Romania: Travel Requirements, Health & Medical Insurance
Romania is a European Union member and, since January 2025, has been a full part of the Schengen Area after checks were lifted at its land borders (air and sea entry without checks had already been in place since 2024). The visa requirement depends on each traveler's passport. The official language is Romanian, and the currency remains the Romanian leu (RON), since the country hasn't yet adopted the euro.
The public health system is decent in major cities but inconsistent in rural areas, so travel insurance that allows access to private clinics is recommended. The emergency number is 112 throughout the country.
Visa and health for travelers
Visa: Romania is a European Union member and, since 2025, applies the Schengen Area in full; the visa requirement depends on the traveler's passport.
Health & travel insurance: Public care is inconsistent outside major cities; insurance that provides access to private clinics is recommended.
Visa and entry requirements
As a Schengen country, passports that require a visa must apply for one with a flight booking, accommodation, and travel insurance covering at least 30,000 EUR in medical costs. Exempt nationalities can stay up to 90 days within a 180-day period, counting time across the entire Schengen Area.
- Passport valid for at least 3 months after the planned departure date.
- Proof of accommodation and sufficient funds.
- Travel insurance with the minimum coverage if your nationality requires a visa.
Health, hospitals, and medical insurance
Public hospitals in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and other major cities handle emergencies, but quality and equipment vary compared to private clinics, which international visitors tend to prefer when the situation allows.
Assist-365 covers hospitalization, COVID-19, and 24-hour medical assistance in Romania, with a certificate valid to support the Schengen visa; the code MEDALLOADV2023 gives a discount when you get a quote.
Transport and currency
The currency is the Romanian leu (RON); Romania hasn't adopted the euro yet, so it's best to exchange money or withdraw from local ATMs on arrival. Trains connect the main cities, though travel times can be longer than in Western Europe.
When to travel
Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for touring Transylvania and its castles. Summer is high season on the Black Sea coast, while winter draws those looking to ski in the Carpathians.
Travel checklist for Romania
Quick list based on this guide's real data (not generic) before traveling to Romania.
- Check the visa requirement for Romania based on your passport: Romania is a European Union member and, since 2025, applies the Schengen Area in full; the visa requirement depends on the traveler's passport.
- Passport valid for at least 6 months from the entry date
- Travel medical insurance arranged, keeping this in mind: Public care is inconsistent outside major cities; insurance that provides access to private clinics is recommended.
- Save Romania's emergency number: 112, along with your insurer's contact
- Cash or a no-fee card in Romanian leu (RON)
- Physical and digital copies of passport, insurance and bookings
- Required or recommended vaccines up to date for the region
- eSIM or international data plan active on arrival
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Romania part of the Schengen Area?
Yes, since January 2025 it applies fully, including land borders; the visa requirement depends on each traveler's passport.
What is the emergency number in Romania?
112, valid throughout the country for police, fire, and ambulance.
Does Romania use the euro?
No, the official currency is the Romanian leu (RON); the country isn't part of the eurozone yet.
Are public hospitals in Romania good for tourists?
They handle emergencies, but many visitors prefer private clinics for better equipment; travel insurance makes access to them easier.
