Crypto License in Bulgaria
Last Update: 18.03.2026
The Bulgarian crypto license enables fintech companies to integrate with the European crypto community, expand their digital presence, and earn the trust of a multi-million-strong European audience. The updated licensing rules, in line with MICA EC standards, give investors confidence that their rights are protected and that blockchain companies’ crypto activities in the region are transparent. Gofaizen & Sherle experts will assist in thoroughly assessing all regulatory risks and operational legitimacy, preparing a high-quality document package, and communicating effectively with government agencies.
The Cryptocurrency Markets Act (MICAL) of June 20, 2025, allowed authorities to act within the framework of a unified EU regulatory policy (MICA, DORA, TFR) regarding digital assets.
According to the provisions of this law, cryptocurrencies are not a means classified as a means of payment but rather as a digital representation of value. Regulatory functions are divided between:
- The Financial Supervision Commission (FSC) reviews and decides on the issuance of crypto licenses in Bulgaria, as well as supervises the activities of crypto operators, with the possibility of imposing sanctions on violators.
- The Central Bank (BNB) supervises issuers of EMTs (electronic money tokens), which must be authorized by the Payment Services and Systems Act.
Bulgaria is a rapidly developing market where 6.1% of the population already invests in virtual currencies, more than 36 BTC ATMs have been installed, and 30 crypto exchanges (Finance, Coinbase, Kraken) are available.
What Opportunities does getting a Crypto License in Bulgaria unlock for Companies?
Following the introduction of the pan-European MICA regulation for blockchain companies, legal and financial norms have been established in Bulgaria, and it has become possible to forecast business activities with an increase in user coverage.
For companies seeking to succeed in the innovative sector, a cryptocurrency license in Bulgaria opens up the following advantages:
- Harmonized legal environment. EU membership and compliance with all legislative requirements create a level playing field for all crypto companies and give investors confidence that their capital and rights are protected.
- A growing crypto ecosystem. The population actively uses digital assets, with forecasts predicting more than 800,000 users (12.3%) by 2026 and a market capitalization of $39.2 million.
- Competitive tax regime. Income tax for individuals is 10%, mining is treated as commercial activity (15% tax for sole proprietors), and corporate tax for legal entities is 10%, which are the most favorable rates in the EU.
- Increased user coverage. Blockchain companies only need to obtain a license in one EU country to operate legally in other jurisdictions, which creates a competitive environment for attracting the attention of more than 218 million users, with the prospect of growth to 268 million by 2026. According to statistics, one new BTC ATM is installed every day in Europe, and the average annual growth rate (CAGR) until 2030 is forecast at 11.2%.
Legal and Regulatory Criteria for Obtaining Crypto License in Bulgaria
Bulgaria’s crypto regulation requires compliance with a number of legal criteria established by the authorities to ensure the reliability and transparency of the digital environment, combat financial crime, and protect the market from fraud.
To conduct legal crypto activities in Bulgaria, companies must comply with the following legal requirements:
- Establishment of a corporate structure and registration with the NRA.
Only a legal entity (SRL/LLC) registered in the state register may apply for a crypto license. The main requirements for setting up a crypto business in Bulgaria include the initial capital contribution (by MICA), confirmation of a commercial address in the country (a virtual office is acceptable), and the manager and shareholder may be non-residents.
- Implementation of a reliable AML/KYC and risk management system.
Several EU Directives (5AMLD, 6AMLD), the MICA Regulation, and the Money Laundering Measures Act (MAMLA) (Art. 4) require compliance with strict standards for customer identification and verification, transaction monitoring, and reporting.The AML manager must have relevant experience and knowledge of legislation and be able to respond promptly to attempts at financial fraud and money laundering. Outsourcing of compliance responsibilities is permitted, provided that accountability remains with the licensee.
- Technical infrastructure and cybersecurity.
Some of the key crypto license requirements in Bulgaria include compliance with GDPR standards, the use of accepted encryption and data storage protocols (SSL/TLS, AES), regular testing for vulnerabilities, the use of multi-factor authentication (MFA) and data backup, staff training, and providing access for supervisory audits by the competent authority.
- Qualified management team.
The manager of a crypto company (who may be a non-resident) must have 3 to 5 years of experience in the financial sector (risk management, compliance), be familiar with local legislation and EU standards (AML/CFT, GDPR), confirm their business reputation (pass a fit & proper test), have no criminal record, and not be included in any sanctions lists.
Packages of services for obtaining crypto license in Bulgaria
- Full turnkey company formation·
- Registering company as VASP within the regulator
- Address of registration
- Individual AML/KYC Policy
- Assistance in Handling communication with the regulator
- Full set of corporate documents apostilled and translated into English language
- Assistance with opening of corporate account for crypto operating activity
- Search, Integration, direct employment agreement for Anti-Money Laundering Officer
- EU VAT / VIES Registration
- Personal tax and social security number obtainment
- Full turnkey company formation·
- Registering company as VASP within the regulator
- Address of registration
- Individual AML/KYC Policy
- Basic set of corporate documents
- Assistance in Handling communication with the regulator
- EU VAT / VIES Registration
- Personal tax and social security number obtainment
- Set of corporate document with translation
- Full turnkey company formation
- Registering company as VASP within the regulator
- Standard AML/KYC Policy
- EU VAT / VIES Registration
- Personal tax and social security number obtainment
- Set of corporate document with translation
Stages for Obtaining Crypto License in Bulgaria
An EU crypto license enables you to operate across the pan-European crypto space, allowing you to select the jurisdiction with the most favorable tax burden, optimal promising geolocation, and development prospects. The main steps a company must take to obtain a fintech license in Bulgaria:
Step 1: Register a legal entity.
