Changeover from the Bulgarian Lev to the Euro
The replacement of Bulgaria’s national currency with the euro is an important step in our European integration.
On this page, you will learn when and how the conversion from lev to euro will take place, what the official exchange rate is, and what you should know about cash exchange, the dual display period, and how the changeover will affect your accounts, contracts, and payments.
When Will the Changeover from Lev to Euro Take Place
The introduction of the euro in Bulgaria will begin on 1 January 2026. From this date onward, Bulgaria will transition from Bulgarian lev to the euro.
As of this date, the new currency—the euro—will become the only legal tender, and the Bulgarian lev will be withdrawn from circulation.
All conversions will be carried out automatically and simultaneously, with no additional actions required from citizens or businesses.
What Is the Official Exchange Rate for the Conversion
The currency replacement and all necessary conversions will be performed at a predefined and fixed exchange rate:
1 euro = 1.95583 leva
This fixed exchange rate will be used for all operations, including bank transactions, cash exchanges, payments, and recalculation of contracts.
Examples:
- 100 leva = 51.13 euro
- 1,955.83 leva = 1,000 euro
To make the process easier, a currency calculator will be provided with a user-friendly interface and real-time currency checks.
How Will Lev Be Converted into Euro
All conversions will be automatic, centralized, and free of charge.
On 1 January 2026, the following will be converted into euro:
- All bank accounts in lev (current, savings, deposits)
- Loans, liabilities, leasing contracts
- Ongoing payments and other financial instruments
You do not need to take any action—bank payments and account balances will be automatically recalculated at the official BGN/EUR exchange rate.
Transition Period for the Introduction of the Euro
Before the full changeover, there will be a transition period with dual price display in both lev and euro.
The period will run from 8 August 2025 until 31 December 2026, and includes mandatory display of prices in both currencies.
You will see dual pricing on:
- Store labels
- Receipts and invoices
- Online price lists and offers
The purpose is to ensure transparency and help consumers easily compare values and use currency calculators.
When Will the Lev Cease to Be Legal Tender
The lev will remain legal tender until the end of 2025, and then only for a short parallel period.
Important dates:
- Until 31 December 2025 – the lev is the only currency in circulation
- 1–31 January 2026 – lev and euro circulate in parallel as cash
- After 31 January 2026 – the euro becomes the only legal tender
The aim is to ensure a smooth transition from lev to euro.
How Can Cash Lev Be Exchanged
After the changeover, lev cash can be exchanged free of charge.
Where you can exchange leva for euro:
- In commercial banks – free for a specified period
- At the Bulgarian National Bank (BNB) – free of charge and without time limit
- In exchange offices – at the official rate
Always check the BNB exchange rates, watch for hidden markups, and avoid unreliable online currency exchange services.
What Is the Rule for Conversion and Rounding
Currency conversion will follow mathematical rounding.
The approved rule is:
- Round to the second decimal place
- Values ≥ 0.005 are rounded up
- Values < 0.005 are rounded down
Example:
100 leva ÷ 1.95583 = 51.129 → 51.13 euro
These rules apply to currency conversion, market exchange rates, store payments, and bank transfers.
Additional Information on Currency Operations
If you use exchange platforms, online banking, or send money abroad, there are a few additional points to consider:
- EUR/BGN rates may vary by provider
- Some service providers apply hidden markups
- Always monitor exchange rate updates and conversion schedules
- Leading currencies (EUR, USD, GBP) will be supported
- For international transfers, use trusted channels and monitor bank rate alerts
It is important to rely on trustworthy information and avoid myths about the euro. The official sources are the Ministry of Finance and the Bulgarian National Bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fixed exchange rate of the euro to the lev?
1 euro = 1.95583 leva.
Will there be fees for exchanging lev to euro?
No. Exchange will be free of charge at banks for a set period and at the BNB without time limit.
What does conversion from lev to euro mean?
Automatic recalculation of amounts from lev to euro at the official exchange rate.
What is the rounding rule?
To the second decimal place: amounts above 0.005 round up, below 0.005 round down.
What are the deadlines for exchanging lev to euro?
The lev and euro will circulate together until 31 January 2026. After that, lev cash can be exchanged indefinitely at the BNB.