Finding Accommodation as an International Driver

Introduction: From Dubai’s Skyline to Romania’s Motorways

Relocating from Dubai to Romania to grow your driving career is a bold, smart move. Romania offers a gateway to the European logistics market, competitive routes into Central and Western Europe, and a lower cost of living compared to many EU countries. But to make your transition smooth, you need one crucial foundation from day one: reliable accommodation.

If you’re a professional driver, your housing needs are unique. You might start with irregular shifts, induction training, or depot-based rotations. You may spend weeks on the road and return for short rest periods. You also need a legal address for your work permit and residence paperwork. The good news is that Romania’s rental market is relatively accessible, and with the right plan, you can secure affordable, convenient housing close to key logistics hubs and transport corridors.

This guide is a practical, step-by-step playbook tailored for drivers in Dubai heading to Romania. We’ll demystify the Romanian rental landscape, show you where to live to cut commute times, explain lease contracts and proof-of-address rules, outline budgets, and cover cultural and seasonal considerations (yes, winters are real here—and you can prepare). We’ll also include industry insights on routes and employers, best practices to avoid common pitfalls, and a relocation action plan you can start today.

Whether you’re joining a Bucharest-Ilfov fleet dispatching trucks along A1 toward Hungary, or you’ll be based in Timișoara, Cluj, Iași, Arad, Oradea, or Constanța, this guide will help you secure the right roof over your head—and build a stable base for your European driving career.

Understanding the Romanian Rental Landscape

Key rental terms you’ll hear

Garsonieră: Studio apartment (one room plus kitchen area and bathroom). Affordable and popular for single tenants.
Apartament 2 camere: Literally “2 rooms” (often a one-bedroom apartment with a separate living room). Ideal if you want extra space or occasional family visits.
Apartament 3 camere: Typically two bedrooms plus living room. Good for sharing with another driver to split costs.
Casă/Vilă: House, often in suburban or rural areas. Consider this if you’re bringing family and have a stable schedule.
Chirie: Rent.
Garanție: Security deposit—usually one month’s rent (sometimes two for furnished places or if you have pets).
Contract de închiriere: Lease agreement.
Întreținere: Monthly building/association fees, often including common area cleaning, garbage, sometimes heating/water if building is centrally supplied.

Typical costs (ballpark ranges)

Note: Rents vary by city, neighborhood, and season. These are indicative ranges for 2024–2025.

Bucharest (capital, most job opportunities):
- Studio: €300–€450/month
- 1-bedroom: €400–€650/month
- 2-bedroom: €550–€850+/month
Cluj-Napoca (tech/logistics hub, pricier):
- Studio: €350–€550
- 1-bedroom: €450–€700
Timișoara, Iași, Constanța:
- Studio: €300–€450
- 1-bedroom: €350–€550
Arad, Oradea, Pitești, Ploiești, Sibiu, Brașov, Deva:
- Studio: €280–€420
- 1-bedroom: €320–€500

Utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet) typically add €80–€150/month depending on apartment size, usage, and season. Winter heating can push this higher if the building is poorly insulated.

Furnished vs. unfurnished

Furnished apartments are common, especially studios and 1-bedrooms in cities. Expect basic furniture, appliances, and sometimes kitchenware.
Unfurnished options cost less but require investment. Great for long-term stays or family relocation.
Ask for a handover protocol (proces-verbal de predare-primire) listing inventory and meter readings.

Lease lengths and flexibility

Standard leases range from 6 to 12 months, often renewable. Month-to-month arrangements exist but are less common and may be pricier.
Many landlords prefer stable tenants with work contracts. International drivers with a signed Romanian job offer are usually welcomed.

How payments and paperwork work

Deposit: 1–2 months’ rent up front, returned at end if no damages.
First month’s rent due at signing.
Agent commission (if used): typically 50% to 100% of one month’s rent (charged once).
Receipts: Always ask for a receipt (chitanță) or bank transfer proof.
Contract registration: Landlords are required to register leases with ANAF (Romanian tax authority). Ask for proof. You’ll often need a registered lease for immigration/residence procedures.

