Bulgaria’s accession to the Eurozone opens up new opportunities for citizens and businesses, and Moldova looks with admiration and hope at this success, as stated in a message sent by President Maia Sandu to the Sofia authorities. Bulgaria officially adopted the euro currency starting from January 1, 2026, thus becoming the 21st member state of the eurozone, 19 years after joining the European Union.
“Congratulations to Bulgaria for joining the eurozone today — an important step that opens up new opportunities for citizens and businesses. Moldova looks with admiration and hope at this success, as we follow our own European path. Честито, България!”
Thus, until the end of January, the lev will remain legal tender alongside the euro, and as of February 1, the euro will become the sole official currency. Prices will be displayed in both currencies until August 8, 2026.
During January, citizens will be able to make cash payments both in lev and in euro, and merchants will be obliged to give change exclusively in one currency — euro or, in case of temporary shortage, lev. The decision to accept mixed payments within the same transaction must be clearly displayed.
After the completion of technical adjustments, cash withdrawals from ATMs will be available exclusively in euro. At the same time, citizens will be able to exchange lev to euro free of charge at commercial banks and Bulgarian Post offices until mid-2026.