Bulgaria Embraces the Euro: A New Era Begins in 2026

Bulgaria is set to adopt the euro as its official currency starting January 1, 2026, becoming the 21st member of the eurozone. This transition will see the lev coexist with the euro until February, after which the euro will be the sole currency. Retailers will have specific guidelines for accepting payments, and citizens can exchange leva for euros without fees until mid-2026. This significant change marks a new chapter for Bulgaria in its economic journey.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 1, 2026, 14:28 IST

Bulgaria Joins the Eurozone

Sofia (Bulgaria): Starting January 1, 2026, Bulgaria will officially adopt the euro, marking its entry as the 21st member of the eurozone. This milestone comes nearly two decades after the nation became part of the European Union.

Throughout January, the Bulgarian lev will coexist with the euro as a legal tender. However, from February 1, the euro will be the sole official currency. Prices will be displayed in both euros and leva until August 8, 2026.

During January, consumers can make cash transactions in stores using either leva or euros. Retailers must provide change in one currency only—either euros or, if unavailable, leva.

Merchants have the option to accept payments in both currencies for a single transaction, but they must clearly display this policy in their establishments.

After necessary technical updates, cash withdrawals from ATMs will be exclusively in euros.

Throughout 2026, citizens can exchange leva for euros at commercial banks without incurring any fees until mid-year. Post that, banks may implement conversion charges.

Additionally, in 2026, individuals can exchange leva at Bulgarian Post branches, while the Bulgarian National Bank will offer free exchanges from leva to euros.