Romania

Emergency numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 112 for police
• Dial 112 for ambulance
• Dial 0800-500-333 for toll-free domestic violence hotline

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)

For more information, review our Terrorism page.

Demonstrations 

Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays and during large events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations. 
• Past demonstrations have turned violent.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Crime

• Robbery, pick pocketing, online relationship scams, and credit card fraud are the most commonly reported crimes. 
• If traveling on an overnight train, travel with a companion and in the highest class available.
• Do not leave your personal belongings unattended. Hide them in a location where no one can see them.
• Use ATMs located inside banks. You should check ATM machines for any evidence of tampering before use.
• Be cautious about entering into contracts with Romanian businesses or organizations without legal assistance. The Romanian legal system is difficult for foreigners to navigate. You will likely need help from a local attorney.  

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

Scams are common in Romania. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Free trip or luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

If using dating apps or websites in Romania: 

• Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone. 
• Meet in a popular public place.
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person. 
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule.

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 112.

Review our information for Victims of Crime. 

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care. 
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system. 
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.

U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the nearest U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications. 
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is regulated:

• Rules and safety inspections are regularly enforced. 
• Dangerous areas and activities are marked with signs.
• Trained and certified staff are usually there to help with organized activities.
• If you get injured, you can usually get medical help locally.
• In rural areas, it might take longer for medical help to arrive and help.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance. 
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.  

Adventure travel

• Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Romania seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.
• Recreational drug possession is not allowed in Romania, regardless of type or quantity. The penalty for possession of drugs for personal use can be imprisonment of up to 3 years. 
• Romania has strict regulations on importing and exporting firearms, other weapons, drugs, antiquities, local currency, and gold or gold jewelry. Contact the Romanian Customs Office for specific information regarding customs requirements.

Arrest notification

If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately.  

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws. 
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. 
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States. 

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice  

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources: 

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Romania.
• The annual gay pride parades in Bucharest have been the scene of violent protests in past years. However, this has been less common recently. 
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with disabilities and or accessibility needs

• The law in Romania prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities. The law is enforced.
• Accessibility is common in newer infrastructure. Smaller towns and rural areas, as well as older city buildings, often lack accessibility features.
• General public sentiment around disability is improving. However, some Romanians still think of disability as a personal misfortune. This belief can lead to stigma and lower expectations in society. As a result, travelers face challenges.
• Rental, repair, and replacement parts for aids, equipment, and devices are hard to find. Service providers, like sign language interpreters or personal assistants, are also limited.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad. 

Women travelers 

• Review our information for Women Travelers.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Romania Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency numbers

• Dial 112 for emergency medical services

Ambulance services

Ambulance services are widely available. However, training and response time of emergency responders may be poor. Public ambulances are free of charge.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad.  Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Credit card payment is not always available.
• Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
• Private hospitals often need payment up front or proof of valid insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient. Emergency rooms at public emergency hospitals are free of charge.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice 

Healthcare facilities

• Health facilities are generally not up to U.S. standards. However, some medical providers in Bucharest and other cities meet U.S. standards.
• It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.
• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies, especially outside major cities. 
• Private hospitals and doctors often require payment upfront prior to service or admission.
• County psychiatric emergency hospitals provide emergency mental health services.

Medical tourism and elective surgery

• Medical tourism is a fast-growing industry. If you want healthcare abroad, you need to know that their medical systems are different from the United States. They don't follow the same rules. Before you travel for medical reasons, talk to your doctor.
• Visit the CDC’s Medical Tourism website for information on medical tourism. Find out about the risks of medical tourism and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Romania.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications. 
• Your legal options in case of malpractice may be limited in Romania.  
• Although Romania has many elective or cosmetic surgery facilities, the quality of care varies widely. If you plan to undergo surgery in Romania, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available, and professionals are accredited and qualified.  

Prescription medications

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Check with the Romanian National Agency for Medicines and Medical Devices to ensure the medication is legal in Romania.
• Most prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications are available in Romania but are often sold under different names. A list of approved medicines available in Romania can be found on the website of the Romanian National Agency for Medicines and Medical Devices.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.  If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy (ART)

• If you are considering traveling to Romania to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.
• Surrogacy is largely unregulated in Romania with no clear legal protections for foreign intended parents. Surrogacy agreements may not be enforced by Romanian courts.
•  If you decide to pursue parenthood in Romania via ART with a surrogate, consider hiring a reputable local attorney and be prepared for long and unexpected delays in documenting your child’s birth with local authorities and/or citizenship status. Be aware that individuals who attempt to circumvent local law risk legal consequences.  

