The Bulgarian National Bank published a status update on the cash changeover, stating that the withdrawal of lev banknotes and coins and the issuance of euro banknotes and coins are being carried out under the existing legal framework and approved operational plans, with the euro the sole legal tender in Bulgaria since 1 February 2026. As of the reporting date, BGN 4.8 billion in lev banknotes and coins remained outside the Bulgarian National Bank’s cash desks, corresponding to 84.5% of the lev that was in circulation at the start of 2025 having been withdrawn. Euro banknotes and coins with a total value of more than EUR 7.2 billion had been put into circulation to support the functioning of the payment system and cash services for the economy and the public.
National Bank of Bulgaria 2026-02-16
Bulgarian National Bank reports 84.5% of lev cash withdrawn and over EUR 7.2bn euro cash issued
The Bulgarian National Bank reported on the cash changeover, confirming the euro as the sole legal tender in Bulgaria since 1 February 2026. As of the reporting date, BGN 4.8 billion in lev remained outside the bank's cash desks, with 84.5% of lev withdrawn since early 2025. Euro banknotes and coins valued over EUR 7.2 billion have been circulated to support the payment system and cash services.