Relocating Your Family for an International Plumbing Career

Introduction

If you are a professional plumber in Global and you are weighing a move to Romania, you are not alone. Romania is an increasingly attractive destination for skilled tradespeople. The country combines steady demand for plumbing and building services with lower living costs, an EU setting, and a family-friendly pace of life. For many, it is the right balance of professional opportunity and everyday comfort.

This guide is written for plumbers who want to relocate to Romania with their families. It breaks down the practical steps you will take from job hunting and visas to settling your spouse and children with schools and healthcare. You will learn what certifications you need, how to navigate Romanian standards, how much you can earn, where to live in cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi, and how to integrate quickly on and off the job.

Whether your motivation is better wages relative to the cost of living, access to the broader European market, or a safe, friendly environment for your family, this is your playbook for a smooth landing.

Why Romania?

Romania offers a compelling mix of factors that matter to working plumbers and their families:

EU Membership: Romania is in the European Union, aligning most technical standards with EU norms and making your work experience relevant across the bloc. While non-EU citizens still need visas and permits, being inside the EU means predictable standards, broad supplier networks, and potential future mobility.
Competitive Costs: Salaries for experienced plumbers are increasingly competitive, while everyday costs remain below many Western European capitals. The gap between pay and expenses can translate into real savings for your family.
Stable Demand: A steady pipeline of construction, industrial upgrades, and residential renovation creates consistent demand for plumbing, heating, and gas-fitting specialists. EU funds channel into energy efficiency, heating system modernization, and infrastructure projects across major cities.
Quality of Life: Romania blends traditional family values with modern amenities. Parks, mountains, and the Black Sea are within reach, and cities have good transport, shopping, and international schools. Healthcare access is broad, and private clinics are affordable compared to many countries.

Job Market Overview

Romania's construction and building services sector is diverse. Plumbers find work in residential, commercial, and industrial settings, as well as in facility maintenance.

Where the jobs are

Bucharest: The capital is the epicenter for commercial towers, luxury residential, retail centers, and district heating upgrades. Facility management and utilities also cluster here.
Cluj-Napoca: A tech and university city with sustained residential development, office refurbishments, and healthcare facility upgrades.
Timisoara: A manufacturing hub with industrial installations, logistics centers, and residential growth. Expect mechanical room retrofits, compressed air and process water piping, and heating system upgrades.
Iasi: Strong public sector projects, hospitals, and university buildings. Residential renovations are steady.
Brasov, Sibiu, Constanta, Ploiesti, Craiova: Secondary cities with notable industrial or energy-related work. Constanta's port and refineries, Ploiesti's oil and gas, and Brasov's manufacturing all drive technical installations.

Typical employers

Construction companies and general contractors executing large-scale builds.
Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) subcontractors focused on installations and commissioning.
Facility management firms handling ongoing maintenance in offices, malls, and hospitals.
Utilities and energy service providers working on district heating, gas networks, and metering.

Many international firms and local leaders operate in Romania's market. Without endorsing any specific employer, expect to see opportunities at facility managers like CBRE, ISS, or Sodexo; utilities like Engie Romania, E.ON Romania, or Veolia; and large MEP or general contractors with regional footprints. Distributors and wholesalers such as Romstal, Valrom, and retailers like Dedeman, Leroy Merlin, and Hornbach are central to the supply chain.

In-demand skills

Sanitary installations: Potable water distribution, waste and vent systems, and fixture installation to EU standards.
Heating systems: Hydronic systems, radiator circuits, underfloor heating, and heat pump integration.
Gas fitting: Installation and maintenance of gas pipelines and appliances. Authorized installers are limited, creating premium demand.
Industrial installations: Compressed air, process water, drainage for factories, and technical room piping.
Renovation and retrofits: Press-fitting for copper and stainless, PEX and PPR systems, and balancing existing circuits.
Commissioning and maintenance: Preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and control integration with building management systems.

