Bulgaria has officially abandoned its national currency, the lev, and adopted the euro starting January 1, 2026. With this move, Bulgaria becomes the 21st member of the Eurozone, pushing the total number of people using the single currency across Europe beyond 350 million. The milestone was celebrated enthusiastically in the capital city of Sofia, marking the region’s latest step toward economic integration after Croatia joined three years earlier.

For Bulgarian citizens, the transition brings an immediate change in nominal currency values. For instance, savings of 10,000 leva are now converted into approximately 5,100 euros.

Beyond easing transactions for tourists and businesses, eurozone membership grants Bulgaria a stronger position in Europe’s monetary policy framework. The country now holds a seat and voting rights on the Governing Council of the European Central Bank (ECB), which sets interest rates for the euro area.

Antonia Tsvetkova, a jewelry entrepreneur in Sofia, expressed optimism about the euro, noting that frequent travelers will benefit from no longer needing to exchange currencies.

Despite strong support from the business community, the currency transition takes place amid ongoing political instability. Bulgaria’s government resigned last month following mass protests over proposed tax increases.

Opinion polls suggest the public remains divided, with some citizens concerned that adopting the euro could lead to higher prices and worsen the cost-of-living crisis.

The entry of the Balkan nation, home to 6.7 million people, into the Eurozone represents the culmination of a long journey that began when Bulgaria joined the European Union in 2007. Membership is expected to deepen economic integration with Europe’s single market and attract greater foreign direct investment.