Bulgaria Joins Euro Zone and Adopts Currency
On 1 January 2026, Bulgaria will adopt the euro as its national currency, marking a significant milestone for the country, for the evolution of the euro, and for the European Union as a whole. This achievement follows years of intensive preparation and sustained efforts by Bulgaria to fulfill all the required criteria.
The introduction of the euro will bring tangible benefits to Bulgarian citizens and businesses. It will make traveling and living abroad easier, enhance market transparency and competitiveness, and facilitate trade. Euro banknotes and coins will also serve as a visible symbol of the freedom, convenience, and opportunities that EU membership offers to its citizens.
The European Commission has fully supported Bulgaria throughout the process of joining the euro area. With Bulgaria’s accession, 21 EU Member States and more than 357 million EU citizens will share the EU’s common currency.
Photo courtesy of European Commission.