⚠️ This guide was researched and updated in May 2026. Laws and regulations change frequently. For specific legal advice regarding your jurisdiction, please consult with local legal counsel.

Bulgaria Will & Estate Planning Guide

Read about will creation and estate planning in Bulgaria. This guide covers witness rules, probate processes and jurisdiction-specific considerations that may apply. Rules vary, so consult a qualified professional for advice on your circumstances.

Estate Planning in Bulgaria at a Glance

Bulgaria follows civil law system with EU harmonisation. Both notarial and holographic wills accepted. Forced heirship protects spouse and children's inheritance rights. Progressive inheritance tax based on relationship and estate value.

EU civil law system
Notarial or holographic wills accepted
Forced heirship for spouse/children
Progressive inheritance tax 0.4-6.6%
BGN 250k threshold for close relatives
District court or notary validation
EU succession regulation applies

Will Requirements in Bulgaria

Creating a will in Bulgaria typically involves national rules and any local variations. Witness requirements, signing procedures and other formalities can vary by jurisdiction, so consult a qualified professional for advice specific to your circumstances.

Witness Requirements: Notarial will: notary public plus 2 witnesses. Holographic: none but must be entirely handwritten

Holographic Wills:Handwritten wills may be recognised

Inheritance Tax in Bulgaria

Tax Rate: 0-6.6%

Tax Threshold: 138,550 USD

Direct descendants pay no tax

Family Shares and Estate Administration in Bulgaria

Protected family shares: Surviving spouse and children have legitimate portion (reserved share) of 1/2 of estate. Parents entitled to 1/3 if no spouse/children. Legitimate heirs cannot be fully disinherited except for legal causes.

Administering the estate: District court or notary public handles inheritance certificates. Process typically takes 3-6 months. EU succession certificate available for cross-border estates. Property registration with cadastre required.

Related Resources

What Happens Without a Will?

Read about intestacy rules and how an estate may be distributed if you die without a will.

Global Inheritance Tax Guide

Compare inheritance tax rates, thresholds and exemptions across countries.

Digital & Physical Will Signatures

How signing rules differ across jurisdictions and where digital signatures may be accepted.

Estate Planning Information for Bulgaria

This guide is for information only. We don’t yet have coverage for Bulgaria. Register your interest below and we’ll let you know when coverage becomes available, or find a qualified professional for advice on your circumstances.

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