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Bulgaria is set to ditch its national currency, the lev, for the euro on Jan. 1, 2026, a move that has stirred both excitement and anxiety across the country. While businesses welcome the change, many citizens fear rising prices and political instability in a nation still grappling with recent government resignations and mass protests over tax measures.
Bulgaria will become the 21st member of the eurozone and the first new entrant since Croatia joined in 2023, putting over 350 million Europeans on the euro. Beyond replacing coins and bills, the country will gain a seat on the European Central Bank’s Governing Council, giving it a voice in setting monetary policy for the entire eurozone.
Despite governments pushing for euro adoption since Bulgaria joined the EU in 2007, public opinion remains split. Some citizens worry that switching currencies could fuel inflation, while others point to political uncertainty and lingering skepticism toward deeper European integration, particularly given Bulgaria’s historical ties to Russia.
Yet businesses and parts of the population see the euro as a boost. In Sofia, prices are already displayed in both lev and euro, and public campaigns aim to prepare citizens for the transition.
The historic move marks a major milestone for Bulgaria, but also a moment of tension, as citizens weigh potential economic gains against fears of higher costs and political volatility.
