Bulgaria adopts the euro, nearly 20 years after joining the EU
<p>On January 1, 2026, Bulgaria took a significant step in its European integration by officially adopting the euro as its national currency, nearly 20 years after it became a member of the European Union in 2007. This historic milestone makes Bulgaria the 21st member of the eurozone, replacing the Bulgarian lev and further deepening its economic ties with the EU.</p><p>The transition to the euro has been years in the making, with Bulgaria fulfilling strict economic and legislative criteria required under EU rules. These include stable inflation rates, controlled budget deficits, sound public finances, and exchange rate stability — benchmarks known collectively as the Maastricht convergence criteria. EU institutions, including the European Commission and European Central Bank, confirmed Bulgaria met these conditions in 2025, paving the way for euro adoption. </p><p>The changeover was met with both optimism and concern among Bulgarians. Many citizens and businesses celebrated the currency switch, hoping it will make travel, trade, and investment easier by eliminating currency exchange costs and strengthening economic stability. However, significant portions of the population remain apprehensive about potential price increases and the loss of monetary sovereignty. Critics also point to political instability and recent protests as challenges during this major shift. </p><p>During a transitional period in January 2026, both the lev and the euro circulated concurrently, with the euro gradually becoming the sole legal tender. Dual pricing in shops will continue until later in the year to help consumers adjust. As Bulgaria joins the euro family, this move symbolizes a major economic and political milestone on the country’s long path toward full European integration.</p>