Currency exchange services

When traveling to Bulgaria with currency, amounts up to the equivalent of 10,000 USD can be exported from Russia and imported into Bulgaria without mandatory customs declaration. However, for depositing funds into a Bulgarian bank account, be prepared for banks to inquire about the source of funds due to AML regulations. It is advisable to obtain and fill out a customs declaration form in advance to facilitate future bank transactions.

While many banks in Bulgaria introduced currency exchange fees as of July, some branches of Investbank continue to offer commission-free exchange for BGN to EUR. Verification at the branch is recommended as policies may vary by location.

For large currency exchanges in Bulgaria when banks are closed, look for exchange offices on Alexandrovska Street (Burgas). Always explicitly request new-series banknotes (clean, no stains, with a blue security strip) before the transaction, as older notes may be difficult to exchange later.

Bulgarian Lev (BGN) can be exchanged for Euros (EUR) at the Bulgarian National Bank (BNB) without limitations. While tourists can exchange currency, it's generally advised to hold onto Euros as they are a stable currency. Exchange of Lev is possible; the BNB is the official entity for such transactions.

For currency exchange in Sunny Beach, Bulgaria, consider the small bank located at the beginning of the central pedestrian street on the left side. Alternatively, Investbank in Nessebar also offers currency exchange services.

For currency exchange in Burgas, Bulgaria, banks like CCB (Central Cooperative Bank) are recommended over tourist exchange points. CCB generally offers competitive, centralized rates with no commission for non-clients.

Bulgarian banks continue to exchange Bulgarian Leva (BGN) for Euros (EUR). As of recent reports, some banks are offering this exchange without commission, and this policy is expected to remain in effect until the end of the current year (2026, based on log date context).

In Bulgaria, authorized banks are mandated to exchange BGN to EUR at a fixed official rate (1.95583) without commission until July 1, 2026. Private exchange offices may charge significant commissions, sometimes reaching 20% on small transactions or specific payments.

The exchange of Bulgarian Lev (BGN) to Euro (EUR) is ongoing. Until June 30, 2026, exchange is commission-free at all banks and post offices. After this date, banks and post offices may charge fees and phase out the service. The Bulgarian National Bank (BNB) will continue to exchange Lev to Euro indefinitely and without commission or limits.

Current exchange rate for USD to EUR in Bulgaria can be obtained from local banks or exchange offices. It's advisable to check real-time rates as they fluctuate.

As of July 1st, commercial banks in Bulgaria may charge fees for exchanging Bulgarian Lev (BGN) to Euro (EUR). Many banks have stated they will extend free exchange periods. The Bulgarian National Bank (BNB) continues to offer free and unlimited exchanges. Bulgarian Post ('Български пощи') has introduced fees: 6 EUR for exchanges up to 1000 BGN, and 10 EUR for exchanges over 10,000 BGN. By May, 92% of Lev cash was out of circulation. It is advisable to check bank fee schedules.

Bulgarian Leva can be exchanged for Euros in various locations. Specific successful exchanges reported in Varna (Konstantin and Elena area) and Burgas Plaza (first floor exchange office, 1% commission for smaller denominations). One user successfully exchanged Leva to Euro at a bank in Burgas using a Russian passport. Local rumors about not accepting Leva are often inaccurate.

Bulgaria has fully transitioned to the Euro. The Bulgarian Lev (BGN) is no longer legal tender. Remaining BGN currency can only be exchanged at financial institutions; it is not accepted for retail transactions.

Old-style US dollar bills (white-grey color) can be exchanged or deposited into a Euro account in Bulgaria. One user successfully performed this transaction at DSK Bank.

When in Bulgaria, it's generally best to use Bulgarian Lev (BGN). While Euros are widely accepted in tourist areas, the exchange rate might not be favorable, and older denominations might be refused by private individuals or in certain less-touristy establishments. For example, one user reported a refusal of a 500 Euro note and inconsistent acceptance of cards at Kaufland supermarkets. It's advisable to have local currency or newer Euro banknotes for transactions.