The Personal Number for Foreigners (Licen Nomer na Chuzhdenets — LNCh) is the official identification number assigned to non-Bulgarian residents, including EU and EEA citizens. It functions as Bulgaria's equivalent of the national identity number and is required for employment contracts, tax registration, bank account opening, and accessing public services. This guide covers where and how to apply for the LNCh, required documents, processing times, and how it connects to the Bulgarian tax and social security systems.
Country-Specific Guides
Select your journey to get detailed bureaucratic requirements
← Back to Bulgaria Guide
🇧🇬
Personal Number for Foreigners (ЛНЧ / LNCh)
Bulgaria
Last verified: 2026-02-20
Fees, fines, and deadlines are approximate. Always verify with official sources.
Key Registrations & Procedures
Personal Number for Foreigners (ЛНЧ / LNCh)
Deadline: Applied for alongside or after receiving residence certificate
Processing Time: 1–3 weeks
Fees: Free
Appointment: No appointment needed.
Required Documents:
- Valid passport or ID card
- Residence certificate from Migration Directorate
- Address registration certificate
- Birth certificate (translated and apostilled if from abroad)
Where to Do It:
GRAO office at your local municipality. In Sofia: central GRAO office or district administration.
If You Don't Do It:
No direct fine, but the LNCh is your personal identifier in Bulgaria — without it you may not be able to register for healthcare (NHIF), pay taxes, open a bank account, or sign a work contract.
Regional Variations: Issued by GRAO offices nationwide. Same process everywhere.
Visit Official Website