Guide for non-EU workers arriving in Romania

More and more workers from outside the European Union are choosing Romania as their work destination. The country offers stable jobs, rising salaries and opportunities in many fields. This article presents you with the most important information about living and working in Romania.
WEATHER IN ROMANIA


Romania has a temperate climate, with four well-defined seasons:

Spring (March – May)

  • Temperatures gradually increase: 10–20°C
  • Frequent rains can occur.

Summer (June – August)

  • 25–35°C, sometimes even over 35°C in the south.
  • Large cities can be warmer, especially Bucharest, Constanța and Craiova.

Autumn (September – November)

  • 10–20°C at first, then temperatures drop.
  • It is a pleasant season, with many sunny days.

Winter (December – February)

  • Temperatures can drop below 0°C.
  • Snowfall is common, especially in the north and in mountainous areas.

Tip: if you come from a warm country, prepare warm clothes for the winter.

Important: Romania does not pose a risk to its population in terms of weather phenomena. It also has a national SMS alert system in case of certain unforeseen situations.

So, Romania can offer you a pleasant and not at all monotonous stay with so many seasons.

Important cities and areas of interest

Bucharest

  • Capital and largest city.
  • Center for IT, construction, retail, transport and services.
  • Heavy traffic, but many job opportunities.

Cluj-Napoca

  • Modern, university, multicultural city.
  • Strong development in IT and services.

Timisoara

  • Close to the border with Serbia and Hungary.
  • Developed in the automotive industry, manufacturing and services.

Brașov

  • Tourist and industrial area.
  • Opportunities in hotels, restaurants, construction and logistics.

Constanța

  • Important port on the Black Sea.
  • Summer seasonal work and many jobs in shipping, logistics and tourism.
Romania as an economy – in brief
  • Romania has been one of the fastest growing economies in Europe in recent years.
  • Official currency: Romanian Leu (RON).
  • The cost of living is lower than in Western Europe, but varies between cities.
  • Sectors with the highest demand for foreign workers:
    • Construction
    • Transport and logistics
    • Manufacturing
    • Services (cleaning, HoReCa, sales)
    • Agriculture
    • IT (mainly specialist positions)
Salaries in different fields (guidelines)

Salaries vary depending on city, experience and company. Below are approximate monthly net ranges (cash received in hand).

Construction

  • Unskilled workers: 2,500 – 3,500 RON
  • Skilled workers (painter, blacksmith, electrician, plumber): 3,500 – 5,000 RON
  • Team leaders: 5,000 – 7,500 RON

Transport / Drivers

  • Category B drivers: 3,000 – 4,000 RON
  • International TIR drivers: 8,000 – 12,000 RON (salary + daily allowance)

HoReCa (Hotels, restaurants, cafes)

  • Helper cook: 2,500 – 3,500 RON
  • Chef: 3,500 – 5,500 RON
  • Waiter: 2,500 – 3,500 RON (at good restaurants they can receive additional tips)

Industry and factories

  • Production line operator: 2,700 – 3,800 RON
  • Welders, mechanics, technicians: 4,000 – 6,000 RON

Cleaning / Services

  • Cleaning workers: 2,000 – 3,000 RON
  • Supermarket staff: 2,800 – 3,500 RON

IT / Specialists

  • Junior programmers: 5,000 – 8,000 RON
  • Mid/senior programmers: 8,000 – 20,000 RON
  • (Usually requires specialized education and experience.)
Daily life in Romania

Approximate costs

  • Studio apartment rental in a big city: 1,500 – 2,500 RON
  • Food/month: 800 – 1,500 RON
  • Public transport: 80 – 150 RON
  • Phone card: 25 – 40 RON

Language

  • Romanian is the official language.
  • In the cities, many young people speak English.
  • It is very useful to learn basic Romanian phrases.

Culture and hospitality

  • Romanians are friendly and appreciate respect.
  • Work and punctuality are important.
  • Passport and residence permit must be kept up to date.
Tips for quick adaptation
  • Know your rights and obligations as an employee.
  • Always ask for an employment contract – it is mandatory.
  • Do not accept salaries without documents.
  • Find out about the city you will be living in before you arrive.
  • Learn a few Romanian words – it helps a lot with integration.

Guide for non-EU workers coming to Romania