Bulgaria Adopts Euro, Becomes 21st Member of Eurozone

Sofia, The Gulf Observer: Bulgaria officially adopted the euro on January 1, 2026, becoming the 21st member of the eurozone, media reported. The milestone comes exactly 19 years after the country joined the European Union.

Under the transition arrangements, Bulgaria’s national currency, the lev, will remain legal tender alongside the euro until the end of January 2026. From February 1, the euro will become the country’s sole official currency. To facilitate the changeover, prices will continue to be displayed in both euros and leva until August 8, 2026.

Throughout January, consumers will be able to make cash payments in retail outlets using either leva or euros. Retailers, however, will be required to provide change entirely in one currency—preferably euros, or in leva only in cases of temporary unavailability. Retailers may choose whether to accept mixed-currency payments within a single transaction, but must clearly display their policy in a visible location within their premises.

Following the completion of technical adjustments, scheduled to continue until 1:00 a.m., cash withdrawals from automated teller machines (ATMs) will be available exclusively in euros.

During 2026, citizens will be able to exchange leva for euros at commercial banks nationwide without fees or commissions until mid-year, after which banks may introduce conversion charges. In addition, Bulgarian Posts will offer currency exchange services throughout the year, while the Bulgarian National Bank will continue to exchange leva for euros free of charge.

The adoption of the euro marks a significant step in Bulgaria’s economic integration with the European Union and is expected to enhance financial stability, facilitate trade, and strengthen investor confidence.