The most common legal form is SRO/LLC. Since only one shareholder and manager are required, the minimum capital is BGN 2, and an official business address must be provided. Registration of a unique name and details takes place in the Register within 1-2 weeks.
Step 2: Application to the FSC.
When applying to the FSC, in addition to the basic corporate documents (memorandum, articles of association, business plan, identification data of managers and shareholders), the crypto company must provide AML/KYC policies, technical documentation, and information about the AML manager who will subsequently work with the Financial Intelligence Agency. The regulator has 30 days to accept the application and 2-4 weeks to review the quality of the submitted documents.
Step 3: Bank account.
Companies engaged in financial activities, working with tax authorities, and making payments must open an account in this jurisdiction. More than 20 banks are operating in Bulgaria, with Postbank and DSK Bank being the most friendly to digital assets. EDD is conducted for crypto companies, so the account opening period can take 2-4 weeks.
What documents are needed to obtain a Crypto License in Bulgaria?
According to the Bulgarian crypto legal framework, the package of documents must include:
- License application (official form).
- Corporate documents: Articles of Association, Certificate of Registration.
- Proof of business address, company website, and contact details.
- Proof of financial stability and availability of the required amount of capital (according to the selected class of crypto activity).
- Description of business activities for 3 years, indicating the main types of services, marketing plan, potential customer market, and business development strategy.
- AML/CFT procedures, personal data, and professional information about the AML manager.
- Dossier on the manager with passport details and, certificate of no criminal record.
- Description of technical infrastructure, including cybersecurity measures and agreements with IT providers.
- Information about beneficiaries.
- Bank account details (local bank).
Comparison of obtaining a crypto license in Bulgaria & Estonia
| Parameter | Bulgaria | Estonia |
|---|---|---|
| Regulator | FSC+BNB | FIU |
| License type | CASP | CASP |
| Minimum capital | MICA Regulations | MICA Regulations |
| State fee for registration | 5000-30 000 BGN ( €2500-15000) | €10 000 |
| Corporate income tax (CIT) | 10% | 0% (prior to profit distribution), 20-25% after |
| Dividend tax | 5% | 20% |
| Requirements for the office and manager | A virtual office is possible, and the manager may be a non-resident. | Physical office + resident manager |
Legislation in the field of Crypto Regulation
When registering a crypto company in Bulgaria, it is necessary to comply with all regulatory requirements and register with:
- The National Revenue Agency (NRA) keeps records of all taxpayers.
- The Financial Supervision Commission (FSC) – licensing and supervision of crypto providers.
- The National Bank (BNB) regulates EMT issuers.
Legislative framework for digital assets:
- The Crypto Asset Market Law (MICAL) was designed to bring local legislation into line with the MICA Regulation and introduce CASP.
- The Money Laundering Act (MAMLA)The was necessary to regulate AML/KYC procedures.
- The Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) outlines the key points for providers when working with customer data, storing it, and complying with the GDPR.
- The Payment Services and Systems Act (PSPSA) uses the BNB to supervise all payment service providers.
- Ministry of Finance Decision No. H-9 of 2020 details the registration procedure for crypto providers.
Bulgaria provides a clear legal framework and recognition of crypto licenses in the EU, but businesses must also comply with the Fifth Directive (EU) 2018/843 or 5AMLD, MICA Regulation, DORA, and TFR.
Taxation system
The main crypto tax laws in Bulgaria include the Tax Code, which states that:
- Corporate tax – 10%.
- Dividend tax – 5%.
- Mining -10%.
- VAT – 20% (storage, marketing, and consulting services – Value Added Tax Act).
- When hiring employees, social security contributions are 24.8% and health insurance contributions are 8%, in accordance with the Social Security Code.
The Accounting Act sets out the requirements for maintaining and submitting financial accounts, preparing balance sheets, and undergoing audits (mandatory when hiring more than 50 employees).
Conclution
A crypto license in Bulgaria is not only an official permit from regulators, but also an opportunity to scale up in the EU and take advantage of a loyal tax system with a stable legal framework. For investors, startups, and blockchain projects, this creates a predictable path for business, the opportunity to grow and attract new capital, and the prospect of introducing innovative products and using cutting-edge IT infrastructure.
FAQ about crypto license in Bulgaria
Does legal regulation apply to crypto activities in Bulgaria?
Yes, legal entities providing services (exchange, trading) or offering digital asset storage services must obtain a license from the FSC, register with the National Revenue Agency (NRA), and undergo all necessary audits and submit financial reports.
How long does the licensing process take?
The regulator (FSC) has 30 days to review the submitted documents and approximately two months to determine the quality of the application and make a decision. In general, it takes two to four months to obtain approval from the FSC.
What criteria must a company meet to obtain a license?
According to the MICA Regulation, the main requirement for working with cryptocurrencies is compliance with AML/KYC procedures, as well as providing complete information about owners and managers and confirming financial stability. In Bulgaria, it is permissible to use a virtual office (a commercial address is required) and hire a non-resident director.
What are the costs of obtaining a CASP in Bulgaria?
When applying to the FSC, you must pay BGN 5,000-30,000 (depending on the class of activity), confirm the availability of the required start-up capital (from €50,000), and company registration, notary, and legal services will also affect the total cost.
Can non-resident companies obtain a CASP in Bulgaria?
Only companies registered in Bulgaria are eligible to apply to the FSC. There are no restrictions on the residency of the owners and managers of legal entities.
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