Water quality & food safety

• Tap water is generally safe to drink and use in cooking.
• In some locations, tap water is not available every day.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. 

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many major cities in Romania. Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you and consult your doctor before traveling if necessary. 

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Romania.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Road conditions and safety

• Road accidents are a real threat in Romania. According to the European Commission, Romania has the highest per-vehicle rate of road deaths of any country in the EU.
• Major streets in larger cities and major inter-city roads are generally in fair to good condition. But many secondary roads are poor quality, unpaved, poorly lit, narrow, and lack marked lanes.
• Mountain roads are dangerous when wet or covered with snow or ice. Snow removal is intermittent.
• Mountainous areas can be subject to torrential rains and flash floods, especially in the spring and summer.
• Streets and sidewalks are often icy and dangerous during winter.
• It is common for pedestrians, animals, cyclists, and horse-drawn carts to share a road with motor vehicles, especially in rural areas.
• Parked vehicles often block sidewalks. This forces pedestrians to walk in the streets.
• Cross only at crosswalks. Be careful as crosswalks are generally poorly marked.
• Carry spare tires, fuel, and tools. The law requires motorists to carry a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, and reflective triangles. This is not required for motorcycles and mopeds.

Traffic laws 

Romanian traffic laws are very strict.

• The traffic police can confiscate a driver's license or permit for 1-3 months and request payment of fines at the time of the infraction.
• Police are required to give all drivers involved in an accident a breathalyzer test on the scene.
• The Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) limit in Romania is 0.0. Any alcohol in a driver’s system can be grounds for legal action.
• If you refuse a breathalyzer test, you could face criminal penalties. This can happen even if you haven’t been drinking alcohol.
• Wearing a seat belt is mandatory.
• Children under 12 years of age can’t ride in the front seat.
• Using cellphones while driving is illegal, with the exception of hands-free systems.
• Use of U.S. state issued drivers’ licenses may not be enough to operate motor vehicles in Romania. U.S. citizens arriving in Romania for stays up to 180 days may use their U.S. state drivers’ licenses with an International Driving Permit after that time.
• Most rental car companies require international driving permits.
• If entering Romania by vehicle you must purchase a road tax badge, “rovinieta,” at the border crossing point. Proof of insurance and a car registration document are required. Drivers of vehicles registered abroad who do not have a valid international insurance document must buy short-term insurance at the border.

What to do in an accident:

• The driver in an accident with injury or death must call the emergency number 112 right away. They must not move the vehicle, change anything, or leave the scene of the accident.
• If an accident only damages vehicles, drivers should:
  • Move their cars to the side of the road.
  • Signal their presence.
  • Report the accident to the police or exchange insurance information.
  • Fill out an amicable accident report.

For current traffic regulations and speed limits in Romania please visit the website of the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Taxi and ride-sharing services are generally safe and convenient in Romania.
• Use official ride-sharing apps like Uber or Bolt. Confirm the driver and car details before your trip. Always verify that the meter is running or that the ride is recorded through the app.  

Public and commercial transportation

Public transportation in Romania is inexpensive and reliable.

• Inner city travel options include a variety of buses, trams, or trolleybuses.
• You can purchase bus or tram tickets at street kiosks before boarding.  Validate the ticket once aboard. You can buy fares in the Bucharest metro and on most city buses using contactless Visa, Mastercard, or Maestro bank cards. Just tap on the validators at gates or on the vehicles.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Romania’s Civil Aviation Authority meets international standards for aviation safety oversight.  FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel

Mariners planning travel to Romania should check the following: 

• U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Advisories
• MARAD Active Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings

Romania has a continental climate. Winters are cold, while summers are hot.  Springs and autumns are mild. Mountain regions experience harsher winters. Plains and coastal areas are warmer all year.

The top 5 weather events in Romania are:

Earthquakes

• Romania has moderate seismic activity. It also has a history of strong earthquakes. Bucharest faces the highest risk.

Flooding

• Heavy rainfall and snowmelt in spring and early summer can cause river overflow and flash floods.

Severe Winter Storms

• Common in mountainous and northern regions.

Heatwaves

• Common during the summer in southern and urban areas.

Drought

•  Long dry spells often happen in the summer, especially in the southern and eastern regions.

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.
• U.S. citizens who wish to stay longer than 90 days must obtain an extension, also known as a resident permit, from the Romanian Immigration Inspectorate.