The European Council's Economic and Financial Affairs Council (ECOFIN) has finalized Bulgaria's accession process to the eurozone. Earlier, MEPs in Strasbourg adopted a report supporting Bulgaria's accession to the eurozone.

“We did it! On January 1, 2026, Bulgaria will officially adopt the euro,” Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov wrote on Twitter immediately after the key votes.

"We thank all institutions, partners, and everyone whose efforts made this landmark moment possible.  The government remains committed to a smooth and effective transition to the euro in the interests of all citizens," the prime minister added.

Finance Minister Temenuzhka Petkova confirmed that the exchange rate will be 1 euro = 1.95583 leva.

GERB-EPP MEP Eva Maydell noted that the facts are clear:

"National legislation is fully in line with European Union requirements. Price stability has been achieved with inflation below the reference value. Public finances are stable, and the deficit and debt requirements have been met. The currency has maintained a stable exchange rate within ERM II for more than the required two years. And although this report may seem rather technical, for every Bulgarian of the last three generations, it means much more."

The report on Bulgaria's accession to the euro received 531 votes in favor, 69 against, and 79 abstentions.

ECOFIN adopted the three legal acts, completing the procedure at EU level - Council Decision on the adoption of the euro by Bulgaria, Council Regulation amending Regulation 974/98 on the introduction of the euro in Bulgaria, and Council Regulation amending Regulation 2866/98 on the conversion rate to the euro for Bulgaria. I BGNES