Key takeaways
- Bulgaria’s National Revenue Agency is finalizing the OECD-based SAF-T framework, with rollout expected to start as early as January 1 2025.
- A six-month pilot phase will allow large taxpayers to voluntarily test the system before mandatory adoption.
- After one year, large enterprises will begin mandatory filings; medium businesses join by month 36; micro-enterprises by month 60.
- Monthly reports must include general-ledger, sales, purchase, and payment data, while annual asset reports are also required.
- Authorities will next define the scope, data structure, and technical standards as the legislative framework is finalized.
Bulgaria is set to introduce the international standard known as the Standard Audit File for Tax (SAF-T) to streamline how businesses and tax authorities exchange information. This electronic system, developed by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), aims to make the process more efficient.
The implementation of SAF-T in Bulgaria will be implemented in phases, prioritizing large taxpayers first. This is expected to begin as early as January 1, 2025. An initial version of the SAF-T, tailored to fit the OECD framework as closely as possible, is now available on the National Revenue Agency’s website.
A phased approach
The phased rollout of SAF-T is designed to help businesses systematically prepare for new reporting duties.
The rollout will begin with a six-month pilot testing phase where large taxpayers voluntarily file to test the system. After one year, once the legal framework is adopted, large enterprises must start mandatory filings. By the 24-month mark, all large taxpayers are required to comply.
Medium-sized businesses will join with mandatory filings by the 36-month mark. After 48 months, the requirement expands to all businesses, unless specifically exempt. Finally, by 60 months post-adoption, even micro-enterprises registered for VAT must file, with certain exceptions for those not physically established in Bulgaria.
Reporting frequency
The reporting requirements for businesses under the SAF-T will vary based on the frequency of submissions. Monthly reports will need to include general ledger details, along with records of purchases, sales, and payments. Every year, businesses will be required to submit information about their assets. Additionally, data concerning the movement of goods must be provided upon request.
What’s next?
The next stages will involve detailing the SAF-T’s scope, defining mandatory and optional data sections, setting the official start dates for filing obligations, and outlining the necessary technical preparations. These specifications will be decided as the legislative framework is drafted and finalized.
Frequently asked questions
When does Bulgaria’s SAF-T rollout begin?
Pilot testing for large taxpayers is expected to begin January 1 2025.
How will implementation be phased?
Large enterprises first, then medium, small, and micro-businesses over a 60-month period.
What information must be reported?
Monthly ledgers, sales, purchases, payments, and annually — asset data.
Is participation voluntary at first?
Yes, during the six-month pilot phase before the legal mandate begins.
What’s the aim of SAF-T?
To simplify information exchange between taxpayers and the tax administration, improving efficiency and compliance.
Will smaller businesses eventually be included?
Yes, micro-enterprises registered for VAT will be required to file by the end of the phased rollout, with limited exemptions.
Where can businesses access technical details?
On the National Revenue Agency (NRA) website, which hosts the draft SAF-T schema.