Where to Live: Romania’s Driver-Friendly Hubs

Choosing a base close to your depot or main motorway can dramatically cut commute times, reduce fatigue, and simplify your life between routes.

Bucharest–Ilfov: The country’s logistics epicenter

Why base here: Largest number of fleets, forwarders, and warehouses. Major depots near Chitila, Mogoșoaia, Ștefăneștii de Jos, Afumați, and the A1/A2 corridors.
Motorways: A1 (west toward Pitești–Sibiu–Deva–Timișoara–Nădlac-Hungary), A2 (east to Constanța), A3 segments northbound; Bucharest Ring (DNCB) and the new A0 orbital sections.
Neighborhoods to consider: Militari–Chiajna (A1 access), Chitila–Mogoșoaia (north-west depots), Pantelimon/Voluntari–Ștefănești (north-east), Popești-Leordeni (south-east, good value), Bragadiru (south-west). These Ilfov suburbs offer faster warehouse access than downtown.
Rent vibe: Wide range; you pay more closer to metro lines. For drivers, proximity to ring roads often matters more than city center convenience.

Timișoara & Arad: Western gateways to Hungary and the EU core

Why base here: Quick access to Hungary via Nădlac. Busy cross-border traffic; many international carriers operate here.
Motorways: A1 to Nădlac; E70 corridors.
Neighborhoods: In Timișoara, look at Ghiroda/Giarmata (near airport and industrial estates) or Fabrica for value; in Arad, consider areas with easy access to A1.
Market note: Generally more affordable than Bucharest; ideal for long-haul West Europe rotations.

Cluj-Napoca & Apahida/Jucu corridor

Why base here: Growing logistics ecosystem; access to Transylvania routes to Hungary via Borș II and Petea.
Motorways: A3 segments; DN1/E81; E60 westward.
Neighborhoods: Mărăști, Gheorgheni (city access), Apahida or Jucu if you want to be near depots.
Costs: Higher than most cities; plan accordingly.

Oradea: Rising cross-border hub

Why base here: Proximity to Hungary (Borș II). New logistics parks, secure truck parking, improving infrastructure.
Motorways: A3 connection progressing; E60 west.
Housing: Good value; stable rental market.

Iași, Suceava, and the North-East

Why base here: Regional distribution, domestic routes; some international operations via Poland and Slovakia.
Caution: International westbound rotations may require repositioning to western hubs.
Pros: Affordable rents, strong university cities (Iași) with services in English.

Constanța and the Port axis

Why base here: Sea freight connections; container and bulk movement; A2 to Bucharest.
Neighborhoods: Tomis Nord, Faleza Nord, or suburban Ovidiu/Năvodari for value if you have a car.

Sibiu/Deva/Brașov/Pitești/Ploiești: Central manufacturing & distribution spine

Why base here: Many warehouses along A1 and DN1; good for domestic and regional shuttles.
Examples: Pitești (automotive), Ploiești West Park (FMCG), Sibiu and Deva (A1 corridor), Brașov (DN1, E574).

How to Find and Secure Housing from Dubai

Channels that work

Property portals: Imobiliare.ro, Storia.ro, OLX.ro, Publi24.ro. These are the main sites for rentals.
Facebook groups: Search “Chirii [City]” or “Expats [City] Romania.” Join groups in Bucharest, Cluj, Timișoara, and your hub city.
Agencies: A good agent can pre-filter options, negotiate, and push for a contract that fits your immigration needs. Expect a commission.
Employer support: Many large fleets help with temporary housing during induction or provide contact lists for trusted landlords near depots. Ask your HR/dispatch.

Remote viewing and due diligence

Video tours: Request a live video call to inspect appliances, windows (double-glazed “termopan”), heating system, and condition.
Verify ownership: Ask for owner’s ID (blurred is fine) and property details (cadastral number). Beware of middlemen without authorization.
Contract details: Ensure the contract includes your full name (as in passport), rental address, duration, rent amount, deposit, included utilities, and the landlord’s obligation to register with ANAF.
Immigration suitability: Confirm you can use the address as proof of accommodation for your residence permit (dovada spațiului de locuit). If needed, request a notarized statement of accommodation (declarație de luare în spațiu) from the owner.

