Bulgaria and the Euro

Bulgaria officially becomes the 21st member of the Eurozone, marking the culmination of an extensive accession process involving economic reforms, preparations, and meeting EU convergence criteria. The transition will take effect on 1 January 2026, with Bulgarian levs exchanged into euros at the fixed rate of 1.95583 BGN per 1 EUR. A National Plan was developed to ensure a smooth currency transition, outlining legal, institutional, and logistical steps, including dual price display and public education campaigns. The Bulgarian National Bank is set to begin minting euro coins within the week, while all bank accounts will be automatically converted to euros on launch day in 2026, free of charge. Officials assure that prices will remain stable, enforced by consumer protection laws and watchdog agencies. Authorities are developing additional safety measures for vulnerable groups, including rural pensioners concerned about currency exchange. Public opinion remains divided - 50% of citizens express skepticism about the euro amid fears of price hikes, fuelled by disinformation campaigns. The political debate regarding the euro in Bulgaria has intensified, with opposition parties mounting unsuccessful no-confidence motions against the government. The German Bundestag meanwhile welcomed Bulgaria’s Eurozone entry, and KAS-initiatives such as "Europe in My City" continue to inform and engage Bulgarian citizens around the topic of the euro adoption.

The full-length country report is only available in German.