The Association of Banks in Bulgaria (ABB) assured that the banking system will ensure a smooth transition to the euro during the holidays and New Year's Eve.
The transition of the banking systems to the euro is planned for the period December 31 - January 2. Each bank will inform its clients about the accessibility of its digital channels during this period.
During the holidays, customers will be able to use their cards for payments at POS terminals and on the internet. In the interval between 9:00 PM on December 31 and 1:00 AM on January 1, the technical reconfiguration of the systems (cards, POS terminals, ATMs) will take place with temporary interruptions of the systems. All services will be gradually restored within 1 hour after midnight.
From January 1, 2026, the ATM network will begin to distribute euro banknotes.
The ABB recommends that citizens ensure sufficient funds on their cards before the holidays for convenience. It is also good to provide a certain amount of cash in leva for New Year's Eve, as lev banknotes and coins will be able to be used throughout the month of January during the period of dual circulation.