Michael Ivanov
Business Development Associate
Michael is assisting NBLO on a wide range of tasks, including technical support, administration, marketing, research and business development. His flexible thinking and proactive approach allow other members of the team to perform their tasks at top capacity, as well as provide them with additional support when needed. Some of his responsibilities include assisting with day to day tasks at the office, coordinating document circulation and translations, assisting with workflow optimization, attending and organising events, promoting NBLO’s practices, introducing new clients to the firm and expanding the firm’s reach to the Japanese market.
Prior to joining NBLO, Michael spent one year living in Japan, gaining knowledge in various subjects such as Japanese law, economics, sociology and psychology at a private university with deep connections to Bulgaria. In addition, he has spent four years at Sofia University learning Japanese language, among other aspects of Japanese culture, further improving his critical and out of the box thinking. Currently, his interests include startups, crypto, venture capital investments, technology transfers and immigration.
Qualifications: Japanese Studies (Sofia University) (2024) Psychology/Criminal Investigation Psychology (Fukuyama University) (2023)
Languages Spoken: Bulgarian, English and Japanese
Office Location: Sofia
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Expat Assistance
Relocating to Bulgaria involves a complex set of legal, regulatory, tax, and practical considerations that extend well beyond immigration formalities. Expats and internationally mobile professionals often face overlapping issues relating to residence status, employment, taxation, healthcare, education, and property matters, both before and after arrival. We provide comprehensive legal assistance to expatriates, foreign professionals, and […]
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Citizenship and Immigration
Bulgarian Citizenship and Immigration Strategic advice on Bulgarian and EU residence, citizenship and mobility We advise individuals and families planning for their future, their mobility and their legacy. Immigration and citizenship matters are often complex, sensitive and deeply personal. Our role is to guide clients through every stage of the process with clarity, discretion and […]
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Blockchain and Cryptocurrency
Why Bulgaria Bulgaria has established itself as a practical and efficient base for crypto and blockchain businesses seeking access to the European Union market. Companies incorporated in Bulgaria benefit from EU market access while operating in a jurisdiction known for competitive costs and a technology-friendly environment. Regulatory oversight in Bulgaria is structured and transparent. Authorities […]
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Venture Capital
Overview Bulgaria has become an increasingly attractive jurisdiction for venture capital and technology growth investors. New Balkans Law Office (NBLO) has been actively involved in the development of the venture capital ecosystem in Bulgaria from its early stages. NBLO is an early member of the Bulgarian Venture Capital Association (BVCA). Through the BVCA, we regularly […]
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How to Open a Bank Account in Bulgaria as a Foreign Business
In this article, we provide an overview of the criterion that overseas incorporated businesses must generally fulfil in order to open a bank account in Bulgaria. We have restricted our analysis to organisations that are structured as companies or corporations in their home jurisdiction. Although Bulgarian law tends to recognise the legal forms of other […]
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Guide to Establishing Business Operations in Japan for European Startups
This guide outlines essential information for establishing a company in Japan or offering tech products to the Japanese market. Due to the stable economy and innovation Japan’s business environment offers significant opportunities. Type of companies Japan’s Companies Act defines four main types of corporate structures, each with distinct characteristics suited to different business needs. Kabushiki […]
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Bridging Europe and Japan: Tech & VC Collaboration
Hosted by New Balkans Law Office (NBLO) on February 12, 2025, the hybrid webinar “Cross-border Tech and Venture Capital (VC) between Europe and Japan” brought together thought leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs to explore opportunities in cross-border collaboration within the technology and innovation sectors. With Japanese partners joining us, the event saw participation both in […]


