Sometimes life forces us to make decisions we never imagined – and that’s exactly how Mikhail’s journey to Bulgaria began.
The experienced copywriter from Russia had specialized in English-language content since 2015, working with international clients and living as a freelancer. But when the war broke out in 2022, everything changed: for safety and political reasons, he had to leave the country – with nothing but a backpack, laptop, and a few clothes.
Bulgaria was completely unknown territory for him. He knew no one, didn’t speak the language, and had never been there before. Through Facebook, he quickly found temporary accommodation in Sofia. Through that he got enough time to settle in, open a bank account, and lay the foundation for a new start.
Why Mikhail Decided to Start a Business in Bulgaria
In Bulgaria, Mikhail dissolved his Russian business registration and founded an OOD – the most popular company form for small businesses. The registration was surprisingly quick: everything was official after just one day. With the help of a friend who had already founded several companies, he received the necessary document templates, found an accountant, and was ready to go.
While his location changed, his client base remained largely the same. Mikhail continued working for international clients, including a Belarusian marketing agency and a travel agency that had relocated to Cyprus. His network stayed global – he has never had a local client in Bulgaria.
Starting a Business in Bulgaria – Opportunities and Cultural Differences
What struck Mikhail early on was Bulgaria’s more relaxed, but also less predictable business culture. Shops were sometimes closed during posted opening hours, meetings could be rescheduled at short notice, and planning was often less structured than in Western Europe. He recalls running a debating club, only to find the coworking space owner had left for a team-building trip to Greece without notice.
These experiences taught him patience and flexibility. “If a local isn’t stressed, there’s probably no reason to be,” he advises.
The Advantages of Starting a Business in Bulgaria
Bulgaria offers clear benefits for entrepreneurs: low corporate taxes, affordable social security contributions, and lower living costs. At the same time, one must accept a lower standard of public services and a “do it yourself” mentality. Mikhail calls it the “Wild East of Europe” – a place where creative and resilient people can build a good life.
Want more inspiring stories? Explore the experiences of other entrepreneurs in Bulgaria and check out our overview post on how to start a business here—packed with tips, insights, and real success stories.
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