Expats moving to Romania will find it both challenging and rewarding. For many, Romania conjures images of gypsies, Dracula and Transylvania, but it has far more to offer. The country is growing as an international tourist destination and a gateway to business in Eastern Europe.
Situated along the western edge of the Black Sea, Romania shares borders with Hungary, Ukraine and Moldova to the north, while Serbia and Bulgaria are roughly to the south. Its geography encompasses the beaches on its eastern shores and the Carpathian Mountains, which give way to rolling hills, forests, farmlands and rustic villages in the towering shadow of a gothic castle.
Romania’s capital, Bucharest, stands on the banks of the Dambovita River and is the most popular destination for expats moving to Romania. Neglected under the communist government‘s despotic rule, the capital city has found its feet and is constantly growing in new directions. New restaurants and nightlife spots are always appearing, and the city is stamping its significance as an Eastern European centre for industry.
Expats looking for work in Romania or its capital should look for jobs in construction, engineering, IT, communications and software development. Between these opportunities, abundant natural beauty and a unique cultural atmosphere, Romania and its capital offer new arrivals something different from the quintessential expat destinations.
Foreigners wanting to move to Romania will need to obtain a work permit. As with many ex-communist countries, the process involves a fair amount of bureaucracy; however, EU citizens find it easier than expats moving from other parts of the world.
There are numerous national and international banks in Romania, offering all the services expats would expect in today’s fast-paced business environment.
The country is a key transport hub for Eastern Europe and has a comprehensive transport network with air, water, road and rail transportation available. Large amounts of money are also being invested in improving the national infrastructure.
Residents have access to public healthcare, although most expats choose to use private services. Similarly, the majority of expatriates send their children to international schools in Romania.
Seasoned expats will know that language difference plays a major role in culture shock. The official language in Romania is Romanian, while a small proportion of the population speak languages such as German, Hungarian and Vlax Romani. English is spoken in larger cities such as Bucharest, Constanta and Brasov, as well as tourist destinations.
Expats moving to Romania are treading off the beaten track when it comes to worldwide expat destinations. But, as an EU-member state, it welcomes business and trade, and is eager to make its mark on the business world.
Romania offers expats a range of outdoor destinations to explore, interesting cuisine, fantastic cultural sights and opportunities, and a jumping-off point from which to explore a meeting-point between Eastern and Western cultures.