Negotiation tips

Offer stability: Landlords value a signed Romanian employment contract. If you have one, mention it.
Ask for bundled utilities: Some landlords will include internet or association fees for a modest premium.
Furnishing flexibility: If unfurnished, negotiate installation of essentials (washing machine, stove) or a small rent discount.
Payment schedule: Propose bank transfers on a fixed date, preferred by many landlords.

Short-term start, long-term plan

Arrival phase (first 2–4 weeks): Book a serviced studio (garsonieră în regim hotelier), Airbnb, or budget hotel near your training depot. This buys time to view places in person.
Mid-term lease: Sign 6–12 months near your base or main corridor.
Long-term optimization: After you settle into your rotation pattern, reconsider location to reduce commute or share a larger apartment to cut costs.

Budgeting, Costs, and Saving Strategies for Drivers

Sample monthly budget (solo driver in Bucharest-Ilfov)

Rent (studio): €350–€450
Utilities (avg): €100–€140 (higher in winter)
Internet/mobile: €10–€25 (Digi, Orange, Vodafone)
Transport (local): €20–€40 (if using public transport occasionally)
Groceries/essentials: €150–€250
Miscellaneous (laundry, small repairs): €30–€60

Total: €660–€965 per month. In smaller cities, reduce rent/utilities by €100–€200.

Proven saving tactics

Share housing with another driver: Two-bedroom split can cost less than solo studio living.
Live near your depot: Cut daily travel; in Romania, ring-road traffic can be heavy at peak times.
Choose energy-efficient buildings: Check for insulated façades and double-glazed windows to reduce winter bills.
Use Digi for internet: Widely available and cheaper than most alternatives.
Cook at home: Dining out is affordable by Western standards but adds up; local markets are good value.

Truck-friendly living considerations

Parking: You generally cannot park heavy trucks on city residential streets. Identify secure truck parks near A1/A2/A3 or your depot. In Bucharest-Ilfov, there are guarded lots around Chitila, Militari (A1), and Afumați.
Personal car: If you keep a personal car, check for resident parking permits in your area (parcare de reședință) and use city parking apps (TPark in many cities; local apps in Bucharest).

Legal Must-Knows: Leases, Address Registration, and Immigration

As a non-EU national relocating from Dubai, you will typically follow this path: employer obtains a work permit (aviz de muncă), you apply for a long-stay visa for employment (visa D/AM) at the Romanian consulate, then apply for a residence permit (permis de ședere) inside Romania. For the residence permit, you must prove accommodation.

Using your rental as legal proof of address

You’ll need one of the following for “dovada spațiului de locuit”:

A registered lease contract (contract de închiriere) in your name, or
A notarized declaration from the owner confirming they host you (declarație de luare în spațiu), often used if you are subletting a room or staying with colleagues.

Ensure the document states the full address exactly as shown in property records, includes duration, and is signed by the owner.

ANAF registration of leases

Landlords are obliged to register rental contracts with ANAF, typically within 30 days of signing. This registration supports your immigration application and protects both parties. Politely request proof of registration (confirmation or stamped copy) once available.

What immigration officers typically expect

Valid passport and Romanian long-stay visa.
Work contract and employer documents.
Proof of accommodation (lease or notarized declaration).
Health insurance and tax/social documents as guided by your employer.

Tip: If your employer provides temporary housing, ask HR for a notarized accommodation statement to use for your initial residence permit. Later, you can update your address when you move to a private rental.

Driver licensing and professional qualifications

EU Driver CPC (Code 95): To drive professionally in Romania/EU, you need Driver CPC certification (initial qualification plus periodic training). Many Romanian companies help new hires obtain/convert credentials.
Category C/CE licence: If your licence is from the UAE or another non-EU country, you may need to pass Romanian tests to obtain EU-compliant categories and the Driver Qualification Card. Clarify with your employer and a local driving school in your base city.
Tachograph compliance: Romania follows EU rules (Regulation (EC) 561/2006). Many fleets use smart tachographs (v2). This doesn’t affect your housing, but it shapes your rota and rest periods.

