You have an idea for a community service project, and you need to register NGO in Bulgaria (non-government organization). We can definitely help you out!

The Bulgarian law differentiates two types of NGOs – for private benefit and for public benefit. The NGO for public benefit is subject to more strict regulation. For example this NGO type has the obligation to submit every year a detailed report on its activities: what funds are received, by whom and for what. This report is submitted to the Ministry of Justice and is published publicly.

In the following lines, we explain the formation of NGO for private benefit that is the widespread NGO form in Bulgaria.

Who can create NGO in Bulgaria?

At least 3 persons (7 persons in case of NGO for public benefit) are required to establish the NGO. The founders of NGO can be Bulgarian and foreign legal entities and foreign natural persons.

What are the steps and documents for NGO formation and registration in Bulgaria?

1. One of the founders or one of our attorneys has to book the NGO name with the “Information Services” department at the District Court.
2. The statute is the key NGO document that determines its activities, funding, management etc.
3. The founder/s shall convene a constituent meeting at which they must adopt the above statute, determine the NGO’s activities and choose its manager.
4. The manager/s selected at the constituent meeting must provide a notarized sample of his/her signature/s.
5. The receipt for the paid state fee in the amount of BGN 50 (approx. EUR 26).
6. An official registration request on behalf of the founders to the District Court.
7. Power of attorney for one of our attorneys.

Consequently all of the above documents shall be filed with the court. Within 2 weeks, if all documents were properly executed, the court issues a resolution for the registration of non-government organization in Bulgaria.

After the court registration is complete, the NGO has an obligation to obtain a special number for accounting and taxation purposes. This number is called BULSTAT. To obtain the number, we have to file a request, enclosing a copy of the court resolution, with the Registry Agency at the Ministry of Justice. Once the BULSTAT number is issued, the NGO is ready to go.

In case of NGO for public benefit, the latter must be registered with with the Ministry of Justice as well.

Please, note that the NGO has a separate legal personality from the one of its founder. It must keep separate accounting books and prepare separate balance sheets from the ones of its founders. For more information on NGO registration and accounting you welcome to call us at any time!