Bulgaria Currency Change to Euro in 2026: What UK Travelers Need to Know

Published on December 24, 2025

Bulgaria, a top destination for European holidaymakers, is set to undergo a major change starting January 1, 2026. This shift involves the country’s currency, with the Bulgarian lev being replaced by the euro. While this change is expected to benefit travelers by aligning Bulgaria more closely with the rest of the EU, there are important things to keep in mind as you plan your trip to this affordable and scenic holiday hotspot.

Bulgaria’s Currency Change: Transition from Bulgarian Lev to Euro

Bulgaria has long been known for its beautiful landscapes, charming cities, and affordable prices, making it an increasingly popular destination for tourists from around Europe and beyond. From January 1, 2026, Bulgaria will officially adopt the euro as its currency. Although the lev will still be accepted until January 31, 2026, it will gradually be phased out, and by June 30, 2026, it will no longer be in circulation.

This change is part of Bulgaria’s broader economic integration with the European Union, a shift that is expected to simplify transactions for tourists and businesses alike. The transition will be seamless for many visitors as Bulgaria’s major hotels, banks, and shops will already be familiar with dealing in euros, but tourists should be aware of temporary disruptions, especially around the changeover period.

Financial Transition and Possible Disruptions

Travelers heading to Bulgaria over the Christmas and New Year period should be prepared for potential disruptions to card payments and ATM withdrawals. From December 31, 2025, to January 1, 2026, there may be short-term technical issues as the banking and payment systems switch over to the new currency. The Foreign Office has advised that cash payments will remain unaffected, but it’s wise to carry cash with you during this period.

After January 2026, Bulgaria will still accept the lev, and travelers can exchange it for euros at banks across the country, free of charge, until June 30, 2026. This flexibility will help smooth the transition for tourists, but it’s important to only use reliable exchange services, such as banks and certified currency exchange offices, to avoid unfavorable rates or scams.

Cash and Travelers’ Cheques Declaration

If you are planning to bring large sums of cash or traveler’s cheques into Bulgaria, the Foreign Office advises that you declare any amount over 10,000 euros. Failure to declare could result in your money being seized upon departure, so it’s important to follow this regulation when entering or leaving Bulgaria.

Visa and Passport Information for UK Travelers

As part of the Schengen area, Bulgaria follows standard entry requirements for EU countries. For UK travelers, this means ensuring that their passport is less than 10 years old and valid for at least three months beyond their planned departure date from the Schengen area. Travelers should also make sure that their passport meets these requirements before their trip to avoid any complications upon arrival.

If you are traveling from Bulgaria to other Schengen area countries such as Greece or Romania, it is essential to carry your passport with you as border checks may still be carried out when crossing land or river borders. While there are no routine checks for air or sea travel within the Schengen area, it’s still advisable to keep your passport handy in case it’s requested.

What This Means for Business and Leisure Travelers

For business travelers, the currency change is expected to streamline transactions with Bulgarian partners, as payments and pricing will now be in euros. However, the transition period around January 2026 could lead to short-term disruptions, especially for transactions made via cards or ATMs. It’s essential for businesses to plan accordingly and ensure they have access to alternative payment methods during the changeover.

For leisure travelers, the new currency will make travel to Bulgaria even more convenient, as it aligns the country with other European destinations that use the euro. However, during the initial switch, tourists should be mindful of the potential for disruptions and plan for extra time when handling financial transactions.

Quick Tips for Travelers to Bulgaria

1. Plan for the Currency Change: The Bulgarian lev will be accepted until January 31, 2026. After that, it can be exchanged for euros at banks, free of charge, until June 30, 2026.
2. Bring Cash: During the transition period (Dec 31, 2025 – Jan 1, 2026), consider bringing cash with you in case of any disruptions to card payments or ATM services.
3. Declare Large Sums of Money: If you plan to bring 10,000 euros or more in cash or traveler’s cheques, make sure to declare it when entering Bulgaria.
4. Check Passport Validity: Ensure your passport meets Schengen requirements, with a validity of at least three months after your departure date. Renew it if necessary.
5. Expect Possible Delays: As Bulgaria adopts the euro, there may be slight disruptions to payment systems and financial services, so allow extra time for transactions or exchange.
6. Enjoy Seamless Travel with the Euro: After the transition, you’ll be able to use the same currency as many other European countries, making travel to and from Bulgaria much more convenient.

Conclusion: A Smooth Transition to the Euro

The changeover to the euro in Bulgaria marks an exciting development for both business and leisure travelers. While there may be some initial disruptions, the long-term benefits of the currency change are clear. For UK travelers, this means a smoother experience when navigating the country’s financial systems and an even more seamless integration with the rest of Europe. By planning ahead, being aware of the temporary changes, and ensuring your travel documents are in order, you can enjoy a hassle-free visit to Bulgaria, whether for business or pleasure.

Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated