EU Approves Bulgaria to Join Eurozone in 2026

EU finance ministers have officially approved Bulgaria's adoption of the euro, setting January 1, 2026, as the date when Bulgaria will become the 21st member of the eurozone. The decision follows years of political instability in Bulgaria and intense domestic debate, with nearly half of Bulgarians opposing the switch, widespread protests, and a rejected referendum proposal. The official lev-euro conversion rate has been set at 1.95583. The European Commission and European Central Bank confirmed Bulgaria met the criteria for euro adoption. Supporters argue the move will boost investment, jobs, and economic integration, while opponents voice concerns over rising prices and loss of national identity. Bulgaria will be only the second country to join the eurozone in the last decade, after Croatia.