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Best Banks for Expats in Romania

Complete guide to Romanian banking for foreigners. Compare top banks, fees, and services to find the perfect account for your needs.

Top Banks for Expats

After securing your visa or residence permit, opening a bank account is one of your first priorities. Here's our comprehensive comparison of the best Romanian banks for expats.

🟠 ING Bank Romania

Best Overall Choice for Expats

ING offers excellent English support, modern digital banking, and expat-friendly services.

βœ“ Pros

  • Full English support
  • Modern mobile app
  • No monthly fees
  • Easy online account opening
  • Excellent customer service

βœ— Cons

  • Fewer physical branches
  • Limited cash deposit options
  • Higher international transfer fees

πŸ”΅ BCR (Banca ComercialΔƒ RomΓ’nΔƒ)

Largest Bank Network

BCR is Romania's largest bank with the most extensive branch and ATM network nationwide.

βœ“ Pros

  • Largest ATM network
  • Branches everywhere
  • Comprehensive services
  • Good business banking
  • Established reputation

βœ— Cons

  • Limited English support
  • Higher fees
  • Slower digital adoption
  • More bureaucratic

🟑 Banca Transilvania

Best Digital Banking

BT offers innovative digital solutions and competitive rates for tech-savvy expats.

βœ“ Pros

  • Excellent mobile app
  • Competitive rates
  • Good English support
  • Modern services
  • Fast transactions

βœ— Cons

  • Smaller branch network
  • Limited international presence
  • Newer bank (less established)

🟒 Raiffeisen Bank

Best for International Banking

Austrian-owned bank with excellent international services and expat experience.

βœ“ Pros

  • International expertise
  • Good English support
  • Premium services
  • Strong in business banking
  • European banking standards

βœ— Cons

  • Higher fees
  • Fewer branches
  • Minimum balance requirements
  • More expensive services

Banking Comparison Table

Bank Monthly Fee English Support Mobile App International Transfers Best For
ING Bank 0 RON Excellent ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 15-25 EUR Digital-first expats
BCR 5-15 RON Limited ⭐⭐⭐ 20-30 EUR Traditional banking
Banca Transilvania 0-10 RON Good ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 15-20 EUR Tech-savvy users
Raiffeisen 10-25 RON Very Good ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 10-20 EUR International business

Account Opening Requirements

πŸ“‹ Required Documents

  • βœ“ Valid passport or ID
  • βœ“ Residence permit or visa
  • βœ“ Proof of address in Romania
  • βœ“ Employment contract or income proof
  • βœ“ Tax identification number (CNP)

πŸ’‘ Pro Tips

  • πŸ’° Start with ING for ease of use
  • πŸ“± Download the mobile app first
  • 🏒 Visit during weekday mornings
  • πŸ“ž Call ahead to book appointment
  • πŸ—£οΈ Bring a Romanian-speaking friend

Next Steps After Banking

Once you've opened your Romanian bank account, continue with other essential tasks from our first month checklist and learn about healthcare registration.