Comfort, Connectivity, and Daily Life Set-Up

Winter readiness

Heating type: Gas boiler (centrală pe gaz) in the apartment offers control but requires ventilation and periodic checks. District heating (Termoenergetica/RADET in Bucharest) means building-managed heat—ask neighbors about reliability.
Insulation: Look for double-glazed windows and insulated façades (you’ll see polystyrene cladding on exterior walls). Poor insulation means higher bills and less comfort.
Hot water: In some buildings with district heating, hot water downtime can occur—clarify before signing.

Internet and mobile

ISPs: Digi (RCS&RDS) is fast and affordable; Orange and Vodafone also provide fixed internet in many areas. Installation often requires a rental contract and ID.
Mobile SIM: Buy with passport at any operator store; prepaid plans are cheap and sufficient to start.

Utilities setup

Electricity and gas: Contracts can remain in the owner’s name with you reimbursing monthly, or be switched to you if staying long-term. Ask for meter readings at move-in and photos of each meter (electricity/gas/water) counters.
Building association: Monthly “întreținere” is posted in stairwell or app. Pay on time to avoid disputes.

Safety and neighborhood checks

Visit at night: Noise and parking realities change after dark.
Ask neighbors: Romanians are friendly; a quick chat can reveal building rules, quiet hours, and issues.
Check commute: Drive or estimate your route to the depot at your usual shift times.

Culture and integration

Language: Romanian is the primary language; English is common in cities. Learn key phrases—landlords and neighbors appreciate it.
Quiet hours: Typically after 10 PM; respect building rules (you’ll see notices labeled “Regulament”).
Payments: Many landlords accept bank transfer; some prefer cash. Keep receipts.

Best Practices and Tips (Romania-Specific)

Prioritize ring-road access over city-center glamour if you’re depot-based; your sleep and commute matter more than a trendy postcode.
Insist on a written lease and proof of ANAF registration—vital for residence permit and avoiding disputes.
Ask explicitly if you can use the address for immigration. If not, request a notarized hosting declaration from the owner.
Verify heating type and insulation—biggest factor in winter comfort and bills.
Choose buildings with good lift maintenance if carrying gear; check stairwells for cleanliness as a proxy for management quality.
For short rotations (on/off), consider a shared apartment with another driver on opposite schedules to cut rent in half.
Use local portals (Imobiliare.ro, Storia.ro, OLX.ro) and filter for your exact depot suburb (Ilfov localities like Chitila, Popești-Leordeni, Voluntari, Bragadiru).
Don’t pay deposits before viewing or verifying the owner. Watch for “too good to be true” listings.
If you plan to bring family later, choose a school-friendly neighborhood now—Bucharest (Pipera/Voluntari, Tineretului), Cluj (Gheorgheni, Mărăști), Timișoara (Giroc, Dumbrăvița).
Ask your fleet about driver housing partnerships; some maintain lists of landlords near depots or offer temporary dorm-style rooms during induction.

Common Challenges and Solutions (Dubai-to-Romania)

