The ultimate 2025 guide to choosing the perfect bank in Romania. Compare all major banks, digital options, fees, and get step-by-step account opening instructions.
After securing your Romanian visa, opening a bank account is your next priority. Here are the best traditional Romanian banks for expats, ranked by expat-friendliness and service quality.
Best Overall Choice for Expats
ING offers excellent English support, modern digital banking, and expat-friendly services.
Largest Bank Network
BCR is Romania's largest bank with the most extensive branch and ATM network nationwide.
Best Digital Banking
BT offers innovative digital solutions and competitive rates for tech-savvy expats.
Best for International Banking
Austrian-owned bank with excellent international services and expat experience.
| Bank | Monthly Fee | English Support | Mobile App | International Transfers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ING Bank | 0 RON | Excellent | βββββ | 15-25 EUR | Digital-first expats |
| BCR | 5-15 RON | Limited | βββ | 20-30 EUR | Traditional banking |
| Banca Transilvania | 0-10 RON | Good | βββββ | 15-20 EUR | Tech-savvy users |
| Raiffeisen | 10-25 RON | Very Good | ββββ | 10-20 EUR | International business |
Modern expats also benefit from digital banking solutions alongside traditional Romanian banks.
Best for International Transactions
European digital bank with Romanian IBAN and excellent exchange rates.
Best for Multi-Currency Management
Global fintech with Romanian account details and transparent fees.
| Service | ING Bank | BCR | Banca Transilvania | Raiffeisen | Revolut |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Fee | 0 RON | 5-15 RON | 0-10 RON | 10-25 RON | 0-35 RON |
| Debit Card | Free | 10-20 RON/year | Free | 15-30 RON/year | Free |
| ATM Withdrawals | Free (own network) | 2-5 RON (other banks) | Free (own network) | 3-6 RON (other banks) | 200 RON/month free |
| SEPA Transfers | 2-5 RON | 5-15 RON | 3-8 RON | 8-20 RON | Free (up to limit) |
| International Transfers | 15-25 EUR | 20-30 EUR | 15-20 EUR | 10-20 EUR | 0.5% fee |
Problem: Most Romanian banks operate primarily in Romanian.
Solution: Choose ING or Raiffeisen for better English support, or use Google Translate app with camera feature for documents.
Problem: Complex paperwork and multiple document requirements.
Solution: Prepare all documents in advance. Get official translations if needed. Our visa guide covers required documents.
Problem: Unexpected charges for services that seem basic.
Solution: Always ask for a complete fee schedule. Read the fine print. Consider digital banks like Revolut for transparency.
Problem: Limited branch hours and long queues.
Solution: Use mobile banking for most transactions. Visit branches early morning or book appointments. Consider digital-first banks.
Why: Best combination of English support, digital features, and no monthly fees.
Why: Perfect for international transactions and travel.
Once you've opened your Romanian bank account, continue with other essential tasks from our first month checklist and learn about healthcare registration.
Modern expats benefit from combining traditional Romanian banks with digital banking solutions for maximum flexibility and cost savings.
Best for Multi-Currency & Travel
Best for International Transfers
Congratulations! Once you've opened your Romanian bank account, you're ready for the next essential steps in your expat journey.
Essential tasks for your first 30 days in Romania, including ANAF registration and healthcare setup.
π₯Navigate Romania's healthcare system and find English-speaking medical services.
πΌLearn about Romanian tax requirements and the annual DeclaraΘia UnicΔ.