Certifications that add value

EU-recognized vocational qualifications and documented experience.
ISCIR-related authorizations for boilers and pressure equipment supervision where relevant.
ANRE-related installer authorization for gas installations through an employer or company that holds these authorizations.
Safety training in Romanian standards: SSM (occupational health and safety) and fire prevention.

Legal Requirements

For non-EU citizens relocating from Global to Romania, you will need a job offer and a work authorization before you can move with your family. Plan for a 3 to 6 month process.

Step 1: Employer obtains work authorization

The Romanian employer applies for your work authorization with the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI). Romania sets an annual quota for non-EU workers, and employers must show they could not fill the role locally.
You will supply: passport copies, proof of qualifications, CV, police clearance from your country of residence, medical fitness statement, and other documents the employer requests. Translation and legalization (apostille) are often required.
Once approved, IGI issues the work authorization certificate that allows you to apply for a visa.

Step 2: Apply for a long-stay visa for employment

Visa type: Long-stay visa for employment (commonly referred to as D/AM).
Where: Romanian embassy or consulate in your country of residence.
Documents: Work authorization, employment contract or firm offer, valid passport, proof of accommodation (hotel booking or rental), travel medical insurance for the visa period, police clearance, proof of funds.
Processing time: Typically a few weeks, but allow for delays.

Step 3: Enter Romania and apply for residence (Single Permit)

After arrival with your D/AM visa, submit your application for a residence permit (Single Permit for work) at IGI within the legal window, commonly up to 90 days from entry. Check the exact deadline on your visa.
You will provide the signed employment contract, proof of accommodation, medical insurance, and biometrics. IGI issues a residence card that confirms your right to live and work.

Bringing your family

Family reunification: Your spouse and dependent children usually apply for a long-stay visa for family reunification after you have obtained your residence permit. This is often referred to as D/VF, based on your status.
Documents: Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, children's birth certificates), proof of sufficient income and accommodation, medical insurance, and police clearances.
Processing time: Several weeks to a few months. Coordinate timing to minimize separation.
Work rights for spouse: Rules vary. Plan on your spouse needing their own job offer and work authorization to work legally, unless they qualify under a special category. Confirm requirements with IGI.

Note: Immigration rules change. Always verify current requirements with the Romanian General Inspectorate for Immigration and the Romanian consulate.

Certification and License Recognition

Romania aligns with EU standards but requires local recognition of skills and authorizations, especially for gas and pressure equipment.

Recognizing your trade qualification

National Qualifications Authority (ANC): This body oversees the Romanian framework for vocational qualifications. As a plumber, you can validate your foreign certificate or have your practical skills assessed at an authorized center.
Pathways:
1. Equivalency of your diploma or trade certificate into a Romanian qualification (calificare) at the appropriate level.
2. Competency assessment: If you have experience but not formal diplomas, assessment centers can test and certify your skills against Romanian occupational standards.
Documents typically required: Diplomas, certificates, transcripts, employer reference letters, detailed CV, and translations by a sworn translator. Some documents may need an apostille or legalization.

Gas fitting and pressure equipment

ANRE installer authorization: Companies and professionals working on natural gas installations must be authorized under ANRE rules. In practice, you will perform gas work under an employer that holds the ANRE authorization. Some roles require you to pass specific exams or modules.
ISCIR: This authority supervises the use of boilers, pressure vessels, and similar equipment. Roles such as boiler operator or pressure equipment supervision (RSVTI) require official authorization and periodical training. If your work includes commissioning or operating pressurized heating systems or hot water boilers, confirm whether an ISCIR authorization is needed.

Safety training

SSM (Occupational Health and Safety): Expect an induction and periodic training in Romanian standards when you join an employer.
Fire safety (SU or PSI): Training on fire risks, extinguishers, and emergency procedures is commonly required on construction sites and in facilities.
First aid: Some employers provide or require basic certification.

