Opening a bank account in Bulgaria as a foreigner (2026)
In short: EU citizens need an ID card or passport, an address and LNCh — often same day. Non-EU citizens usually need a passport, residence permit or type D visa, a Bulgarian address and LNCh. Packages cost roughly €8–20 a month.
Main banks: DSK Bank, UniCredit Bulbank, UBB, Postbank, Fibank. First accounts usually require an in-person visit; powers of attorney are rarely accepted. Pensioners need a Bulgarian account for the pensioner visa. See also LNCh.
Your right to a basic payment account
Bulgarian law gives consumers who are legally resident in the EU the right to a basic payment account, whatever their nationality or place of residence (Articles 117–121 of the Law on Payment Services and Payment Systems, which implements EU Directive 2014/92/EU). Every bank licensed by the Bulgarian National Bank (BNB) that offers payment services to consumers must offer it. It is an account for everyday payments, not a company account — companies have no such right.
When a bank can refuse
- You already hold a suitable payment account in Bulgaria.
- Opening the account would breach anti-money-laundering rules — for example, if you cannot prove your identity or address.
If a bank refuses, you should normally receive a prompt, written and free notice with the specific reason and information on how to complain to the BNB and the Conciliation Commission on Payment Disputes. Practice differs between banks, so bring all documents and ask for a refusal in writing.
The fees for the basic account are set in each bank's own tariff — check it before you go. This is general information, not legal advice.
FAQ
Can I open a Bulgarian bank account without residence?
EU citizens can. Many banks require non-EU citizens to have a residence permit or type D visa.
Can a Bulgarian bank refuse to open an account for a foreigner?
For a basic payment account, only on specific grounds: you already hold a suitable account in Bulgaria, or opening it would break anti-money-laundering rules. A bank that refuses should explain the reason in writing and tell you how to complain to the BNB.
What is a basic payment account in Bulgaria?
A simple account for everyday payments that every bank offering payment services to consumers must offer to consumers legally resident in the EU (Law on Payment Services and Payment Systems, Articles 117–121).
What can I do if my bank refuses to open an account?
Ask for the refusal in writing. You can complain to the bank, to the BNB and to the Conciliation Commission on Payment Disputes.
How much does a bank account cost in Bulgaria?
Account packages cost roughly €8–20 a month, depending on the bank and the package. Check the bank's current tariff before you choose.
📚 Sources: 2
For information only; not legal advice.
