Freelancers & Consultants: Austria vs Bulgaria VAT Rules
How VAT obligations differ for freelancers & consultants between Austria and Bulgaria.
| Criterion | Austria | Bulgaria |
|---|---|---|
| Standard rate applied | 20% | 20% |
| Registration threshold | €35,000 annual turnover | BGN 100,000 (~€51,000) |
| Filing frequency | Monthly or quarterly | Monthly |
| Invoicing constraints | Standard EU requirements. Cash register obligation for most businesses. Mandatory digital receipt storage. | Standard EU invoice requirements. Invoices must be in Bulgarian or bilingual. Fiscal receipts required for cash sales. |
| Sector-relevant regimes | Cash register obligation with tamper-proof technology · Reverse charge for construction services · Tourist VAT refund scheme | Mandatory fiscal device for cash transactions · Reverse charge for grain and waste trading · Special scheme for tour operators |
| Penalty exposure | 2% late payment surcharge, 10% late filing penalty. | Penalty of 5% of VAT due per month, minimum BGN 500. Criminal liability for large-scale evasion. |
Typical use cases
Digital Services
Software development, design, marketing, and other digital deliverables.
Consulting Services
Management, strategy, and advisory consulting engagements.
Creative Services
Photography, videography, writing, and artistic services.
Training & Coaching
Professional training, workshops, and coaching sessions.
Translation & Localization
Translation, interpretation, and content localization services.
Disclaimer : This tool is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional tax advice. Consult a qualified tax advisor for decisions regarding your tax situation.Source : EU VAT Directive 2006/112/EC
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