (DHL, FedEx, UPS, etc.)
   • Share with freight forwarders
   • Include in customs broker instructions
   • Add to supplier and customer records

Verifying EORI Numbers:

You can verify any EU EORI number through the European Commission’s public database:

EU EORI Validation Service:

• Website: https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/dds2/eos/eori_validation.jsp
• Check validity of partners’ EORI numbers
• Verify before completing transactions
• Confirm company details match expectations

EORI Data in the Central System:

The EORI database contains:

• Your assigned EORI number
• Complete business identification details
• Registered business address(es)
• Contact information (if you consent to publication)
• Customs authorization status

Data Privacy:

• You can choose whether to publish your data on public databases
• Basic identification always visible for customs purposes
• Detailed information published only with your consent
• Full compliance with GDPR regulations

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

General Questions

Q: Is EORI registration in Bulgaria really free?

A: Yes, the Bulgarian National Customs Agency does not charge any fees for EORI registration. However, you may incur costs for certified translations (€50-150), electronic signatures (€50-100), or optional professional services (€200-600).

Q: How long is my EORI number valid?

A: EORI numbers do not expire. Once issued, your EORI number remains valid indefinitely unless you request invalidation or your business permanently ceases operations. There is no renewal process or annual fees.

Q: Can I use my Bulgarian EORI number in other EU countries?

A: Yes. Your Bulgarian EORI number is valid for customs operations in all 27 EU member states. You only need one EORI number for the entire European Union, issued by the country where your business is established or where you first conduct customs operations.

Q: What if I already have an EORI number from another EU country?

A: If you’re already registered in another EU member state, you typically don’t need a second Bulgarian EORI number unless you establish a permanent business presence in Bulgaria. However, if you establish a branch or subsidiary in Bulgaria, you should register for a Bulgarian EORI number.

Eori Registration in Bulgaria the Process

Q: Can I register if I don’t speak Bulgarian?

A: Yes, but you’ll need assistance. The registration form must be completed in Bulgarian, so you’ll need either a professional translator, a Bulgarian-speaking representative, or professional services from a customs broker or legal firm.

Q: Do I need an EORI number before I incorporate my company?

A: No. You must first register your company with the Bulgarian Trade Register and receive your company registration number. Only then can you apply for an EORI number. The EORI registration requires your Trade Register certificate as supporting documentation.

Q: Can a customs broker register on my behalf?

A: Yes. A customs broker or authorized representative can submit your EORI application. However, you must provide them with a notarized power of attorney explicitly authorizing them to perform EORI registration on your behalf. Your company remains legally responsible for the accuracy of all information provided.

Q: What happens if my application is rejected?

A: If your application is rejected, the Bulgarian National Customs Agency will notify you of the specific reasons. Common rejection causes include incomplete documentation, missing translations, or incorrect information. You can correct the issues and resubmit your application without penalty.

Q: Can I expedite the registration process?

A: There is no official expedited service. However, online applications through the e-Portal are typically processed faster (1-3 days) than paper applications (3-5 days). Ensuring all documentation is complete and accurate provides the fastest processing time possible.

Documents and Requirements

Q: What is a “certificate of good standing” and where do I get it?

A: A certificate of good standing (also called a certificate of status or certificate of compliance) is an official document from your company’s registration jurisdiction confirming your business is legally registered, current with all filings, and authorized to operate. For Bulgarian companies, this is issued by the Trade Register. For foreign companies, obtain it from your home country’s business registry or chamber of commerce.

Q: Do I need VAT registration to get an EORI number?

A: No. EORI registration in Bulgaria is independent of VAT registration. You can obtain an EORI number even if your company is not VAT registered. However, many companies engaged in international trade will eventually need both registrations.

Q: How recent must my Trade Register certificate be?

A: For Bulgarian companies, there’s no strict expiration, but customs authorities typically prefer certificates issued within the last 6 months. For foreign companies, the certificate of good standing must be dated no more than 6 months before your EORI application submission.

Q: Can I use scanned copies of documents?

A: For online applications through the e-Portal, scanned copies are acceptable and required. For paper applications, you should submit certified copies of original documents. Regular photocopies may be rejected.

Technical and Operational Questions

Q: What electronic signature do I need for online registration?

A: You need a qualified electronic signature compliant with EU Regulation 910/2014 (eIDAS Regulation). In Bulgaria, authorized providers include Borica, InfoNotary, and Evrotrust. The signature must be on a physical smart card with a card reader.

Q: What if I don’t have an electronic signature?

A: You can still register using the paper application method. Submit your completed form and documents to any Bulgarian Customs office within your area of business registration. Paper applications take slightly longer (3-5 days vs. 1-3 days) but don’t require technical equipment.

Q: Can I update my EORI information after registration?

A: Yes. You must notify the Bulgarian National Customs Agency within 30 days of any changes to your business information (address, legal structure, ownership, contact details). Updates can be submitted through the e-Portal or at your local customs office.

Q: Do I need separate EORI numbers for import and export?

A: No. One EORI number covers all customs operations: imports, exports, transit, and temporary storage. You use the same EORI number for all types of customs declarations and procedures.

