Qualified electronic signature (KEP) in Bulgaria for foreigners: what it is for and how to get one
A KEP is a qualified electronic signature (квалифициран електронен подпис). With one, a lot of Bulgarian paperwork can be done online instead of at a counter: filing an application, signing a document, changing your GP.
In short: under the EU eIDAS regulation a qualified electronic signature has the same legal effect as a handwritten one. In Bulgaria it is issued by private providers, in an office or remotely through an app. Evrotrust issues the certificate free of charge; its smart-card KEP costs from €40.90 for two years.
What it is
A KEP is a certificate tied to your identity that you use to sign files and online applications. EU Regulation 910/2014 (eIDAS) states that a qualified electronic signature has the equivalent legal effect of a handwritten signature and is recognised in every EU country.
There are two kinds: on a smart card (you need a card reader for your computer) and in the cloud, where the provider keeps the key and you sign in a phone app.
Where you need it
- Your GP. The registration form for changing your GP can be filed on the health fund (NZOK) website, and it must be signed electronically. You can change your GP from 1 to 30 June and from 1 to 31 December; see health insurance.
- Taxes and other public services. Many authorities accept applications online with a KEP, which saves trips with paper. Check the authority's own website for what can be filed.
- Banks and contracts. Some banks and companies sign contracts with customers electronically, for example through Evrotrust.
How to get one
- Choose a provider. Several qualified providers issue KEPs in Bulgaria, for example B-Trust, Evrotrust and InfoNotary. Everyone allowed to issue qualified signatures is on the EU trusted lists.
- Prove your identity at the provider's or a partner's office with an identity document, or remotely: Evrotrust's cloud signature is set up with identification in its app, without visiting an office.
- Receive the certificate on the card or in the app and sign a test document.
What it costs
Evrotrust issues the certificate to individuals free of charge, and its free plan includes three signatures; more signatures come with a subscription priced in the app. Evrotrust's smart-card KEP for individuals costs from €40.90 and is valid for two years. Other providers publish their own prices, which change and depend on how long the certificate runs.
What to check first
- Whether the authority accepts it. Ask the provider whether its KEP works on the site where you will sign (NZOK, the tax office and so on).
- What the certificate contains. Bulgarian authorities identify you by your EGN or LNCh. If you have an LNCh, ask the provider whether it will be in the certificate.
- Expiry. The certificate runs for a fixed term — note when to renew it.
FAQ
What is a KEP in Bulgaria?
A qualified electronic signature (квалифициран електронен подпис). Under the EU eIDAS regulation it has the same legal effect as a handwritten signature.
Can a foreigner get a KEP in Bulgaria?
Yes, it is issued to a named person after an identity check. Ask the provider which documents it needs and whether your LNCh will be in the certificate.
How much does a KEP cost?
Evrotrust issues the certificate free and includes three signatures in its free plan; its smart-card KEP costs from €40.90 for two years. Other providers set their own prices.
Can I change my GP online with a KEP?
Yes: the registration form can be filed on the NZOK website, signed electronically. GP changes are allowed from 1 to 30 June and from 1 to 31 December.
📚 Sources: 5
For information only; not legal advice.
