Bulgaria Validates First Eurozone Entry Stamp, Marking Full Euro Integration

A Symbolic Milestone for Eurozone Integration

On January 14, 2026, Bulgaria officially validated its first postage stamp for the year, titled 'Bulgaria in the Eurozone.' The ceremony, held at the Ministry of Transport and Communications, marked a significant symbolic step following the country's full integration into the euro area on January 1, 2026. This event solidifies Bulgaria's position as the 21st member state to adopt the single European currency.

The stamp, bearing a nominal value of 1 euro, was designed by Assoc. Prof. Nenko Atanasov. It was formally validated by Deputy Prime Minister and former Minister of Transport and Communications Grozdan Karadjov, alongside former Finance Minister Temenuzhka Petkova. Officials emphasized the historical significance of the stamp, noting its representation of a new economic chapter for Bulgaria and its complete integration into the European Union.

Bulgaria's Path to the Euro

Bulgaria's journey to the eurozone culminated on January 1, 2026, when the euro officially became its currency, replacing the Bulgarian lev. This milestone followed years of efforts to meet the necessary convergence criteria. The conversion rate between the two currencies was set at 1.95583 lev per 1 euro. The country had been a member of the European Exchange Rate Mechanism (ERM II) since July 10, 2020, maintaining a stable peg to the euro.

The European Parliament endorsed Bulgaria's entry on July 8, 2025, with the Council of the European Union adopting the final legislative acts required for admission on the same day. A dual-use period, during which both the lev and the euro will be in circulation, is expected to last until the end of January 2026 to facilitate a smooth transition for citizens and businesses.

Economic Implications and Future Outlook

The adoption of the euro is anticipated to bring several economic benefits to Bulgaria. These include:

• Greater economic and financial stability
• Smoother transactions and reduced transaction costs
• Increased investment and economic growth
• Stronger integration within the European market

European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde welcomed Bulgaria, highlighting the euro as a 'powerful symbol of what Europe can achieve when we work together.' Bulgarian President Rumen Radev described the introduction of the euro as 'the final milestone in Bulgaria's integration into the European Union.' The move is expected to enhance Bulgaria's creditworthiness and make it a more attractive destination for foreign direct investment.