Overview
- Cash machines in Sofia began dispensing euros as the lev remains usable for cash payments through January, with change given only in euros.
- From February 1 the euro becomes the sole legal tender, with prices displayed in both currencies until August 2026 and fee-free cash exchanges at banks and post offices through mid-2026.
- The fixed conversion rate of 1.95583 leva per euro applies, with bank accounts automatically converted, reflecting the lev’s long-standing peg that limits immediate economic impact.
- Bulgaria gains a seat on the European Central Bank’s Governing Council, giving it a voice in eurozone interest-rate and monetary policy decisions.
- Polling shows roughly half of Bulgarians oppose the switch and fear price hikes, early reports note queues and starter-pack shortages with banks warning of possible payment disruptions, and the changeover follows a government resignation with new elections expected.