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

Published on December 25, 2025

Starting January 2026, Bulgaria will officially adopt the euro as its currency, marking a significant change for travelers. For British tourists planning to visit the country, including the capital Sofia, the transition from the Bulgarian lev to the euro will have implications for both money exchange and travel logistics. This change is part of a broader effort to align Bulgaria with other European Union countries that use the euro.

As Bulgaria joins the eurozone, UK travelers should be aware of new currency regulations, potential disruptions during the transition, and the steps they need to take to ensure smooth travel. The UK Foreign Office has issued a detailed update for those planning to visit, explaining the transition process, the temporary acceptance of the lev, and important travel advice.

What Does the Currency Change Mean for UK Travelers?

The currency changeover in Bulgaria is scheduled to occur gradually. Starting from January 1, 2026, the euro will be the official currency of Bulgaria, replacing the Bulgarian lev. However, the lev will still be accepted for a short period, until January 31, 2026. Travelers who still have Bulgarian lev after this date will be able to exchange it for euros without incurring any additional fees at Bulgarian banks until June 30, 2026.

The transition will not be immediate, and travelers may experience some temporary disruptions. There is the potential for issues with card payments and ATM withdrawals during the period from December 31, 2025, to January 1, 2026, as the currency change takes effect. While cash payments in lev will continue to be accepted during this time, it’s important for tourists to anticipate potential delays or technical difficulties with electronic transactions.

Temporary Disruptions and Travel Advice for Tourists

While the official currency change will occur in January, UK travelers should be aware of the temporary disruptions that may affect daily travel. The UK Foreign Office has highlighted the possibility of delays in card payments and ATM withdrawals during the switch, so it’s recommended to carry enough cash in euros or lev to cover immediate expenses. Banks and currency exchange bureaux will offer services to help tourists navigate the transition smoothly.

UK travelers are advised to exchange pounds for euros before traveling to Bulgaria, as this will provide greater convenience and avoid the potential delays of exchanging currency on arrival. Euros are widely accepted in major tourist destinations, including hotels and restaurants, but it is still advisable to carry some lev for small purchases or local services that may not yet have fully transitioned to euro usage.

Rules for Currency and Goods in Bulgaria

Travelers should also be aware of Bulgaria’s rules regarding currency and goods. If carrying cash or travelers cheques worth €10,000 or more, UK travelers must declare it when entering or leaving the country. Failure to declare large sums of money could lead to the seizure of the funds. Tourists should always use reliable sources, such as banks or currency exchange offices, to exchange money.

Additionally, there are strict regulations about the import of certain goods, including meat, milk, and products containing them. While there are exceptions for specific medical needs (such as baby food), it’s important for travelers to ensure they comply with Bulgaria’s import rules to avoid any issues with customs.

Travel Documents and Passport Validity Requirements

As Bulgaria is part of the Schengen Area, UK travelers will need to ensure their passports meet Schengen entry requirements. The UK Foreign Office advises that a passport must have:

• A date of issue that is less than 10 years old from the date of arrival. Travelers who renewed their passports before October 1, 2018, may find that their passport’s issue date exceeds 10 years, potentially complicating entry.
• An expiry date that is at least three months beyond the planned departure date from the Schengen Area.

If your passport does not meet these requirements, it could cause delays or issues when entering Bulgaria or other Schengen countries. Therefore, it’s essential to check passport validity well before traveling.

Key Points for UK Travelers to Remember:

• Currency Change: Bulgaria will switch from the Bulgarian lev to the euro starting January 1, 2026. The lev will still be accepted until January 31, 2026.
• Currency Exchange: Travelers can exchange Bulgarian lev for euros at no charge at Bulgarian banks until June 30, 2026.
• Disruptions: Temporary disruptions to card payments and ATM withdrawals may occur during the currency changeover, so it’s advised to carry cash in euros or lev for immediate needs.
• Large Sums of Money: Declare any cash or travelers cheques over €10,000 when entering or leaving Bulgaria.
• Goods Regulations: Be mindful of Bulgaria’s strict rules on importing meat, milk, and related products. Only specific exceptions apply.

Travel Tips for Tourists Visiting Bulgaria in 2026:

1. Exchange Currency Before You Travel: To avoid delays during the transition, consider exchanging pounds for euros ahead of your trip to Bulgaria.
2. Carry Both Lev and Euros: While the euro will be the official currency in 2026, carry a small amount of Bulgarian lev during the transition period for small purchases and services.
3. Plan for Disruptions: If you’re planning to withdraw cash or use a credit card, be prepared for potential delays in ATM services or payment processing, especially around New Year’s Eve.
4. Check Your Passport’s Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from Bulgaria, especially if you plan to travel to other Schengen countries.
5. Be Aware of Customs Regulations: Familiarize yourself with Bulgaria’s restrictions on bringing goods like meat and milk into the country. Declare large sums of money as required.

Conclusion: Preparing for Bulgaria’s Currency Transition in 2026

Bulgaria’s shift to the euro in January 2026 marks a significant milestone for the country and its economy. For UK travelers, understanding the transition process and following the necessary travel guidelines will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. By planning ahead, checking passport validity, and being mindful of the currency changeover, travelers can enjoy their time in Bulgaria without unexpected issues.

Whether you’re visiting the capital Sofia or exploring Bulgaria’s scenic landscapes, taking these simple steps will help you navigate the currency change and enjoy a successful trip to this beautiful country.

Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated