Financial Crime World

Bulgaria Adopts Tough Anti-Money Laundering Regulations to Combat Financial Crimes

Introduction

In an effort to prevent financial crimes and safeguard its financial system, Bulgaria has implemented a robust anti-money laundering (AML) framework that aligns with European Union (EU) directives and international standards. As a member of the EU, Bulgaria is required to comply with stringent AML regulations to combat money laundering and terrorist financing.

Key Components of Bulgaria’s AML Regime

  • The Money Laundering Act
  • Anti-Money Laundering Measures Act
  • Criminal Code

These pieces of legislation govern the country’s AML regime, which is overseen by several key regulatory authorities:

  • Financial Supervision Commission (FSC)
  • Bulgarian National Bank (BNB)
  • Financial Intelligence Directorate (FID)
  • Ministry of Finance

Compliance Requirements for Companies

To comply with Bulgarian AML regulations, companies must:

  • Reveal the identity of their ultimate beneficial owners (UBOs)
  • Appoint a contact person who is a Bulgarian citizen
  • Develop and maintain comprehensive AML programs that include:
    • Risk assessments
    • Policies
    • Procedures
  • Conduct thorough know-your-customer (KYC) checks on customers to verify their identities and assess their risk profiles
  • Implement customer due diligence (CDD) measures to monitor and mitigate the risk of money laundering
  • Maintain records of customer transactions and due diligence documentation for at least five years

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Bulgaria imposes severe penalties for non-compliance with AML regulations, including:

  • Fines
  • Imprisonment

Financial institutions may face fines for failing to implement adequate AML controls or for facilitating money laundering activities. Non-compliance can result in monthly fines until the required identification information is recorded in the relevant registry.

International Cooperation and FATF Membership

Bulgaria has demonstrated its commitment to international cooperation in the fight against money laundering and terrorist financing by:

  • Joining the Financial Action Task Force (FATF)
  • Participating in mutual evaluations to assess its AML regime’s effectiveness
  • Being currently not listed on the FATF Countries List as having strategic AML deficiencies, indicating alignment with international AML standards

Conclusion

Bulgaria’s robust AML legal framework and regulatory authorities demonstrate the country’s commitment to combating money laundering and terrorist financing. Financial institutions and designated non-financial businesses and professions (DNFBPs) operating in Bulgaria must adhere to stringent compliance requirements to prevent illicit financial activities.

To stay informed about the evolving AML landscape and continuously improve AML controls, businesses operating in Bulgaria must remain vigilant and ensure they remain compliant with regulations to contribute to the integrity of the global financial system.