Vehicle Insurance in Bulgaria

Vehicle insurance in Bulgaria has two main forms:

1. Compulsory third-party motor liability insurance (Bulgarian: “Гражданска отговорност”);
2. Voluntary comprehensive cover, commonly called Casco.

Compulsory Third-Party Liability Insurance

Compulsory third-party liability insurance covers damage or injury caused to other people through the insured vehicle. It does not normally cover damage to your own car.

Cover can include property damage, bodily injury and death, subject to statutory limits and policy terms. Legal limits change, so check the current figures in the policy and with the Bulgarian Financial Supervision Commission.

• Property-damage cover up to the current statutory limit;
• Bodily-injury cover up to the current statutory limit;
• Separate limits may apply when more than one person is injured.

A Bulgarian liability policy generally provides the cross-border cover required within the EU, but documentation requirements depend on the destination. Ask the insurer whether a Green Card or other proof is needed. Personal-accident cover for occupants can be added separately.

If you own or plan to buy property in a Bulgarian resort, and intend to keep a car there, arrange compulsory liability cover before driving or registering the vehicle. Penalties and payment schedules can change; confirm the current rules with the insurer or registration authority.

Voluntary Comprehensive Insurance (Casco)

Casco can cover damage to your own vehicle, theft and other specified risks. Eligibility for Bulgarian- or foreign-registered vehicles, optional equipment and territorial cover depends on the insurer.

Depending on the policy, Casco may cover:

• Fire;
• Theft, subject to territorial and security exclusions;
• Collision and accidental damage.

Common exclusions can include:

1. Driving without a valid licence or by an unauthorised driver;
2. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs;
3. Damage caused by poor maintenance or worn tyres;
4. Intentional damage or fraud;
5. Missing police or accident documentation where the policy requires it;
6. False or inflated repair documents;
7. Late notification of a claim.

Typical Casco Requirements

• A roadworthy vehicle;
• A purchase invoice for a new vehicle;
• Vehicle registration documents;
• Any security equipment required by the insurer.

Typical Claim Documents

• The full insurance policy and schedules;
• Vehicle registration documents;
• The driver's licence and proof of authorisation to drive;
• Police or accident reports where required.

Several insurers offer compulsory and comprehensive motor cover in Bulgaria. Compare price, excess, exclusions, repair-network rules, roadside assistance and claim handling rather than choosing on premium alone.