A Guide to Bulgaria’s SAF-T Reporting Framework
As Bulgaria embraces tax administration digitalization, businesses must gear up for the adoption of the Standard Audit File for Tax (SAF-T). This reform, introduced in the 2025 State Budget Act, mandates SAF-T compliance starting in 2026. Early preparation is essential to meet this regulatory milestone effectively.
Understanding Bulgaria’s SAF-T Introduction
The SAF-T framework enables efficient electronic data exchange between taxpayers and tax authorities. Originally developed by the OECD, this standard has been implemented in several countries, including Romania and Ukraine.
Who Needs to Comply?
- Starting January 2026: Large enterprises in Bulgaria meeting specific criteria must submit SAF-T files.
- By 2030: Most enterprises, excluding certain micro-businesses and budget entities, will also need to comply.
- Foreign Businesses: Permanent establishments in Bulgaria may also fall under this obligation based on their activities.
A six-month grace period allows businesses some flexibility during the initial stages of compliance.
Key SAF-T Reporting Details
- Frequency of Submissions:
- Monthly: Accounting entries, invoices, and payments by the 14th.
- Annual: Asset-related data.
- Upon Request: Stock movement details.
- Scope of Data:
- Includes suppliers, customers, invoices, payments, stock movements, and assets.
- Specific details will be outlined by the NRA through further guidance.
- Flexibility and Burden Reduction:
- To minimize administrative strain, the SAF-T framework segments reporting by type and frequency.
Preparing for SAF-T Compliance
Affected businesses must take proactive measures to ensure readiness:
- Internal Assessments: Identify whether your enterprise qualifies as an “obliged person.”
- Technology Review: Assess and upgrade systems to meet SAF-T data exchange requirements.
- Employee Training: Equip teams with knowledge on SAF-T implementation processes.
- Seek Expert Guidance: Consult tax advisors to navigate compliance effectively.
Implications for Businesses
Adopting SAF-T is more than a regulatory requirement—it’s an opportunity to enhance transparency and efficiency in tax reporting. Businesses should prioritize compliance planning now to ensure smooth integration of SAF-T processes and avoid potential penalties.
What is SAF-T Reporting in Bulgaria?
The Standard Audit File for Tax in Bulgaria (SAF-T Bulgaria) is an internationally recognized electronic tax reporting format established by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). It standardizes the exchange of accounting data between businesses and tax authorities, ensuring transparency and compliance. Bulgaria is preparing to implement SAF-T Bulgaria in a phased approach, starting in January 2026, to streamline financial reporting and improve tax oversight.
SAF-T Deadlines in Bulgaria
Businesses required to comply with Standart Audit File tax in Bulgaria must submit their reports according to the following schedule:
- Monthly reports – Due by the 14th day of the month following the reporting period.
- Annual reports on fixed assets – Due by June 30 of the following year.
- On-demand reporting – SAF-T Bulgaria files to be provided upon request by tax authorities.
Is SAF-T Mandatory in Bulgaria?
Yes, SAF-T reporting is mandatory in Bulgaria. However, its introduction will occur in phases, allowing businesses to adapt gradually to the SAF-T Bulgaria requirements. Companies must ensure their accounting systems align with SAF-T Bulgaria standards to avoid non-compliance issues.
When Is SAF-T Introduced in Bulgaria?
Bulgaria will introduce Bulgaria SAF-T reporting gradually, beginning on January 1, 2026, with different implementation phases based on company size and turnover:
- January 2026 – Large enterprises with net sales exceeding BGN 300 million or tax contributions over BGN 3.5 million in 2023.
- January 2027 – Large, medium, and small enterprises meeting the same criteria based on 2024 data.
- January 2028 – Enterprises with net sales above BGN 15 million or tax contributions over BGN 1.5 million in 2025.
- January 2029 – All large, medium, and small enterprises, regardless of turnover.
- January 2030 – Micro-enterprises will also be required to comply with SAF-T Bulgaria regulations.
To facilitate the transition, a six-month grace period will be granted for the first submission, during which non-compliance with SAF-T Bulgaria will not be penalized.
SAF-T Requirements in Bulgaria
The SAF-T Bulgaria reporting structure consists of several key elements:
Monthly Reports:
- General Ledger – Detailed financial transaction records.
- Accounts Payable and Receivable – Information on outstanding debts and payments.
- Sales and Purchase Invoices – Documentation of all business transactions.
Annual Reports:
- Fixed Assets – Data on long-term assets, including property, machinery, and equipment.
On-Demand Reports:
- Inventory – Stock levels and movement details, submitted upon tax authorities’ request.
All SAF-T Bulgaria reports must follow the prescribed XML format, ensuring consistency in data reporting and facilitating digital tax audits.
SAF-T Declaration in Bulgaria
Businesses must maintain and submit SAF-T Bulgaria-compliant records based on their reporting obligations. The monthly SAF-T Bulgaria reports must be submitted by the 14th of the following month, while fixed asset declarations are due annually by June 30. Inventory reports under SAF-T Bulgaria requirements are required only when specifically requested by the tax authorities. Companies should ensure their accounting data is accurate and properly formatted to meet SAF-T Bulgaria compliance standards.
What Companies Must Declare SAF-T in Bulgaria?
SAF-T Bulgaria reporting obligations apply to businesses of all sizes, introduced in phases as follows:
- From 2026: Large enterprises exceeding specific turnover or tax contribution thresholds.
- From 2027–2029: Gradual inclusion of medium and small enterprises.
- From 2030: Mandatory for micro-enterprises.
This structured rollout allows businesses sufficient time to transition and integrate SAF-T Bulgaria reporting into their financial systems effectively.
Bulgaria’s adoption of SAF-T Bulgaria aims to enhance tax transparency, streamline audits, and improve regulatory compliance. While mandatory submission deadlines vary depending on company size and financial activity, all businesses must prepare for SAF-T Bulgaria compliance. Understanding SAF-T Bulgaria requirements and implementing the necessary accounting systems will ensure a smooth transition and adherence to Bulgaria’s Standard Audit File Tax in Bulgaria framework.