Bulgaria will introduce the euro on January 1, 2026 the date when the European currency will officially replace the Bulgarian lev.
The Bulgarian National Bank on Sunday has reminded traders of the key steps they must take to ensure a smooth switch to the new currency, Novinite reported.
How traders can obtain euro cash in advance
Before the the date the euro is officially adopted, traders will be able to receive euro banknotes and coins through their servicing banks. This process will take place under individual agreements between the businesses and the financial institutions. The purpose of acquiring an advance supply is to ensure traders have enough euro cash when the euro becomes the Balkan country’s official currency.
The central bank says that although companies can receive euro banknotes and coins in advance, they are not allowed to use them for transactions before January 1, 2026.
Their sole purpose is to prepare for the transition and guarantee smooth cash operations once the euro becomes legal tender. Businesses are advised to contact their banks early to clarify the specific procedures and requirements for pre-supplying euros.
What changes on January 1, 2026
A one-month period when both the euro and leva are both valid currencies begins on January 1, 2026, when both currencies are accepted for cash payments.
Rules for handling BGN coins
During the the transition period, merchants may legally refuse to accept more than 50 BGN coins, including small denominations, in a single transaction. This rule is intended to make cash payments more efficient and reduce the logistical burden of handling large quantities of coins.
What traders must remember
Businesses can receive euro banknotes and coins before January 1, 2026, but they must not use them for payments until that date. By the beginning of 2026, all merchants should be fully prepared to operate in euros.
Throughout January 2026, both currencies will be in circulation, but all change should primarily be given in euros.
The central bank says careful preparation now will ensure a seamless transition when Bulgaria officially joins the euro area.
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