The introduction of the SAF-T (Standard Audit File for Tax) standard is one of the most significant changes in accounting reporting in Bulgaria. Here are the key points and risks that businesses need to be aware of:
What is SAF-T?
SAF-T is a standardised XML format for the electronic exchange of accounting and tax data, developed by the OECD and already implemented in a number of European countries. The Bulgarian version, managed by the NRA, will be adapted to local legislation and accounting practice.
What does the file include?
- Invoices and payments
- Accounting entries and chart of accounts
- Stock levels and movements
- Asset and ownership data
All of this must be submitted in a strictly defined XML format that allows automatic verification by the NRA.
Implementation timeline
- 2026 - large enterprises (over BGN 300 million turnover or over BGN 3.5 million liabilities)
- 2027-2028 - extended to medium and small companies
- 2029-2030 - all VAT-registered entities
The assessment is based on data from the preceding two years.
How is it submitted?
- Monthly - by the 14th, together with the VAT return
- Annually - by 30 June, with the annual tax declaration
- On request - for inventories
Grace period
The first 6 monthly reports may be corrected up to the deadline for the seventh - a reasonable window for adaptation.
What does this mean for businesses?
SAF-T will affect almost all companies - from large enterprises to freelancers. The main challenge is not the submission itself, but ensuring the accuracy and consistency of the data. Discrepancies between declared and actual figures will be detected automatically, creating a risk of fines and blocked operations.
How to prepare?
- Check whether your accounting software supports SAF-T
- Generate a test file and validate it
- Analyse your inventory and customer reporting
- Review internal processes - even if you use external accounting services
What else to expect?
By the end of 2025, official guidelines and a testing environment are expected to be published, along with clarity on mandatory data categories.
Conclusion: SAF-T is not merely a technical change - it is a new model of reporting. 2025 is the last opportunity for calm preparation. If you miss it, 2026 could begin with errors, fines and blocked operations.
Start now. Talk to your accountant. Run a test simulation. This will show you where the weak points are and give you time to fix them.