Daria's Experience Moving to Romania
Daria, a Ukrainian woman, recounts her journey of relocating to Romania, covering the steps to secure temporary protection, find housing, get a SIM card, and open a bank account, along with advice for settling into a new country. She describes the process for obtaining temporary protection in Romania as remarkably straightforward. This account offers practical insights for Ukrainians considering relocation due to ongoing challenges in their home country.
“Getting temporary protection: in Bucharest, it’s incredibly easy. You just need your passport, they take your photo, and within a few hours, you have your document. There are two types: one with an address and one without,” Daria explains.
When registering for temporary protection, Ukrainians receive a residence permit, a CNP (similar to a Ukrainian identification number), and the right to work, access healthcare, and enroll children in school. To apply, you must contact UNHCR (Temporary Government Protection for Ukrainians). In Bucharest, only a passport is required, and the entire process takes just a few hours.
Finding Housing and Adapting
Securing housing in Romania can take several weeks. Daria advises: “Reach out immediately via WhatsApp to companies posting listings. Ask if the apartment is still available and schedule a viewing right away. English is widely understood here, which is a big plus. For instance, we found our apartment after only four viewings. But it might be tougher now, so pursue multiple options at once.”
She highlights these apps for finding accommodation:
- Imobiliare.ro
- Storia
- OLX
After arriving, Daria also got a new SIM card. “While you can still use Ukrainian cards here, you’ll eventually need a Romanian account. For example, our landlord asked for rent in lei, so we had to open a Revolut account within the first month,” she shares.
She recommends these everyday apps:
- 24Pay
- Cfr Călători
- Emag
- Sameday
- Mega Image
- Lidl Plus
Adjusting to a new life is a key part of emigration. “Start looking for communities. There are many Ukrainian chat groups here. Meet people, attend events, and socialize—finding like-minded individuals and eventually friends abroad really helps with adaptation. Don’t be afraid of the language. English will suffice at first, but over time, try to learn at least basic phrases and words,” Daria advises.
Her experience can serve as a guide for other Ukrainians planning to move to Romania. It underscores the importance of understanding the procedures and resources available to immigrants, especially as many Ukrainians seek new opportunities abroad due to the difficult situation in Ukraine. Information on temporary protection, housing access, and social infrastructure can greatly ease the integration process for newcomers.
As Daria navigates her new life in Romania, many Ukrainians are exploring the possibility of obtaining a more permanent status. Understanding how to secure Romanian citizenship can provide significant benefits, including access to better job opportunities and social services. This process, while detailed, offers essential information for those considering a long-term stay in Romania.