Our available Crypto exchanges in Bulgaria
Bulgaria’s crypto licensing framework has transitioned to MiCA. The former national VASP registration — previously maintained under AML supervision as a domestic registry entry — has been replaced by a CASP (Crypto-Asset Service Provider) authorisation issued by the Financial Supervision Commission (FSC/KFN) under Bulgaria’s Crypto-Assets Markets Act (CAMA), which entered into force on 8 July 2025.
The MiCA transition timeline for Bulgaria: VASPs registered before 30 December 2024 that applied for CASP authorisation by 8 October 2025 may continue operating until 1 July 2026 or until the FSC issues a decision. After that date, only fully FSC-authorised CASPs may provide crypto-asset services in Bulgaria.
Bulgaria’s structural appeal is clear: 10% corporate income tax — the lowest in the EU — a transparent fee schedule under Ordinance No. 76, and full EU passporting once CASP-authorised. One operational reality requires planning: Bulgaria remains on the FATF increased monitoring list, which means banks apply enhanced due diligence. Applications must include strong AML files, source-of-funds documentation, and a credible banking strategy.
This page covers Bulgarian VASP entities currently available for acquisition — available for operations during the transition window — alongside the full FSC CASP authorisation process for new applicants.
Legasset’s role covers both paths: ready-made VASP acquisition with FSC CASP application, and new CASP from scratch — programme of operations, governance, compliance policies, and FSC liaison.
Available Crypto Exchange Companies in Bulgaria For Sale
Crypto Exchange in Bulgaria for Sale
- Newly established company, freshly authorized.
- Smooth and expeditious ownership transfer process.
- Comprehensive setup with minimal monthly operational costs.
- We are available to provide support in establishing payment solutions for your convenience.
Active Bulgarian Crypto Exchange
- Loyal, experienced staff committed to staying with new ownership.
- Well-established PSP and liquidity accounts actively maintained.
- Robust, fully functional website and dependable technology partner.
- Pristine operational history with zero liabilities.
- Consistent 300K monthly trading volume with a dedicated customer base.
- Fast, seamless transfer of ownership.
- Full support available to integrate additional payment solutions.
Related EU crypto licences for MiCA transition
Key Takeaways for Crypto Exchange Operations in Bulgaria
- As of 2024, it is no longer possible to register a new company for crypto services in Bulgaria under the old regulatory framework. The country has aligned its regulations with the Markets in Crypto-Assets (MiCA) Regulation, which imposes stricter licensing requirements. Businesses looking to operate legally must either comply with the new law or acquire a ready-made crypto company with an existing license.
- No formal crypto license required. Bulgaria does not issue a specific crypto license in Bulgaria. Instead, firms must register with the National Revenue Agency (NRA) for AML compliance under the Measures Against Money Laundering Act (MAMLA).
- Quick and cost-effective setup. A Bulgarian LLC can be registered with just 2 BGN (~€1) in share capital, and NRA registration costs between €1,800-€2,200. The entire process can be completed within one month.
- MiCA compliance is required from 2024. The Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) introduces quarterly audits, client fund segregation, and stricter KYC rules, with penalties ranging from €5,000-€10,000for non-compliance.
- EU market access, but U.S. restrictions apply. Firms registered under the NRA can operate across the EU post-MiCA but cannot serve U.S. clients due to international regulatory restrictions.
- Favorable taxation, but banking challenges. Bulgaria offers a flat 10% corporate tax and no VAT on crypto trading, but local banks remain hesitant to serve crypto businesses. Most firms rely on European EMIs for banking.
Already registered crypto exchanges simplify entry. Buying a ready-made Bulgarian crypto exchange ensures NRA registration, operational readiness, and banking setup, reducing delays in launching crypto services.
