What Is Bulgaria’s Currency? – What You Need to Know About the Bulgarian Lev (BGN)

💰 Bulgaria’s Official Currency

Bulgaria’s official currency is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN).
Its international currency code is BGN.

The Bulgarian Lev is the only legal tender in Bulgaria. The Euro, US Dollar, or any other foreign currency is not officially accepted. All daily expenses and official transactions are carried out using the Bulgarian Lev (BGN).

🏛️ A Brief History of the Bulgarian Lev

The Bulgarian Lev was first introduced in 1881.
The modern Lev in use today was established after the 1999 monetary reform, when it was pegged to the Euro under a fixed exchange rate system.

Bulgaria’s monetary policy is managed by the Bulgarian National Bank. The Lev plays an important role in maintaining the country’s economic stability.

💹 Abbreviations and Symbols of Bulgaria’s Currency

Key information about the Bulgarian Lev:

• Abbreviation: BGN

• Symbol: лв

• Subunit: 1 Lev = 100 stotinka

Prices are generally displayed in Leva, while stotinka is commonly used for small-value purchases.

💱 Bulgarian Banknotes and Coins

📌 Banknotes

The main banknotes in circulation in Bulgaria are:

• 5 BGN

• 10 BGN

• 20 BGN

• 50 BGN

• 100 BGN

📌 Coins

Coins commonly used in daily life include:

• 1 stotinka

• 2 stotinka

• 5 stotinka

• 10 stotinka

• 20 stotinka

• 50 stotinka

• 1 Lev

• 2 Leva

💸 Can You Send Money from Türkiye to Bulgaria?

Yes.

With PayPorter, sending money from Türkiye to Bulgaria is fast, secure, and cost-effective.

Thanks to PayPorter’s international money transfer service and secure infrastructure, transfers to Bulgaria reach the recipient in a short time.

🔹 PayPorter Advantages

• Money transfers to more than 185 countries

• Competitive transaction fees

• Secure and licensed infrastructure

• Nearly 500 branches and agent locations

• Fast transfer process

You can visit the relevant page to send money from Türkiye to Bulgaria.

🌍 Can the Bulgarian Lev Be Used in Türkiye?

No.
The Bulgarian Lev is not an official payment method in Türkiye and is available only on a limited basis at exchange offices.

For financial transactions between Türkiye and Bulgaria, Euro or US Dollar is generally preferred. Additionally, secure money transfers from Bulgaria to Türkiye can be made via PayPorter.

💡 Interesting Facts About the Bulgarian Currency

• The Bulgarian Lev is one of the most stable currencies in the Balkans.

• It is pegged to the Euro under a fixed exchange rate system.

• Card and contactless payments are common in major cities.

• Cash is still important in smaller towns.

• Banknote designs feature important figures from Bulgarian history.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Bulgaria’s Currency (FAQ)

What is Bulgaria’s official currency?

Bulgaria’s official currency is the Bulgarian Lev (BGN).

Is the Euro accepted in Bulgaria?

No. The Euro is not the official currency, though it may be accepted in some tourist establishments.

Is only one currency used in Bulgaria?

Yes. The Bulgarian Lev is the only legal and official payment method.

Can I send money from Türkiye to Bulgaria?

Yes. You can send money quickly and securely to Bulgaria with PayPorter.

Is credit card usage common in Bulgaria?

Yes. Credit cards are widely used in major cities and tourist areas.

Can I withdraw cash from ATMs in Bulgaria?

Yes. Most international cards are accepted; transaction fees may vary depending on the bank.

Last Uptade: January 2026

This content is provided for general informational purposes only and does not aim to cover all aspects of the topics discussed. The information herein should not be considered a substitute for advice from a qualified professional. Nothing in this publication should be interpreted as legal, tax, or professional advice provided by PayPorter or its affiliates. While we strive to keep our content accurate and up to date, we make no representations or warranties regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information provided.