Summary
Bulgaria has started using the euro as its official currency, becoming the 21st country in the eurozone. The change occurred on January 1, 2026, as Bulgaria replaced its previous currency, the lev. Opinions in the country are mixed, with some viewing the change positively and others concerned about potential price increases.
Key Facts
- Bulgaria officially adopted the euro on January 1, 2026.
- The lev, Bulgaria’s national currency since the late 1800s, was replaced.
- This move makes Bulgaria the 21st country in the eurozone.
- The transition took place nearly two decades after Bulgaria joined the EU.
- There are mixed feelings in Bulgaria, with some people fearing inflation.
- Previous Bulgarian governments supported euro adoption to strengthen the economy and reduce Russian influence.
- President Rumen Radev called the euro adoption Bulgaria’s “final step” into the EU.
- Bulgaria faces political instability, having had multiple elections in recent years.
