·Republic of Bulgaria·Significant change·In force
Bulgaria adopts the euro and completes Schengen accession
By Sam Parks · Last reviewed:
Bulgaria adopted the euro on 1 January 2026, having already joined the Schengen area in 2025, changing the travel and currency context for residents.
What changed
Policy claim 1
The euro replaced the Bulgarian lev as legal tender on 1 January 2026, with the lev fixed at 1.95583 to the euro during conversion.
Claim ID: bg-2026-01-euro-adoption#claim-1·Cite this claim
Source: Bulgarian National Bank (Bulgarian National Bank)·source verified ·page reviewed
Policy claim 2
Bulgaria is a full member of the Schengen area, so residence-permit holders can travel within Schengen under the standard 90/180-day rule.
Claim ID: bg-2026-01-euro-adoption#claim-2·Cite this claim
Source: Bulgarian National Bank (Bulgarian National Bank)·source verified ·page reviewed
Policy claim 3
Bulgaria no longer operates a citizenship-by-investment programme; residence-by-investment remains available.
Claim ID: bg-2026-01-euro-adoption#claim-3·Cite this claim
Source: Bulgarian National Bank (Bulgarian National Bank)·source verified ·page reviewed