Bulgarian gambling affiliates regulation framework now in force
The new system requires igaming affiliates to obtain licences from the National Revenue Agency (NRA).
Bulgaria.- It’s been confirmed that the new licensing system for gambling affiliates in Bulgaria has entered force. The system requires affiliates whose income is tied to player activity to obtain licences from the National Revenue Agency (NRA), which regulates gambling in Bulgaria.
Existing affiliates were given until August 15 to submit applications for licences. The short compliance window means businesses cannot treat the change as a gradual adjustment. Licences will be valid for five years and are open to both Bulgarian and foreign operators, but overseas affiliates must appoint a local representative with a Bulgarian address.
The regime applies to individuals or companies whose earnings depend on registrations, deposits, wagers, winnings or other measurable gambling activity. Traditional advertising purchased for a fixed fee remains outside the system, a distinction that has led to suggestions that gambling operators in Bulgaria may look to reshape online marketing models.
Applicants must declare every channel used to promote gambling, including websites, apps, social media accounts and streaming platforms, which will be recorded as part of the licence.
Affiliates must pay a fixed annual fee of €6,000, due by March 31 next year. In addition, they face a variable levy equal to 10 per cent of performance‑based commission, withheld and transferred monthly by the gambling operator.
Where commissions are concealed, the variable charge doubles to 20 per cent. Affiliates are also limited to promoting operators that hold a valid Bulgarian gaming licence.
The NRA has committed to processing applications within seven days. If documents are incomplete, applicants will be notified within three days and given another week to correct the issue.
New enforcement penalties
Meanwhile, the new framework has also introduced stronger penalties for unlicensed activity. Penalties range from roughly €5,000 to €20,000, with repeat offences carrying double fines. Money earned through unlicensed affiliate work can be confiscated.
The NRA can also order the blocking of websites, apps, social media profiles and streaming platforms linked to unlicensed affiliates. Telecom providers must restrict access within 24 hours after receiving a blocking order.
