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Finding housing in Romania
Finding housing in Romania is easier when you understand the local registration rules. A rental address is often needed for permits, healthcare, school and tax paperwork.
Address registration in Romania
Get CNP + residence card: Apply at your local IGI within 30 days of arrival (non-EU). Book at IGI — Bring passport, visa, rental contract, criminal record from home country. Permis de ședere — Fee ~120 RON; card in 30 days. CNP printed on it. Work permit / EU registration: EU/EEA free. Non-EU need employer-sponsored work permit + long-stay visa. Employer files aviz — At IGI. Once approved you apply for a work D-visa at the consulate. EU registration — EU/EEA get a certificate of registration at IGI after 3 months.
Where to search safely
Use established rental portals, local housing offices, reputable agencies and municipality information pages. Be extra careful with social-media listings. Never send a deposit before you have seen the home, verified the landlord and received a written contract.
Contract and deposit
Check the rent, deposit, utilities, notice period, inventory and whether registration at the address is allowed. In Romania, a home that cannot be registered can block healthcare, school, benefits and residence renewals.
Housing-related offices
Direcția de Evidența Persoanelor: CNP, ID card, address. ANAF — Tax Administration: NIF, tax returns.
Frequently asked questions
Can I register my address in Romania with a temporary room?
Often yes if the landlord or host can provide the required proof, but rules vary locally. Ask the municipality before paying a deposit.
Which office should I contact first in Romania?
Start with Direcția de Evidența Persoanelor. For broader newcomer help, also check IGI — Inspectoratul General pentru Imigrări, Direcția de Evidența Persoanelor, ANAF — Tax Administration.
What language will offices use in Romania?
The main administrative language is Romanian. Larger offices often offer English or interpreters, but bring translated documents when possible.
How large is a typical deposit?
1–3 months of rent is normal across most of Europe. It must be returned when you leave, minus any damage beyond normal wear.
Can a landlord refuse me because I am a newcomer?
Discrimination based on nationality or origin is illegal across the EU. You can report it to national equality bodies.