All About Bulgaria’s Euro Transition
From January 1, 2026, Bulgaria will join the Eurozone, meaning the euro will become the country’s official currency. This change affects everyone – citizens, businesses, and organizations – and requires preparation to ensure a smooth transition to the new system.
Key Dates and Periods
- Introduction of the Euro: Expected on January 1, 2026.
- Dual Price Display: During this period, prices will be shown in both lev and euro, lasting approximately 18 months.
- Dual Circulation of Currencies: From January 1 to January 31, 2026, payments can be made in either lev or euro. After this period, the lev will no longer be a legal tender.
How Currency Conversion Will Work
All amounts in lev will be converted to euro at the fixed rate of 1 euro = 1.95583 BGN.
- For regular purchases, amounts are rounded to two decimal places.
- For salaries, pensions, and social benefits, rounding is always done upward at the third decimal place.
- Incorrect application of the conversion rate may result in fines – up to 10,000 BGN for individuals and up to 14,000 BGN for companies in case of repeated violations.
Contracts and Bank Accounts
- All contracts stated in lev will automatically be converted to euro without the need for amendments.
- Bank and electronic accounts will be converted automatically and free of charge, with the option to merge lev and euro accounts within two months.
How to Exchange Cash
- Bulgarian National Bank (BNB): Unlimited and free exchange of lev to euro.
- Banks: Free exchange during the first six months; after one year, the service may be discontinued.
- Bulgarian Posts: Free exchange up to 1,000 BGN per day for six months in locations without bank branches.
Prices and Payments
- Prices cannot be raised without justification.
- During the dual price display period, amounts will be shown in both lev and euro on labels, receipts, and advertisements.
- When paying in cash, change will be returned in euro, or in lev if euro is not available.
- In a single transaction, no more than 50 lev coins can be used.