What You Need to Know About Crypto Exchange Operations in Bulgaria
Table of Contents
Crypto exchange operations in Bulgaria target fintech firms aiming to launch a Bulgarian crypto exchange within the EU. These activities – crypto-to-crypto trading, wallet management, and custody services – reach 27 EU states but exclude U.S. markets due to regulatory limits. The National Revenue Agency (NRA) oversees this under MAMLA, not the FSC, as Bulgaria lacks a formal Bulgaria crypto license. Over 150 crypto entities registered with the NRA by late 2024, per its public registry. MiCA, effective December 30, 2024, mandates client fund segregation and audits – fines hit €5,000-€10,000 for lapses, per EU rules.
Starting requires a Bulgarian LLC (2 BGN capital, ~€1) and NRA registration, costing €1,800-€2,200. Annual audits add €5,000-€10,000 under MiCA. Banking delays often snag new firms – ready-made setups mitigate this. Our team at Legasset delivers crypto exchange Bulgaria solutions compliant with NRA and MiCA standards. Buying a registered entity or registering anew both demand due diligence – neither is inherently faster or cheaper.
Eligibility Requirements for Operating a Crypto Exchange in Bulgaria
To operate a crypto exchange in Bulgaria, businesses must register with the National Revenue Agency (NRA) for AML compliance rather than obtain a traditional crypto license in Bulgaria. Below are the key eligibility criteria:
1. Business Registration
- A Bulgarian LLC (OOD) is required, which can be registered with a minimum share capital of 2 BGN (~€1).
- Registration is done via the Commercial Register (Registry Agency), with company formation taking 5-10 business days.
2. NRA Registration & Compliance
- Firms must register with the NRA and comply with anti-money laundering (AML) laws under the Measures Against Money Laundering Act (MAMLA).
- NRA registration requires a €25 state fee and a compliance review, usually processed within 2-4 weeks.
3. Key Personnel & Compliance Officers
- A designated AML officer is mandatory, responsible for monitoring compliance with KYC, transaction monitoring, and suspicious activity reporting.
- No residency requirement for directors or shareholders, but all must pass criminal background checks.
4. Financial & Banking Requirements
- A corporate bank account is required, typically with a Bulgarian bank or European EMI.
- Due to banking restrictions, many firms rely on crypto-friendly European EMIs, but processing times vary.
5. Documentation Needed
To complete NRA registration, businesses must submit:
- Company registration certificate from the Commercial Register.
- BULSTAT code (company tax number).
- AML/KYC policy documentation aligned with MAMLA.
- Proof of business address (virtual offices are permitted).
- IDs and criminal record certificates for directors and shareholders.
- Business plan detailing operations, revenue model, and target markets.
6. MiCA Compliance (Effective 2024)
- The Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation (MiCA) applies from December 30, 2024, introducing quarterly audits, stricter KYC measures, and mandatory client fund segregation.
- Non-compliance results in fines ranging from €5,000-€10,000, requiring businesses to adapt to these new EU-wide rules.
Our team at Legasset ensures that all eligibility criteria are met before businesses start operations, guiding clients through each compliance step to prevent regulatory delays.
Pros and cons of Crypto License in Bulgaria
+ Low operational costs: a 25 EUR state fee and 1 EUR minimum share capital make Bulgaria cost-effective for startups.
+ Fast setup: company registration and NRA authorization can be completed in up to 1 month, ideal for clients needing quick market entry.
+ EU market access: post-MiCA (2025), NRA-registered firms may passport services across the EU, a standout benefit competitors highlight minimally.
+ Favorable tax regime: 10% corporate tax and no VAT on crypto-as-financial-services transactions reduce financial burdens.
+ No local presence required: no need for a physical office or local staff, making Bulgaria attractive for global operators.
- Lack of formal licensing: Bulgaria does not issue an official crypto license, which may create uncertainty for investors unfamiliar with its regulatory framework.
- Pending MiCA alignment: until 2025, firms face a transition period with potential compliance shifts, risking delays.
- Limited sandbox support: unlike some EU peers, Bulgaria’s Sofia Sandbox (planned 2020) isn’t active, hindering innovation testing.
