Expats considering a move to Romania will naturally have many concerns about life in their new home. Here are our answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about expat life in Romania.
Is there a sizable expat community in Romania?
Romania is somewhat off the beaten path as an expat destination, but there are pockets of expats in the larger cities, particularly in Bucharest and Brașov. There are even some expat clubs in Bucharest. The Diplomat Bucharest and Nine o'Clock are great English news and media sources within the country.
Is Bucharest the only large 'expat city' in Romania?
Bucharest is not the only expat city in Romania, but it is the most popular. Many jobs available for expats are situated in Bucharest. Brașov is also a large city with some expats living there, though Bucharest's expat community is significantly larger.
Will I need to buy a car to get around Romania?
The public transport network in Romania is extensive and generally works well. The road network also extends across the country and is easy to use, but some roads aren't paved, and many of the roads fell into disrepair during the communist era. Owning a car in Romania is tricky, as the state of the roads in many parts of the country escalates the maintenance costs. We recommend public transport for most situations.
Is it necessary to have both a work permit and a visa to work in Romania?
To live and work in Romania, expats need both a long-term stay visa and a work permit. These are valid for a year and must be renewed at least 30 days before they expire. After living in the country for five years, expats can apply for permanent residency.