Euro adoption in Bulgaria: no extension for Lev-Euro dual circulation period and special monitoring of the new rules

Bulgaria joined the Eurozone on 1 January 2026 and has launched strict price-monitoring and dual-pricing rules to prevent hidden price increases, with the tax authority cross-checking retail prices against VAT data and inspecting key consumer sectors. The lev remains usable only until 31 January 2026, after which the euro becomes the sole legal tender, while mandatory dual price display in lev and euro continues until 8 August 2026 at the fixed rate of €1 = BGN 1.95583.

On January 1, 2026, Bulgaria officially became the 21st member of the Eurozone. While the transition marks a major economic leap, the Bulgarian government has launched a massive oversight operation to ensure that the move to the Euro does not lead to "hidden" price hikes for consumers.

The National Revenue Agency (NRA) is now coordinating with, using advanced data analytics to detect any unfair price manipulation during the currency changeover. The NRA has warned businesses that they are cross-checking retail price increases against VAT declarations. If a business raises prices but does not show a corresponding increase in their VAT turnover, they will be flagged for an immediate tax inspection.

Inspectors are already on the ground, having reviewed 150 retail outlets in 30 cities so far. The focus is currently on 14 essential food categories. The hospitality sector includes restaurants, cafes, and fast-food vendors and service providers like hair salons.

To keep consumers informed, Bulgarian law requires a "Dual Pricing" period where all items must display prices in both Leva and Euro.

Authorities have already flagged several retailers for misleading displays—specifically using red font for Euro prices to mimic a "discount" or "sale" appearance. By law, both prices must be displayed with equal font size and colour to ensure total transparency. Mandatory dual pricing remains in effect until August 8, 2026.

During January 2026, consumers can still pay with Leva, but they will receive change in Euro.

As of this week, 96% of Bulgarian ATMs have been converted to dispense Euro banknotes. Citizens can exchange old Leva for Euro at commercial banks and post offices free of charge until July 1, 2026.

Importantly, the Bulgarian Ministry of Finance has officially dismissed rumours of an extension for the "dual circulation" period, confirming that the Bulgarian lev will cease to be legal tender after January 31, 2026.

The statement comes in response to public speculation and political calls to extend the transition. The Ministry clarified that from February 1, 2026, the euro will be the sole currency accepted for cash payments across the country.

The transition plan follows strict European regulations and local law (ZVERB).

Important dates:

• January 31, 2026: The final day you can use both levs and euros for cash payments.
• February 1, 2026: Only euros will be accepted for purchases.
• Fixed Rate: The exchange remains locked at € 1: BGN 1.95583.