Published on the 29th of December 2025
After joining the European Union in 2007, Bulgaria will adopt the euro on 1 January 2026 and become the 21st member of the euro area. Bulgaria’s entry was enabled by its compliance with the convergence criteria and its accession will strengthen its economic integration with its euro area partners. However, it still has institutional and structural challenges to face if it is to accelerate its economic catch-up.