Best Sanctions & Export Controls Lawyers in Bulgaria

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P&N law
Sofia, Bulgaria

Founded in 2023
4 people in their team
Bulgarian
English
Italian
Corporate & Commercial Sanctions & Export Controls Government Relations & Lobbying +4 more
A boutique law firm in Bulgaria specializing in corporate, commercial, and intellectual property (IP) law offers personalized legal services to businesses and individuals. This firm provides expert advice on company formation, mergers and acquisitions, contract negotiations, and compliance with...
Georgiev & Petrov Law Firm
Sofia, Bulgaria

Founded in 2018
30 people in their team
Bulgarian
English
Corporate & Commercial Sanctions & Export Controls Administrative +14 more
A cornerstone of our services lies in Company and Corporate Law, encompassing company, association, and foundation registrations; mergers; acquisitions; splits; spin-offs; changes of legal form; share or stock transactions; and company liquidation and insolvency proceedings.We are a Bulgarian team...
Geffen Law Firm

Geffen Law Firm

15 minutes Free Consultation
Sofia, Bulgaria

Founded in 2010
2 people in their team
Bulgarian
English
Russian
Hebrew (modern)
Corporate & Commercial Sanctions & Export Controls Business Registration +7 more
Geffen Law Firm - Legal Support in Bulgaria for Real Estate, Business & ResidencyGeffen Law Firm is a Sofia-based boutique law practice providing practical and results-driven legal solutions to international clients-especially from Israel, Germany, and the UK-looking to invest, live, or expand...

Founded in 2010
English
Green Light Business Consult, established in 2010, is a distinguished law firm based in Sofia, Bulgaria, specializing in migration law, investment services, and comprehensive business support. The firm's team comprises seasoned attorneys and legal experts proficient in Bulgarian and EU legislation,...
Weknowthelaw
Dobrich, Bulgaria

Founded in 2019
3 people in their team
Bengali
German
Dutch
Weknowthelaw is a legal consulting practice. We are aiming and investing our efforts to be trusted adviser to the Bulgarian and International business. Weknowthelaw provides a broad range of integrated services with particular strength in M&A, Corporate and Commercial, Banking & Finance,...

Founded in 2005
English
Dinova Rusev & Partners Law Office, established in 2005, is a full-service law firm based in Sofia, Bulgaria, offering a comprehensive range of legal services to both corporate clients and individuals. The firm is recognized for its results-oriented and personalized approach, delivering...

Founded in 2005
10 people in their team
Bulgarian
English
Vassilev & Partners Law Firm is a dynamic and business-oriented law practice that provides high quality legal services to local and foreign corporate clients. We support entities already established in the Bulgarian market, as well as foreign investors who strive to start and develop their...
Lawyer Plamen Kirilov
Sofia, Bulgaria

English
Lawyer Plamen Kirilov is a distinguished legal professional based in Bulgaria, offering comprehensive legal services to a diverse clientele. With a strong foundation in various areas of law, the firm is committed to delivering tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of each client. The firm's...
Ivanov&Yonkova Law Firm
Sofia, Bulgaria

Founded in 2019
2 people in their team
English
German
French
Bulgarian
Ivanov & Yonkova Law Firm has been established in January 2019 by Doychin Ivanov, attorney-at-law, and Tsveta Ivanova-Yonkova, attorney-at-law after every one of them acquired more than 10 years of legal experience. For the past years since then Ivanov & Yonkova Law Firm established itself...
Legal Frame

Legal Frame

15 minutes Free Consultation
Sofia, Bulgaria

Founded in 2019
5 people in their team
English
Bulgarian
Russian
Legal Frame Law Firm was established in 2019. Since then, he has been successfully protecting the interests of his clients, offering complex legal services. Our range of services is in the fields of company and financial law, data protection, property and family law, civil and administrative law....
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About Sanctions & Export Controls Law in Bulgaria

Sanctions and export controls are legal tools used by governments to regulate or restrict trade with certain countries, organizations, or individuals. In Bulgaria, these rules are essential for maintaining compliance with both European Union (EU) regulations and United Nations (UN) mandates. The laws aim to ensure that exports of specific goods, services, or technologies do not contribute to activities such as armed conflict, the development of weapons of mass destruction, or other threats to international and national security. Since Bulgaria is an EU member state, it aligns its sanctions and export controls closely with broader EU frameworks while also implementing additional national measures when necessary.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