- Tax complexity: while favorable, declaring crypto profits as financial asset gains requires diligent accounting, a pain point for novices.
- Banking challenges: reliance on European EMIs over local banks may complicate fiat integration for some clients.
How to Secure a Crypto Exchange Registration in Bulgaria
Setting up a crypto exchange in Bulgaria requires registration with the National Revenue Agency (NRA) for AML compliance rather than obtaining a formal crypto license Bulgaria. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what’s required and what to expect.
- Step 1. Establish a Bulgarian Company 5-7 business days
All crypto exchanges must operate under a registered Bulgarian Limited Liability Company (LLC).
What you need: select a company name, appoint directors, and deposit the minimum share capital of 2 BGN (~€1).
Cost: €1,800-€2,200, including legal fees and registration expenses. - Step 2. Register with the National Revenue Agency (NRA) up to 30 days
Crypto exchanges must be enrolled in the NRA’s public register for virtual asset service providers (VASPs).
What you need: submit an application including company details, AML/KYC policies, and proof of a designated compliance officer.
Cost: €25 state fee, with potential legal service fees. - Step 3. Implement AML Compliance Procedures ongoing, with regulatory updates applied as needed
MiCA, effective December 30, 2024, imposes stricter AML requirements on crypto firms, including customer verification and transaction monitoring.
What you need: create and enforce KYC checks, customer due diligence (CDD) procedures, and risk assessments for transactions over €15,000.
Cost: €3,000-€7,000 annually for compliance implementation and audits. - Step 4. Open a Corporate Bank or EMI Account 4-8 weeks
Securing a business account is a challenge for crypto companies, as many Bulgarian banks hesitate to work with VASPs. Most exchanges rely on European EMIs instead.
What you need: proof of NRA registration, a business plan, and strong AML compliance measures.
Cost: EMI account setup fees range from €500-€3,000 - Step 5. Maintain Ongoing Compliance ongoing, with quarterly reporting deadlines
Crypto exchanges must meet MiCA reporting obligations, including quarterly audits and transaction disclosures.
What you need: retain transaction records for five years, conduct internal risk assessments, and prepare for fines of €5,000-€10,000 for non-compliance.
Cost: €5,000-€10,000 annually for professional audits and regulatory oversight.
Summary of Timeline & Costs
- Company Registration: €1,800-€2,200; 5-7 days.
- NRA Registration: €25 fee; 14-30 days.
- AML Compliance Setup: €3,000-€7,000 annually; ongoing.
- Banking: €500-€3,000; 4-8 weeks.
- Ongoing Compliance: €5,000-€10,000 annually; quarterly audits.
At Legasset, we simplify entry into the Bulgarian crypto market with registered companies that come with NRA registration and compliance already in place. This removes the delays of setting up from scratch and ensures smooth regulatory approval. Get in touch to discuss the best approach for your business.
How MiCA Affects Crypto Exchange Licenses in Bulgaria
MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation) is now in force across the EU, with full application from 30 December 2024. As of March 2025, crypto firms in Bulgaria must prepare for full compliance – or risk losing access to the EU market. MiCA applies to Crypto-Asset Service Providers (CASPs), including crypto exchanges, wallet providers, and token issuers. All firms operating under Bulgaria’s current crypto registration regime must either reapply under MiCA or upgrade their operations to meet the new EU standards.
According to the ESMA Grandfathering Period List, Bulgaria is not listed. This means no transition period applies. Firms holding Bulgarian crypto registrations must now apply for a MiCA-compliant license through an EU member state or cease activities targeting EU customers.
Under MiCA, crypto exchange operators must meet key obligations:
- Hold at least €125,000 in share capital
- Establish an EU-based legal entity
- Appoint local, experienced directors and a compliance officer
- Implement AML/KYC systems, including onboarding, monitoring, and transaction reviews
- Set up IT, risk management, and custody frameworks for operational resilience
Bulgaria’s current registration regime does not meet MiCA requirements. Firms must reapply under the new framework to continue offering services legally across the EU.
