Bulgaria has banned anonymous currency exchange in post offices, requiring user identification, in preparation for adopting the euro.

Bulgaria has modified the rules for currency exchange operations in postal offices, banning anonymous exchange of leva for euros, regardless of the amount. The governor of the Ruse region, Dragomir Draganov, announced that users of the currency exchange service at 'Bulgarian Post' must present a valid identification document. This measure, aimed at combating money laundering, has generated discontent, especially among the elderly who do not have the necessary documents. Identification extends the time required for transactions, and each exchange generates a personal receipt for traceability. Amounts of up to 1,000 leva can be exchanged on the spot, while for larger amounts a request is necessary, which can take 3-5 days. The governor warned against fraudulent offers of home assistance for exchanges. Additionally, postal offices have been equipped with video surveillance systems, and police presence has been intensified. Bulgaria, the poorest country in the EU, will adopt the euro on January 1, 2026, and traders are complaining about the lack of preparation for this change.