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2026.01.01 07:08 GMT+8

Bulgaria adopts euro, becomes 21st eurozone member

Updated 2026.01.01 08:17 GMT+8
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The European Central Bank is illuminated with the Bulgarian flag during a test run in Frankfurt, Germany, December 30, 2025. /VCG

Bulgaria joined the eurozone and adopted the euro as its currency on New Year's Day, becoming the 21st eurozone member.

During the month of January, the Bulgarian lev (BGN) will continue to circulate. However, starting from February 1, the euro will become the sole legal tender in the country.

From January 1 to June 30, people can still exchange lev for euros free of charge at banks and post offices. After this period, a fee will be charged for the exchange.

On June 4, 2025, the European Commission announced that Bulgaria met the criteria to adopt the euro starting January 1, 2026.

Source(s): Xinhua News Agency
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