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ENTER THE EUROZONE

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Currency change in Bulgaria: the euro has replaced the official lev currency

Although it entered the European Union (EU) 19 years ago, Bulgaria has hitherto been outside the eurozone. Bulgaria has been the 21st country to enter the eurozone since 1 January 2026.

SOFIA (Bulgaria), 29/12/2025.- A man looks at a euro adoption poster in Sofia, Bulgaria, 29 December 2025. Bulgaria is set to become the 21st member of the eurozone on 01 January 2026, transitioning from the national lev to the euro amid public concerns that the move could trigger immediate price hikes and a higher cost of living. EFE/EPA/BORISLAV TROSHEV
A man watches a sign about Bulgaria's entry into the eurozone. Stock Photo: EFE

Bulgaria has entered the euro zone and today the euro is officially the official currency of that country instead of the leva currency, which entered the European Union (EU) 19 years ago but has so far been outside the euro zone. 

The change in the currency, as expected, has led to positions for and against in what is the poorest country in the European Union, where citizens fear that the change in the currency will lead to price increases.  

The transition from Leva to the euro will affect 6.3 million citizens. 

The country is in the midst of a political crisis following the resignation of the government three weeks ago. The year begins without a budget and with the prospect of elections at the end of March.

During the month of January the Bulgarians will be able to make payments with leva or euro coins. 

Furthermore, until 30 June, Bulgarian banks will exchange levas for euros without fees (one euro: 1,95583 leva). 

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