Special Situations

Q: I’m a private individual importing personal goods. Do I need an EORI?

A: In Bulgaria, private individuals may need an EORI number for certain customs clearance situations, particularly for personal imports requiring formal customs declarations. Bulgaria is among five EU countries where this requirement can apply on a case-by-case basis. The requirement depends on the nature and value of the shipment. Contact the Bulgarian Customs Agency or your courier service to confirm whether your specific import requires an EORI number.

Q: What about temporary or one-time imports?

A: Even for one-time imports, an EORI number may be required. However, in exceptional cases, the customs administration can assign an ad hoc number for a specific declaration. This is not the same as a registered EORI number and cannot be used repeatedly. For any regular or planned trade activity, you should obtain a proper EORI registration.

Q: I operate an e-commerce business on Amazon/eBay. Do I need EORI?

A: Yes, if you’re shipping products internationally (outside Bulgaria to non-EU countries, or from non-EU countries to Bulgaria). For shipments within the EU, you don’t need EORI, but you may need VAT registration depending on your sales volumes.

Q: What happens if I start trading without an EORI number?

A: Customs authorities will refuse to process your shipments without a valid EORI number. This results in:

• Shipments stuck at customs
• Storage fees accumulating daily
• Potential customs penalties
• Inability to complete import/export transactions
• Possible return or destruction of goods

Q: Can I get an EORI number as a foreign company without establishing a Bulgarian entity?

A: Yes. Non-EU companies can obtain a Bulgarian EORI number if they plan to conduct customs operations in Bulgaria without establishing a permanent entity. However, you’ll need additional documentation, including foreign registration certificates and certificates of good standing with certified Bulgarian translations.

2026 Specific Questions

Q: How does Bulgaria’s euro adoption affect my EORI registration in Bulgaria?

A: The euro adoption on January 1, 2026, does not change the EORI registration process or requirements. However, after January 1, 2026, you must:

• Report all customs declaration values in EUR instead of BGN
• Update your accounting and invoicing systems for euro transactions
• Use euros for all customs-related payments and calculations

Q: Do I need to update my EORI registration in Bulgaria following joining in the Eurozone?

A: No. Your existing EORI number remains valid. You don’t need to re-register or update your registration. Only the currency used in customs declarations changes from BGN to EUR.

Q: What is ICS2 and how does it affect my EORI requirements?

A: ICS2 (Import Control System 2) is an enhanced EU security system that became fully mandatory on September 1, 2025, for road and rail transport. It requires more detailed advance data about shipments entering the EU. While it doesn’t change EORI registration requirements, it makes having a valid, accurate EORI number even more critical, as all shipment data must be linked to verified EORI numbers earlier in the supply chain.

Q: How does the €150 duty exemption removal affect my business?

A: From July 1, 2026, a fixed €3 customs duty per item applies to goods valued under €150 imported from non-EU sellers (primarily through IOSS). This means:

• All imports require customs processing and EORI numbers, regardless of value
• E-commerce businesses face new compliance obligations
• Accurate EORI information becomes critical for every shipment
• The permanent removal of the threshold entirely comes in 2028

Q: Is the July 1, 2026 date for the €3 duty confirmed?

A: Yes. The EU Council officially confirmed on December 12, 2025, that the €3 fixed duty on items under €150 will take effect from July 1, 2026. However, businesses should continue monitoring for any implementation updates or adjustments as the date approaches.

Key Takeaways

Essential Points to Remember:

1. EORI registration in Bulgaria is mandatory for any business or individual engaged in import/export activities in Bulgaria
2. Registration is FREE through the Bulgarian Customs Agency – no government fees apply
3. Processing takes 1-3 business days for online applications, 3-5 days for paper applications
4. EORI numbers never expire – valid indefinitely unless business ceases operations
5. One EORI number works EU-wide – valid for customs operations in all 27 member states
6. Apply 2-3 weeks in advance of your first shipment to avoid delays
7. Bulgaria joins the Eurozone January 1, 2026 – use EUR in all customs declarations after this date
8. ICS2 became mandatory September 1, 2025 – comprehensive data requirements now in effect
9. €3 duty on items under €150 from July 1, 2026 – confirmed by EU Council December 2025
10. Keep information current – notify customs within 30 days of any business changes

Next Steps:

1. Gather all required documentation for your business type
2. Decide between online (faster) or paper (no technical requirements) application
3. Complete the EORI registration form in Bulgarian
4. Submit application to Bulgarian National Customs Agency
5. Receive your EORI number within 3-5 business days
6. Begin using your EORI number for all customs operations

Resources:

• Bulgarian Customs Agency: https://customs.bg/wps/portal/agency-en/
• E-Portal Registration: https://ep.customs.bg/eportal/
• Technical Support: servicedesk@customs.bg
• EU EORI Validation: https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/dds2/eos/eori_validation.jsp

If you still need additional information or assistance please consult with B&K Law Firm.

This guide is updated for 2026 requirements. For specific questions about your situation, contact the Bulgarian Customs Agency directly or consult with legal advisor.