site.btaCurrency Conversion, Pensions and Support for Elderly among Key Topics at Euro Information Campaign Meetings

As part of Bulgaria’s national information campaign on the euro, meetings were held on Wednesday in Pravets, Byala, Brezovo, Nikopol, Kocherinovo and Loznitsa. Experts explained the main stages and deadlines for adopting the euro, the rules for dual price display, and issues related to taxes, bank accounts and interest rates.

In Pravets, it was clarified that bank accounts will be automatically converted to euros, with a dual circulation period only in January 2026. From February, payments will be made solely in euros, though levs will remain exchangeable at banks without limit, and free of charge during the first six months.

In Byala, residents asked about bank loans, interest rates and price labels. Experts explained that dual price display is mandatory until August 2026 and that salaries will be rounded differently from retail prices.

In Brezovo, concerns focused on elderly people’s ability to cope with the change. Authorities assured a smooth transition, with regular inspections of retailers and advice for families to support older relatives.

In Nikopol, Kocherinovo and Loznitsa, questions centred on potential limits and fees for exchanging larger amounts, as well as pension recalculations. Officials stressed there will be no losses for pensioners, and that ATMs will dispense cash only in euros after the transition. Citizens were also warned against fraudsters posing as officials.

The aim of the campaign is to provide citizens with clear, detailed and reliable information on the main stages and deadlines of the euro introduction process.

The euro information meetings are a joint effort between the responsible institutions, including the Ministry of Finance, the Bulgarian National Bank, the Ministry of Economy and Industry, the Consumer Protection Commission (CPC), the National Revenue Agency, the Financial Supervision Commission, the National Social Security Institute, among others.

The nationwide information campaign was launched in Burgas (on the Black Sea) on September 2. Bulgaria is set to adopt the euro as of January 1, 2026, becoming the 21st member of the euro area.