How Legasset Assists With Your MiCA's Compliance
Legasset assists Bulgarian crypto operators with:
- Full MiCA license applications
- Capital structuring and governance planning
- Recruitment of local officers and compliance teams
- Drafting AML/KYC and internal control policies
- Long-term MiCA compliance setup
Act now to avoid service disruption and preserve EU market access. Legasset is your expert partner for MiCA licensing and compliance across Europe.
Do you need our help in getting compliant under MiCA?
Frequently Asked Questions About Operating a Crypto Exchange in Bulgaria
Does Bulgaria require a crypto license to operate an exchange?
No, there is no formal crypto license in Bulgaria. Instead, businesses offering crypto exchange, wallet services, or custody solutions must register with the National Revenue Agency (NRA) under Bulgaria’s anti-money laundering (AML) laws. This process ensures compliance with the Measures Against Money Laundering Act (MAMLA), but it is not a financial license issued by the Financial Supervision Commission (FSC).
What are the main requirements to start a Bulgarian crypto exchange?
To operate legally, you must:
- Register a Bulgarian LLC (minimum capital: 2 BGN / ~€1).
- Apply for NRA registration, proving AML/KYC readiness.
- Appoint an AML officer responsible for compliance.
- Implement AML/KYC policies aligned with MiCA (mandatory from December 30, 2024).
- Open a corporate bank or EMI account for fiat transactions.
- Submit transaction reports and pass quarterly audits, as required by EU regulations.
How long does it take to register a crypto company in Bulgaria?
The full process, including company setup and NRA registration, typically takes 3-5 weeks:
- LLC incorporation: 5-7 business days.
- NRA registration: Up to 30 days.
- Banking approval: 4-8 weeks, depending on the institution.
If you need a faster solution, registered Bulgarian crypto companies are available, allowing businesses to start operations immediately.
Can a Bulgarian-registered crypto exchange operate internationally?
Yes, but with restrictions. An NRA-registered crypto exchange can operate within the EU, particularly once MiCA takes full effect in 2025. However, U.S. clients are prohibited due to international regulatory limits, and exchanges must comply with local laws in other countries before offering services globally.
What are the costs of setting up a crypto exchange in Bulgaria?
The estimated costs include:
- Company formation: €1,800-€2,200 (including legal fees).
- NRA registration: €25 state fee.
- AML compliance setup: €3,000-€7,000 annually.
- Banking fees: €500-€3,000 for EMI account setup.
- Ongoing compliance: €5,000-€10,000 annually (quarterly audits, reporting, and AML updates).
How does MiCA impact crypto exchanges in Bulgaria?
As of December 30, 2024, MiCA (Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation) introduces stricter compliance requirements for crypto businesses operating within the EU, including:
- Quarterly audits and transaction reporting.
- Mandatory segregation of client funds.
- Higher penalties for AML breaches (€5,000-€10,000 fines per violation).
- More rigorous KYC standards for all customers.
Exchanges must ensure their policies align with these regulations to remain compliant.
Additional Links and Sources
For a comprehensive understanding of your crypto license in Bulgaria, Legasset offers these authoritative resources for 2025 regulatory details – essential for your operations.
I.Financial Supervision Commission (FSC) Bulgaria.
FSC outlines crypto regulations, including MiCA and €125,000 capital requirements – your compliance authority.
II. EU MiCA Regulation.
MiCA details 2024 rules, including client fund protection – key for your Bulgaria crypto exchange license.
III. IMF – Bulgaria.
IMF’s $103B GDP data provides context for Bulgaria’s market stability – relevant for your crypto license Bulgaria.
IV. World Bank – Bulgaria.
World Bank details economic stability and 10% tax rate – supporting your Bulgaria crypto exchange operations.
V. FATF – Bulgaria Profile.
FATF’s AML standards align with MAMLA and MiCA – vital for your crypto license in Bulgaria.
