The Ministry of Transport and Communications published the new Public Transport Act for public discussion. For the first time, it establishes a comprehensive legal framework for planning, management, contracting, financing, digitalization and control of public transport. Thus, Bulgaria is taking a step towards the European model of a unified transport system that provides convenient connections between all modes of transport.
“With this law, we are introducing for the first time a national transport scheme, a single electronic ticket, clear rules for the award and financing of public transport, and quality standards. The goal is simple – convenient, connected, accessible and predictable transport for all citizens,” Deputy Prime Minister Karadzhov stated.
The law introduces a National Transport Scheme that integrates and coordinates the schedules of different modes of transport to ensure minimal waiting time. The scheme will be regularly updated and will provide at least three transport connections per day for each settlement.
A National Access Point is also created – a unified electronic system that collects and provides up-to-date information on public transport. It will work according to European standards and will give citizens easy access to schedules, routes and connections. Each carrier and operator will be required to provide and update their data free of charge to ensure reliable travel planning.
An Intelligent Public Transport Management System is introduced, which includes the National Transport Model and the National Unified Travel Document System. Through this system, the state and municipalities will have real-time information on the movement of transport, will manage the scheme, will monitor the implementation of contracts and will fairly calculate subsidies and compensation. All institutions that conclude public transport contracts will have the obligation to submit data to the system within 7 days.
The National Transport Model will measure transport supply and forecast demand. It will develop short- and long-term scenarios for network development. The model uses modern simulation and analysis methods to ensure effective planning and accessibility.
The law also establishes a National Unified Travel Document System. This is an electronic ticket valid for different modes of transport within a single trip. Passengers will be able to purchase a ticket that combines train, bus, air or water transport in one transaction. The system will be open and compatible with all operators, using modern standards and interfaces for validation, verification and revenue distribution. Each ticket will be issued in electronic form and will facilitate door-to-door travel, eliminating the need for multiple separate tickets.
Along with the single ticket, the law also introduces a mechanism for fair distribution of revenue among carriers – a clearing system. It will process ticket sales data and automatically calculate the share of each operator – rail, bus, air or water. This ensures transparency, accuracy and trust among carriers, and the service is sustainably funded.
The draft law also provides for mechanisms for cooperation between municipalities, expansion of inter-municipal transport schemes, the possibility of on-demand transport in small settlements and transparent rules for access to bus stations and bus stops.
“Public transport is key for regional development, for access to education, healthcare and work. With this law, we are laying the foundation for a fairer and more sustainable transport system, which aims to provide transport for every settlement,” Karadzhov emphasized.
The draft has been published on the Public Consultations Portal - https://strategy.bg/bg/public-consultations/11932 All citizens, municipalities, branch organizations and stakeholders can send opinions and proposals by 17 December, 2025.