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In mid-2025, Bulgaria introduced important legal changes affecting Trade Representative Offices (TROs). These updates apply to both newly registered offices and existing ones. If you plan to use a TRO as a basis for residence in Bulgaria, it is essential to understand the new rules and compliance requirements.
Below is a practical overview of what changed and how this option still works in 2026.
What is a Trade Representative Office in Bulgaria?
A Trade Representative Office is a non-commercial presence of a foreign company in Bulgaria, registered with the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI). While a TRO cannot carry out commercial activity or generate local revenue, it allows the foreign company to establish an official presence and appoint representatives in Bulgaria.
For many third-country nationals, this structure has traditionally been one of the most accessible legal grounds for obtaining long-term residence in Bulgaria.
Key legal requirements for Trade Representative Offices in Bulgaria
Limit on the number of representatives
As of mid-2025, a foreign company may appoint up to two foreign nationals as trade representatives in Bulgaria. Previously, the law allowed three representatives. This limitation applies to each registered TRO and requires careful planning when selecting representatives.
Minimum turnover requirement
The foreign parent company must show a minimum annual turnover of BGN 100,000 for each of the last two completed calendar years. Authorities introduced this rule to ensure that only active and financially stable businesses register Trade Representative Offices in Bulgaria.
Physical office and active representation
A Trade Representative Office must operate from a real office address in Bulgaria. The parent company must also prove ongoing activity by providing updated certificates of good standing from its home jurisdiction.
Companies must notify the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry of any changes. They have 30 days to report changes related to the parent company and 7 days for changes affecting the TRO itself.
Transition period for existing TROs
Trade Representative Offices registered before mid-2025 must comply with the new requirements within two years. If they fail to do so, the Chamber may deregister the TRO. In such cases, representatives may also lose the right to renew their residence permits.
Immigration options for trade representatives
A registered trade representative may apply for a Bulgarian long-term Visa D. This visa allows multiple entries and stays of up to six months while the residence permit application is pending.
After entering Bulgaria with Visa D, the representative may apply for a residence permit based on their official role in the Trade Representative Office. Authorities usually issue the initial residence permit for one year. The permit remains renewable as long as the TRO continues to meet legal requirements.
After five consecutive years of lawful residence, a representative may qualify for permanent residence. To do so, they must have spent at least 30 months physically present in Bulgaria during this period.
How to register a Trade Representative Office in Bulgaria
The process starts with verifying the eligibility of the foreign parent company. The company must have at least two years of activity, a clean tax record, and the required turnover. Authorities accept only official documents such as certificates of good standing, financial statements, and tax certificates, properly legalized for use in Bulgaria.
The next step involves securing office space in Bulgaria. The company must maintain this office for the entire period during which the TRO operates.
After that, the company registers the Trade Representative Office with the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. This step includes submitting corporate documents and registering the appointed representatives together with their signature specimens.
Once the registration is complete, the representatives may apply for Visa D at the Bulgarian consulate in their country of citizenship or legal residence. After entering Bulgaria, they may proceed with the residence permit application.
Why the TRO option still makes sense
Despite stricter rules, the Trade Representative Office remains one of the most cost-efficient legal grounds for long-term residence in Bulgaria for non-EU nationals. This structure still offers a residence pathway without the need for large capital investments or company incorporation in Bulgaria.
For many professionals and business owners, it continues to serve as a practical entry point to lawful residence in the EU.
How Switch2BG can assist
Switch2BG supports clients throughout the entire process. We assess eligibility, prepare and coordinate documents, handle registration with the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and assist with visa and residence applications.
If you consider registering a Trade Representative Office in Bulgaria or using it as a basis for residence, contact us for a tailored assessment aligned with your plans and goals.