The regulatory landscape around sanctions and export controls in Bulgaria is complex and constantly evolving to respond to geopolitical changes. You may need legal assistance in the following situations:

  • Exporting or importing goods, technology, or services that may fall under EU or international sanctions
  • Dealing with frozen assets or financial restrictions related to sanctioned entities or individuals
  • Conducting due diligence for international transactions or clients to ensure compliance
  • Facing investigations or enforcement actions from Bulgarian authorities or EU bodies
  • Seeking guidance on how to apply for licenses or exemptions under local or EU export control regimes
  • Responding to legal disputes or liability arising from suspected breaches of sanctions or export controls

An experienced lawyer can help you interpret complex laws, avoid costly mistakes, and represent your interests before regulatory authorities.

Local Laws Overview

Bulgarian sanctions and export controls are primarily governed by:

  • EU regulations, which are directly applicable in Bulgaria, forming the core legal framework for sanctions and export control measures
  • The Law on the Implementation of Restrictive Measures in view of the Actions of Russia limiting certain economic relations
  • The Law on the Control of Exports of Dual-Use Items and Technologies, which governs export, transit, and brokering of goods and technologies that can serve both civilian and military purposes
  • Various government decrees and ministerial orders that implement and enforce both EU and national measures

Enforcement is typically the responsibility of the Ministry of Economy, the Customs Agency, the State Agency for National Security, and other competent authorities. Businesses and individuals are expected to keep updated with the latest lists of controlled goods, sanctioned parties, and newly imposed restrictions, as non-compliance can result in significant penalties, including fines and criminal prosecution.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of goods are subject to export controls in Bulgaria?

Goods subject to export controls include dual-use items, specialized military equipment, sensitive technologies, certain chemicals, and products listed under EU export control regulations.

Who is responsible for enforcing export control and sanctions laws in Bulgaria?

The main enforcement authorities are the Ministry of Economy, the Bulgarian Customs Agency, and the State Agency for National Security.

Do EU sanctions apply automatically in Bulgaria?

Yes, EU sanctions are directly applicable in Bulgaria by virtue of EU membership, and they are enforced by Bulgarian authorities.

Is it possible to obtain a license to export controlled goods from Bulgaria?

Yes, you can apply for an export license from the Ministry of Economy, but approval depends on the type of goods, end-user, and destination country.

What are the penalties for violating sanctions or export controls?

Penalties can include administrative fines, confiscation of goods, criminal charges, and reputational damage for the individuals or companies involved.

How can businesses ensure compliance with sanctions in Bulgaria?

Businesses must conduct due diligence, screen clients and transactions against sanctions lists, maintain proper documentation, and seek legal advice when in doubt.

Are services and technology transfers also covered by export controls?

Yes, export controls in Bulgaria cover not just physical goods but also intangible transfers of technology, technical assistance, and related services.

What should I do if I detect a potential or actual breach?

You should immediately seek legal advice, cooperate with authorities, and take corrective actions to mitigate potential penalties or liabilities.

Can Bulgarian authorities investigate or seize goods at the border?

Yes, customs authorities are empowered to inspect, detain, or seize goods suspected of violating sanctions or export controls.

Are there any exemptions or exceptions to restrictions?

Some exemptions may apply for humanitarian goods, personal use items, or if special licenses are granted, but all require official approval from the relevant authority.

Additional Resources

If you require legal guidance or want to learn more about sanctions and export controls in Bulgaria, the following resources can be useful:

  • Ministry of Economy - for licenses, guidance, and compliance updates
  • Bulgarian Customs Agency - for practical information on import and export procedures
  • State Agency for National Security - for national security and compliance concerns
  • European Commission - for up-to-date EU sanctions regulations and lists
  • Legal professional associations and law firms specializing in international trade and sanctions law

Next Steps

If you are facing questions or challenges regarding sanctions or export controls in Bulgaria, consider the following steps:

  • Identify and document the goods, services, or transactions in question
  • Check the relevant EU and Bulgarian laws and authoritative sanctions lists
  • Consult with a lawyer experienced in sanctions and export controls to assess your specific situation
  • Prepare necessary documentation and, if needed, file for licenses or authorizations with the Ministry of Economy
  • Implement or update your internal compliance policies to prevent future legal risks

Acting proactively with the support of a knowledgeable legal advisor can help you navigate complex regulations, avoid penalties, and ensure lawful business operations in Bulgaria.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Bulgaria through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Sanctions & Export Controls, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Bulgaria - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.