Everything you need to do in your first 30 days as an expat in Romania. Week-by-week priorities, costs, and insider tips.
Focus on Week 1 tasks first - they unlock everything else. Each task includes time and cost estimates. Check off items as you complete them.
Book hotel/Airbnb for 2+ weeks. You need a Romanian address for procedures.
Visit Orange/Vodafone/Telekom. Bring passport + address proof. Prepaid works without residence permit.
EU: gather Registration Certificate docs. Non-EU: prepare residence permit application. Check our detailed visa and residency guide for complete requirements.
STB (transport), Revolut/Wise (banking), Google Translate, Uber/Bolt, eMAG (shopping).
Visit IGI to submit Registration Certificate/Residence Permit application. Bring all documents + copies.
Visit Banca Transilvania/ING/Raiffeisen. Need residence registration receipt + passport. See our comprehensive banking guide for detailed bank comparisons and requirements.
Ensure landlord registers contract with ANAF. You'll need proof later.
Buy ACTIV card (Bucharest) or city equivalent. Much cheaper than daily tickets.
Some banks need CNP (from residence registration). If refused, try another bank or wait for registration completion.
Choose "medic de familie" for public healthcare access and sick leave certificates.
Regina Maria/Medicover/Sanador for faster, English-speaking healthcare.
Download transport app, learn main routes to work/shopping/center.
Find grocery stores, pharmacy, post office, ATMs. Note opening hours.
Experience "piață" (farmer's market). Try Piața Amzei in Bucharest.
Facebook groups: "Expats in Bucharest", "Foreigners in Romania" for advice/networking.
Sample mici, ciorbă de burtă, papanași. Understanding food culture helps integration.
Duolingo, italki tutor, or language exchange. Even basics help enormously.
You've completed your first month in Romania! You now have legal residence, banking, healthcare, and are integrating. The hardest part is behind you.
Related Guides:
• Romanian Visas & Residency Permits Guide
• Best Banks for Expats in Romania
• Romanian Healthcare System Guide