Challenge: “I don’t have a CNP (Romanian personal numeric code) yet—can I rent?”
- Solution: Yes. You can rent with your passport and visa. For utilities or internet, the owner can keep contracts in their name initially. Use the lease/notarized hosting declaration for your residence permit; you’ll receive a CNP afterward.
Challenge: “Seasonal rent spikes in September (university intake) make prices jump.”
- Solution: If possible, arrive in late summer or target suburbs less affected by student demand. Negotiate a longer lease to lock in rates.
Challenge: “Cold winters are new to me.”
- Solution: Prioritize insulation, test radiators/boilers during viewing, buy a small dehumidifier for comfort, and budget more for utilities November–March.
Challenge: “I’ll be away for weeks—how to manage bills and safety?”
- Solution: Set up automatic bank transfers. Ask a neighbor or colleague to check your mailbox and apartment occasionally. Use smart plugs and turn off water/gas when away long periods (if safe and practical).
Challenge: “Language barriers with landlords.”
- Solution: Request a bilingual lease or use a sworn translator (traducător autorizat). Many agents can prepare English–Romanian contracts.
Challenge: “Can’t find parking for my personal car near home.”
- Solution: Ask about resident parking permits from the local city hall (Primărie) and use city parking apps. Choose buildings with dedicated spots where possible.
Challenge: “Scams and fake listings.”
- Solution: Avoid advance payments, verify ownership, meet at the property, and insist on a signed lease with IDs checked. Use reputable agencies if uncertain.

Industry Insights: Romania’s Trucking and Logistics Landscape

Romania is one of Eastern Europe’s logistics engines. For international drivers, that means more job options, varied routes, and a path into EU-wide operations.

Key corridors and border points:
- A1: Bucharest–Pitești–Sibiu–Deva–Timișoara–Nădlac (Hungary). Primary westbound artery for EU freight.
- A2: Bucharest–Constanța. Container and port-related flows.
- DN1/E60/E81: Transylvania spine connecting Bucharest–Ploiești–Brașov–Sibiu–Cluj and onward to Oradea/Borș II.
- Border crossings: Nădlac II, Borș II, Petea (to Hungary), and Giurgiulești for Moldova-related flows. Expect checks at land borders; plan rest and queue time.
Representative logistics and carrier ecosystem:
- Large and mid-sized operators include companies such as Dumagas, International Alexander, Aquila, E van Wijk Romania, Carrion Expedition, DSV Romania, DB Schenker Romania, FAN Courier (domestic), and various regional fleets clustered around Bucharest-Ilfov, Timișoara/Arad, Cluj, and Oradea.
- Many fleets run mixed domestic/international routes, giving you exposure to EU markets.
Work patterns and pay structure:
- International long-haul drivers often receive a base salary plus daily per diem (diurnă) for days spent abroad, within legal non-taxable limits. Exact figures vary by company, routes, and experience.
- Rotations can be 3–6 weeks on, 1–2 weeks off, or similar—housing near your depot makes time-off more restful and cost-effective.
EU compliance culture:
- Romania enforces EU driving time and rest rules. ISCTR (Inspectoratul de Stat pentru Controlul în Transportul Rutier) conducts roadside checks, and fleets equip vehicles with smart tachographs. Expect a professional compliance mindset—an advantage for your long-term career.
Market direction:
- Ongoing investments in A0 Bucharest Orbital and A7 (Moldova region) will further reshape commuting and depot locations over the next few years.

Practical Action Steps: Your Dubai-to-Romania Accommodation Plan

Clarify your base city and depot address with your Romanian employer.
- Ask for the exact address and shift patterns. Identify nearest motorway exits and truck parks.
Define your housing priorities.
- Choose between solo studio, shared 2-bedroom with a colleague, or temporary employer housing.
Research neighborhoods within 20–30 minutes of your depot.
- For Bucharest: Militari–Chiajna (A1), Chitila–Mogoșoaia (Northwest), Ștefănești–Voluntari (Northeast), Popești-Leordeni (Southeast), Bragadiru (Southwest).
- For Timișoara/Arad: Ghiroda/Giarmata (industrial parks), Arad zones near A1 access.
- For Cluj: Mărăști/Gheorgheni (city) or Apahida/Jucu for depot proximity.
Shortlist 6–10 rentals from Imobiliare.ro, Storia.ro, and OLX.ro.
- Contact landlords/agents. Request live video tours and copies of draft contracts.
Confirm immigration suitability.
- Ensure your lease or a notarized hosting declaration can serve as proof of accommodation.
Secure temporary accommodation for arrival.
- Book 2–4 weeks near your depot for induction and apartment viewings.
Schedule in-person viewings for top choices.
- Inspect heating, windows, appliances, and test water pressure. Drive the route to your depot at your typical shift time.
Negotiate and sign.
- Agree on rent, deposit, move-in date, included utilities, and minor repairs. Sign the lease and get a receipt for any payments.
Ask the landlord to register the lease with ANAF and share confirmation.
- Keep a copy for your residence permit application.
Set up essentials in the first week.

