The Bulgarian National Bank reported that Bulgaria's cash changeover is proceeding under the existing legal framework and operational plans, with 92.52% of the lev banknotes and coins that were in circulation at the start of 2025 already withdrawn. It also noted that the euro has been the sole legal tender in Bulgaria since 1 February 2026. BGN 2.3 billion in lev banknotes and coins remained outside the central bank's cash desks. Net euro banknotes and coins in circulation exceeded EUR 8.4 billion, which the central bank said was sufficient to support the normal functioning of the payment system and meet the needs of the economy and the public.
National Bank of Bulgaria2026-05-08
Bulgarian National Bank reports 92.52% of lev cash withdrawn and euro circulation above EUR 8.4 billion
The Bulgarian National Bank reported that Bulgaria’s cash changeover is progressing under the existing legal and operational framework, with 92.52% of lev banknotes and coins in circulation at the start of 2025 already withdrawn and the euro serving as sole legal tender since 1 February 2026. It noted that BGN 2.3 billion in lev cash remains outside its cash desks and that net euro banknotes and coins in circulation exceed EUR 8.4 billion, sufficient to support normal payment system functioning and economic needs.