Bulgaria's Interior Ministry Issues Key Advice Ahead of Euro Introduction on January 1, 2026

Ministry of Interior Outlines Safeguards for Euro Transition

Bulgaria's Ministry of Interior on December 25, 2025, released crucial preventive advice for citizens in anticipation of the country's official adoption of the euro on January 1, 2026. The guidance aims to ensure a smooth transition and protect the public from potential financial abuses during the currency changeover.

Official Exchange Channels and Payment Methods Emphasized

The Ministry strongly recommends that citizens exchange Bulgarian Lev (BGN) for Euro (EUR) exclusively at banks or post offices. This service will be provided free of charge at these institutions until the end of June 2026. The Bulgarian National Bank (BNB) will offer indefinite and free exchange of BGN banknotes and coins for euros. To enhance security and convenience, the Ministry advises using bank card payments throughout January 2026, a period when both the national currency and the euro will be in simultaneous circulation.

For those holding BGN funds, a key recommendation is to deposit them into a bank account before January 1, 2026. This will facilitate an automatic and free conversion of funds at the official fixed exchange rate of EUR 1 for BGN 1.95583.

Vigilance Against Fraud and Public Order Measures

Citizens are urged to remain vigilant against potential fraud and to report any suspicious activities or abuses immediately by calling 112 or visiting the nearest police station. The Ministry has indicated that police officers, supported by the Gendarmerie, will be deployed to maintain public order around post offices nationwide during the initial transition phase.

Authorities have already taken steps to counter fraudulent schemes related to the euro adoption, with successful prevention efforts reported. An initial case of fraud, involving an online platform, was reported in August 2025, highlighting the importance of using only official channels for currency conversion. Furthermore, inspections have been ongoing since October 2025 to ensure traders comply with dual pricing regulations and to prevent unjustified price increases, with fines being issued for violations.

Transition Period and Dual Pricing

The transition will see both the Bulgarian Lev and the Euro accepted for payments during January 2026. Following this, the lev will cease to be legal tender after January 31, 2026. A mandatory dual pricing system, displaying prices in both BGN and EUR, was implemented on August 8, 2025, and will continue for 12 months after the euro's introduction to aid consumers in understanding the new currency values. The Bulgarian government launched a comprehensive communication campaign on September 2, 2025, to inform the public about the euro changeover.