Banking System Ready to Ensure Smooth Euro Transition Over the Holidays, New Year’s Eve, Bulgarian Banks Association Says

The Association of Banks in Bulgaria (ABB) announced in a statement to the media on Friday that the banking system is fully prepared to ensure a smooth transition to the euro during the holiday period and New Year’s Eve.

The ABB explained that the technical switch of banking systems to the euro is scheduled between December 31 and January 2. Each bank will notify its customers about the availability of its digital services during this period.

Throughout the holidays, customers will still be able to use their cards for POS and online payments. However, between 9:00 p.m. on December 31 and 1:00 a.m. on January 1, system reconfigurations, covering cards, POS terminals and ATMs, may cause brief service interruptions. All services are expected to be gradually restored within an hour after midnight. Banks will provide their customers with specific details about the exact timing of these adjustments. Once the transition is complete, card payments will operate normally, with all transactions processed in euros, the association explained.

Beginning January 1, 2026, ATMs across the country will start dispensing euro banknotes.

For convenience, the ABB recommends that citizens ensure they have sufficient funds on their cards before the holidays. It also advises keeping some BGN cash on hand for New Year’s Eve, noting that Bulgarian banknotes and coins will remain in use throughout January during the dual circulation period.