Internet (Digi/Orange/Vodafone), local SIM, bill payment method, and shopping for winter-ready bedding if moving in cold season.

Prepare a “long-absence” checklist for route rotations.

Turn off water/gas if recommended, unplug appliances, check windows, set up auto-pay for bills.

Reassess after 3 months.

If commute or costs are high, consider moving closer to your depot or sharing with a colleague.

Conclusion: Build Your Base, Boost Your Career

Your accommodation isn’t just a place to sleep—it’s your foundation for a sustainable driving career in Romania and the wider EU market. With the right neighborhood, a solid lease, winter-ready comfort, and a smart budget, you’ll reduce stress, improve rest quality, and enjoy life off the road. Start by picking a hub aligned with your routes, lock in a compliant lease for your residence permit, and shape your home around the realities of a driver’s schedule.

If Romania is your next step after Dubai, now is the time to plan your housing, align it with your depot, and secure that all-important proof of address. Use the action checklist above, talk to your employer’s HR or dispatch about driver-friendly landlords, and book short-term accommodation for arrival. Then sign a lease that works for your life on the move—and step confidently into the European logistics arena.

FAQ: Working and Living in Romania as a Driver

1) Can I rent an apartment in Romania without a CNP or residence permit?

Yes. You can sign a lease with your passport and visa. Many landlords are used to accommodating non-EU tenants, especially near logistics hubs. For your residence permit, use the lease or a notarized hosting declaration as proof of accommodation. Once you obtain your residence permit, you’ll receive a CNP.

2) How much should I budget for housing as a single driver in Bucharest-Ilfov?

For a studio near logistics corridors, plan €350–€450 for rent plus €100–€140 for average utilities. Sharing a two-bedroom with another driver can bring your share to €300–€450 all-in, depending on location and season. Suburbs like Chiajna, Bragadiru, Voluntari, and Popești-Leordeni offer better value than central areas.

3) Are short-term rentals acceptable for the residence permit?

Often yes—provided the owner gives a proper lease or a notarized hosting statement. For initial setup, many drivers use employer-provided addresses or serviced apartments and switch to a longer lease after induction. Always confirm with your employer and the local Inspectorate for Immigration about acceptable documents.

4) What are the most driver-friendly cities if my routes go to Western Europe?

Timișoara, Arad, Oradea, and Cluj-Napoca are excellent for westbound operations due to proximity to Hungarian borders (Nădlac II, Borș II). If you’re in a Bucharest-based fleet, living in Ilfov suburbs with quick A1 access (Militari–Chiajna, Chitila) is efficient for westbound dispatches.

5) Do Romanian landlords usually include utilities in the rent?

It varies. Some include building fees and internet; electricity, gas, and water are commonly separate. Clarify in writing who pays what, how readings are taken, and the payment method. In winter, heating can be the biggest variable—understand the system and expected costs before signing.

6) Is it safe and legal to park my truck near my apartment?

Parking heavy goods vehicles on residential streets is generally restricted in cities and can lead to fines or complaints. Use secure truck parks or your company’s depot parking. For a personal car, check resident permit availability and local parking rules.

7) Will my UAE commercial driving licence work in Romania?

For professional driving, you need EU-compliant qualifications: Category C/CE and Driver CPC (Code 95). If your licence is non-EU, expect to complete conversion or testing in Romania and obtain a Driver Qualification Card. Many employers guide new hires through this process; ask your HR for a timeline and any sponsored training.

By planning your accommodation early and aligning it with your routes and legal requirements, you set yourself up for success in Romania’s fast-moving logistics market. From Dubai to Bucharest, Cluj, Timișoara, or Oradea, your next safe, efficient home base is within reach—secure it, then hit the road with confidence.