Transfer of Property in Bulgaria – Complete Legal Process Explained
Transferring property ownership in Bulgaria requires strict legal compliance and careful document preparation.
Our law office supports both local and international clients, ensuring that every transaction follows Bulgarian property law and tax regulations.
We represent individuals, companies, and investment funds in cross-border real estate deals, including acquisitions, sales, and inheritance transfers. Our experience covers complex financing structures and multi-jurisdictional projects.
Why Choose Our Legal Services
Clients choose us for our precise, result-oriented approach. We coordinate all steps of the property transfer—from document verification to signing before a notary—ensuring a fast and legally secure process.
Our legal team assists foreign investors, banks, pension and hedge funds, and private buyers. We manage real estate projects throughout Bulgaria and ensure smooth cooperation between notaries, municipal offices, and the Registry Agency.
Documents Required for Property Transfer in Bulgaria
1. Property Title Deed (Notary Deed)
Proof of ownership signed before a notary and registered in the Registry Agency. It can be based on:
Purchase and sale agreement
Donation deed
Exchange deed
Court ruling or inheritance certificate
2. Land Registry Extract
Contains details about the property: boundaries, area, and any encumbrances (mortgages, easements, or claims).
3. Municipal Tax Assessment Certificate
Issued by the local municipality confirming all taxes are paid and the address matches the property title.
4. Certificate of Marital Status
Indicates whether the seller owns the property individually or jointly (community property regime).
5. Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
Required to confirm marital ownership status.
6. Declaration of Ownership Rights
If the property is not part of marital property, this must be explicitly declared.
7. Certificate of Burdens
Issued by the Registry Agency, verifying the absence of encumbrances or real rights registered over the property.
8. Plot or Land Plan
Mandatory for transfers involving land, yards, or parts of plots.
9. Certificate of Inheritance
If the property was inherited, a document proving legal succession is required.
10. Divorce Ruling (if applicable)
For properties owned before or after a divorce, the court decision dissolving the marriage must be attached.
11. Partition Agreement or Court Ruling
If the property is subject to division among co-owners, this must be registered with the Registry Agency.
12. Certificate of Tax Evaluation
Issued by the local tax office; confirms no outstanding obligations.
13. Power of Attorney (if applicable)
When the owner cannot appear personally, a notarized power of attorney authorizes another person to sign.
14. Declarations Required by Law
Declaration under Article 25(7) of the Notaries and Notary Practices Act
Declaration under Article 264(1) of the Bulgarian Tax and Social Insurance Procedure Code
15. Identity Documents
Both buyer and seller must present valid IDs for verification before the notary.
16. Construction or Occupancy Documents
For new buildings or developments, builder-issued certificates or occupancy permits must be included.
17. Additional Documents
Depending on the transaction’s nature, more documents may be required (e.g., for agricultural land, foreign ownership, or REIT transactions).
Step-by-Step Legal Procedure
Legal Check of Ownership – A Bulgarian lawyer reviews all title documents for authenticity and encumbrances.
Tax and Fee Verification – Municipal taxes and notary fees are calculated and paid in advance.
Preparation of Draft Notary Deed – The notary prepares the transfer deed for signing.
Signing Before Notary – Buyer and seller (or their representatives) sign the deed.
Registration at the Registry Agency – The transaction becomes legally effective upon registration.
Legal Assistance for Property Transfers
Every property deal in Bulgaria must comply with the Notary and Notary Practice Act, Tax and Social Insurance Procedure Code, and the Ownership Act.
Legal assistance ensures:
Verification of seller’s ownership rights
Compliance with tax obligations
Protection against hidden claims and encumbrances
Smooth registration with Bulgarian authorities
Our law office prepares and reviews all property transfer documents, represents clients before the notary, and handles communication with municipal and registry institutions.
Transferring a property in Bulgaria involves multiple legal steps and formal requirements. Having an experienced Bulgarian property lawyer guarantees that your transaction is valid, compliant, and risk-free.
For professional legal assistance in buying, selling, or transferring property in Bulgaria — contact our law office.
📞 Call: +359 888 350 643
📧 Email: info@lawyer-bulgaria.bg
🌐 Website: www.lawyer-bulgaria.co.uk
