Source: Canva
Hello everyone!
We have exciting news for our big European family!
As of January 1, 2026, Bulgaria will become the 21st member of the eurozone and will adopt the euro (EUR) as its official currency, replacing the national currency, the Bulgarian lev (BGN).
This historic decision follows the publication of the Convergence Report by the European Commission (EC) and the European Central Bank (ECB), which confirmed that Bulgaria is ready to join the eurozone. The decision is expected to be officially approved by the Council of the EU.
This news is especially relevant for all of you who have started or are planning to take part in a mobility programme in Bulgaria. The transition will take effect at the beginning of 2026, so be prepared!
What does this mean in practice?
- From 2026 onward, all prices, contracts, and payments in Bulgaria will be in euro.
- There will be a temporary period of dual price display (in BGN and EUR) to help with the transition.
- The conversion from BGN to EUR will be automatic and free of charge within specific deadlines and institutions.
- The exchange rate is already fixed and will be calculated as follows:
1 EUR = 1.95583 BGN
If you're planning to join a mobility programme or continue your stay in Bulgaria after January 2026, please keep in mind that all transactions will be carried out in euro.
What does this mean for you as students and volunteers?
- You will no longer need to exchange euros into leva.
- You can use your euro bank card without additional currency conversion fees.
- Budgeting, grants, and living expenses will become easier to manage, especially if you're coming from another eurozone country.
This marks a new chapter in Bulgaria’s European integration and brings the country even closer to the economic and political core of the EU. Congratulations to all Bulgarian people! Congratulations Europe!
Reneta, OLS Community Manager – Bulgarian