Romania

Quick Overview

Capital: Bucharest
Population: 19.64 million
Official language: Romanian
Time zone: Eastern European Time (EET), Eastern European Summer Time (EEST)
Emergency #: 112
Vaccinations required: No
Risk of malaria: No
Climate Info

Romania: Travel Health Information

Romania is known for its cultural history, including medieval buildings and towns in the popular region of Transylvania. Travellers can also explore various scenic landscapes such as the Carpathian Mountains and beaches along the Black Sea.

Healthcare

The standards for patient care and medical services in Romania may differ from your home country. Romania has a public health system and a large private sector. Healthcare in major cities typically meets international standards but may be inadequate throughout the rest of the country. Health services vary by region and may be less accessible in rural regions. On average, Romania has a low number of physicians which may lead to long wait times.

In the event of a medical emergency, contact your travel health insurance company immediately. Hospitals in Romania typically require upfront payment in cash or credit card, regardless if you have travel health insurance. Evacuation to Western Europe may be required for serious health emergencies. Ensure that you have accessible funds to cover upfront fees and adequate travel health insurance, including evacuation. Before you depart, check with your insurer about the extent of their coverage in Romania.

Pharmacies and medications

Pharmacies are widely available in major cities. Some medications require a prescription from a doctor and cannot be purchased without one. Pharmacists are trained and licensed.

If you are travelling with medication, check with Romania’s embassy, consulate, or Ministry of Health for details on medication allowances and restrictions. Note that these sources may provide incomplete or out-of-date information.

Road safety

Road safety and road conditions pose a challenge for Romania. The country reports the most traffic deaths on average in the EU so caution should be taken as a pedestrian and while driving. Seat belts must be worn by all passengers at all times. Helmets are mandatory for motorcycle drivers and passengers.


  • Cristian Vladescu, Silvia Gabriela Scîntee, Victor Olsavszky, Cristina Hernández-Quevedo, Anna Sagan. Health Systems in Transition: Romania. European Observatory. (2016).
  • World Bank. Romania must act decisively to improve road safety, says World Bank. World Bank. (2017).
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