The European Parliament has voted in favor of Bulgaria’s accession to the euro zone, confirming that the country meets all the criteria for adopting the single currency. According to a statement from the European institution, Bulgaria will become the 21st member of the euro zone from January 1, 2026, reports IPN.
“Today’s vote sends a clear signal: Bulgaria is ready to join the eurozone. All criteria have been met, and this step marks a crucial stage towards Bulgaria’s full European integration, for the country and its citizens,” declared Bulgarian MEP Eva Maydell, after the voting session.
The parliament’s notice will be sent to the member states in the eurozone, which are expected to give the final green light to Bulgaria.
Recently, the European Commission and the European Central Bank confirmed that Bulgaria meets all the necessary technical criteria for joining the euro zone, including price stability, fiscal discipline, and long-term interest rate.
Thus, from January 1, 2026, Bulgaria will become the 21st member state of the eurozone.
In the context of the decision regarding Bulgaria’s accession to the euro zone, protests against the adoption of the euro have taken place over several weeks in various cities of the country – including Sofia, Pazardjik, Burgas, Shumen, Ruse, and Yambol.
