Romania

U.S. Embassy Romania

4-6 Liviu Librescu Blvd.
District 1
Bucharest, Romania
Telephone: (+40) 21 200-3300, (+40) 21 270-6000 
Fax: (+40) 21 200-3578
Email: ACSBucharest@state.gov 

Please visit the Embassy's COVID-19 page for more information on entry/ exit requirements related to COVID-19 in Romania.

• You must have a U.S. passport that is valid for at least three months beyond your departure date from Romania.
• U.S. citizens may enter and remain in Romania without a visa for up to 90 days total in any 180-day period. Departing Romania and attempting to re-enter Romania does not “restart the clock”. U.S. citizens who depart Romania and return after spending less than 90 days in the 180-day period prior to their return will be admitted for the remainder of the 90 days. U.S. citizens attempting to re-enter Romania after having already spent 90 days in Romania in the 180-day period prior to return may be denied re-entry to Romania. 
• U.S. citizens who wish to stay longer than 90 days must obtain an extension (resident permit) from the Romanian Immigration Inspectorate. 
• U.S. citizens traveling to Romania should also consult the CDC’s Romania website for immunization and other health information.
• U.S.-Romanian dual nationals should consult the Romanian Border Police website for information on exit requirements. 
• If you have a temporary or permanent Romanian residence permit, be ready to present it upon request from local competent authorities.

Visit the Embassy of Romania website for most current entry and visa information. 

The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Romania.

Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking soft targets and are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack –including knives, firearms, rudimentary explosive devices, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds.

Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.) 
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists 
• Places of worship 
• Schools 
• Parks 
• Shopping malls and markets 
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Crime: Reported types of crime include:

• Robbery, pick pocketing, internet scams, and credit card fraud are the most commonly reported crimes. 
• Organized groups of criminals, sometimes including minors, operate in train stations, trains, subways, and busses.
• Money exchange schemes often involve individuals posing as plainclothes policemen who approach you, flash a badge, and ask for your passport and wallet. Insist on the presence of a uniformed police officer and request that any issues be resolved at the police station.
• If traveling on an overnight train, travel with a companion and in the highest class available.
• Do not leave your personal belongings unattended; stow them securely out of sight.
• Use ATMs located inside banks. You should check ATM machines for any evidence of tampering before use.
• Be extra cautious of your surroundings if using an internet café.

Be cautious about entering into contracts with Romanian businesses and/or organizations without legal assistance. The Romanian legal system is difficult for foreigners to navigate, making the assistance of a local attorney nearly essential.

International Financial Scams: See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information. 

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Romania. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:  

• Romance/Online dating 
• Money transfers 
• Grandparent/Relative targeting 
• Lotteries 
• Bank overpayments 

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance at (+40) 21 270-6000. Report crimes to the local police at 112. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.

We can: 

• Help you find medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police 
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent 
• Provide information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion 
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited  medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport 

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance. 

Tourism: The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules [with regards to best practices and safety inspections] are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available in/near major cities. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. Medical treatment in Romania does not meet U.S. standards. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Note:

• Romania is situated in a seismically active region and has a history of devastating earthquakes, with the greatest risk in Bucharest.
• Avoid contact with stray dogs. You may consult the CDC’s Romania website for rabies immunization and other health information.

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. A U.S. passport does not entitle the bearer to any special privileges or preferential treatment in Romania. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.  

Be aware that 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 three years.

Romania has strict regulations on importing/exporting firearms, other weapons, drugs, antiquities, local currency and gold or gold jewelry. Contact the Romanian Customs Office for specific information regarding customs requirements.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website. 

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately.  A Consular officer will visit you as soon as possible after notification and will provide a list of English speaking lawyers. See our webpage for further information.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give the counterfeit or pirated goods up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information. 

Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in Romania. The annual gay pride parades in Bucharest have been the scene of violent protests in past years, though this has been less common recently.

See our LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities: The law in Romania prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities, and the law is enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States. Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure. There is a significant difference between the large cities and the rest of the country.

Availability of rental, repair, replacement parts for aids/equipment/devices, or service providers, such as sign language interpreters or personal assistants is very limited. Contact the Embassy for information on providers.

Students:  See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips.

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers. 

Please visit the Embassy's COVID-19 page for more information on COVID-19 in Romania. 

Medical care in Romania is generally not up to Western standards, and basic medical supplies are limited, especially outside major cities. Some medical providers that meet Western quality standards are available in Bucharest and other cities but can be difficult to identify and locate. Medical tourism and elective surgeries are not prevalent, particularly outside of large cities. Hospitals and doctors often require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. Credit card payment is not always available.  Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment. Travelers seeking medical treatment should therefore choose their provider carefully.

Psychological and psychiatric services are limited outside of the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions. 

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 following Romanian National Agency for Medicines and Medical Devices website.

For emergency services in Romania, dial 112.

Ambulance services are not present throughout the country and are unreliable in some areas except in or around major cities. 

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. 

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas. 

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation. 

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.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality: Air pollution is a significant problem in several 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. Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates. 

The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. 

Road Conditions and Safety: Though Romanian traffic laws are very strict, road accidents are a real threat in Romania. According to the European Commission, Romania has the highest per-vehicle rate of road fatalities of any country in the EU.

While major streets in larger cities and major inter-city roads are generally in fair to good condition, many secondary roads are poor quality unpaved, poorly lit, narrow, and lacking 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 hazardous 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, forcing pedestrians to walk in the streets.
• Cross only at crosswalks and exercise vigilance as crosswalks are generally poorly marked.

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.
• Refusal to take a breathalyzer test may result in criminal penalties regardless of whether or not alcohol was involved.
• Wearing a seat belt is mandatory.
• Children under 12 years of age may not be transported in the front seat.
• Use of mobile phones while driving is banned, with exception of hands free systems.

U.S. citizens arriving in Romania for stays up to 90 days may use their U.S. state drivers’ licenses (DL) along with an International Driving Permit. See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit the website of Romania's National Tourist Office and national authority responsible for road safety.

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

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 are not in possession of a valid international insurance document must buy short-term insurance at the border.

Public Transportation: Public transportation in Romania is inexpensive and reliable. Inner city travel options include a variety of buses, trams, trolleybuses, and “maxitaxis” (private vans operating as shared taxis).

• You can purchase bus or tram tickets at street kiosks before boarding and validate the ticket once aboard.
• For “maxitaxis” you may buy a ticket directly from the driver.
• Bucharest is the only city with an underground metro.
• Ride-hailing services operate in Bucharest and other main cities.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) assessed the government of Romania’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Romania’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA website.