The Bulgarian National Bank published an update on Bulgaria’s cash changeover, confirming that the withdrawal of BGN banknotes and coins and the circulation of euro cash are proceeding under the current regulatory framework and approved operational plans. It reported that the withdrawal rate has reached 90%, significantly earlier than preliminary expectations for the end of June 2026. As of the reporting date, BGN 2.9 billion remained outside the Bulgarian National Bank’s cash desks, while euro banknotes and coins in circulation on a net issuance basis totalled more than EUR 7.8 billion. The bank also reiterated that the euro has been the only legal tender in the Republic of Bulgaria since 1 February 2026.
National Bank of Bulgaria 2026-03-27
Bulgarian National Bank reports 90% withdrawal of BGN cash with BGN 2.9bn still outstanding and euro net issuance above EUR 7.8bn
The Bulgarian National Bank reported that the withdrawal of Bulgarian lev (BGN) banknotes and coins has reached 90%, ahead of the expected timeline. As of the reporting date, BGN 2.9 billion remained outside the bank's cash desks, while euro banknotes and coins in circulation totalled over EUR 7.8 billion. The euro has been the sole legal tender in Bulgaria since 1 February 2026.