Materials and technical standards

Romania adopts many EN standards as SR EN (Romanian standards). The Romanian Normative for sanitary and heating installations, together with building codes and local municipal rules, govern installations.
Common materials: PEX, PPR, copper (with press fittings), steel (threaded or welded), PVC and PP-R for drains, and stainless systems in industrial settings.
Threads and fittings: BSP threads are common. NPT fittings are not standard; carry or source adaptors. Expect metric sizing on tools and materials.

Tip: Join an employer known for training foreign hires. They will onboard you into Romanian standards, help with exams, and guide you through documentation.

Salary and Benefits

Salaries vary by city, experience, specialization (e.g., gas fitting or industrial work), and employer type.

Currency: 1 EUR is roughly 5 RON. Salaries are typically paid in RON.
Hourly rates: 30 to 60 RON per hour for experienced plumbers, higher for specialized industrial or gas roles.
Monthly net pay:
- Skilled plumber: 4,500 to 7,500 RON net per month (approx. 900 to 1,500 EUR).
- Senior with gas authorization or industrial commissioning: 7,000 to 10,000 RON net (approx. 1,400 to 2,000 EUR), sometimes more with overtime and per diems.
- Site leads or foremen in major cities: 8,000 to 12,000 RON net depending on scope and overtime.

Benefits and extras you may negotiate:

Meal vouchers: 30 to 40 RON per working day is common.
Overtime: Often paid at a premium, especially on projects.
Per diem: For out-of-town assignments, daily per diem and accommodation are standard.
Transport or fuel allowance: Some employers offer these for site travel.
Private health insurance: Popular in the corporate and facility management sectors.
Seasonal bonuses: Holiday bonus or performance-based bonuses.

Taxes and deductions overview (illustrative):

Employee social contributions and income tax are withheld from gross salary. Expect a meaningful gap between gross and net, with net often around 55 to 65 percent of gross depending on specific contributions and allowances. Employer contributions also apply.
Always negotiate based on net pay for clarity, and ask HR for a gross-to-net simulation.

Cost of Living

Romania's cost of living is favorable compared with many Western countries. Your budget depends on city and lifestyle.

Housing (monthly rent)

Bucharest:
- 1-bedroom outside center: 450 to 650 EUR
- 1-bedroom center or expat areas: 650 to 900 EUR
- 2-bedroom family apartment: 800 to 1,300 EUR
Cluj-Napoca:
- 1-bedroom: 500 to 750 EUR
- 2-bedroom: 700 to 1,100 EUR
Timisoara:
- 1-bedroom: 400 to 600 EUR
- 2-bedroom: 600 to 900 EUR
Iasi:
- 1-bedroom: 350 to 550 EUR
- 2-bedroom: 550 to 850 EUR

Utilities (for a family apartment): 80 to 180 EUR per month depending on season and building insulation. Gas heating can push winter bills higher.

Transportation

Public transport passes:
- Bucharest integrated monthly pass: around 25 to 30 EUR equivalent.
- Other cities: 10 to 20 EUR per month.
Fuel: Often in the range of 1.4 to 1.7 EUR per liter. Car insurance and road vignette (rovinieta) are required for national roads.
Ride-hailing and taxis are affordable by EU standards.

Groceries and daily expenses

Family of four, groceries: 400 to 700 EUR per month depending on diet and shopping habits.
Dining out: Casual meal 7 to 12 EUR per person; mid-range restaurant 15 to 25 EUR per person.
Mobile and internet: 6 to 12 EUR per month for mobile plans; home fiber internet 7 to 15 EUR per month.

Schooling costs

Public schools: Free, Romanian-language instruction.
Private or international schools: 6,000 to 20,000+ EUR per year depending on the school.
Private kindergarten: 200 to 600 EUR per month.

Education and Childcare

Romania's education system offers multiple paths for expat families.

Public schools

Instruction is predominantly in Romanian. Some schools offer intensive Romanian as a second language to help foreign children integrate.
Enrollment requires: child's birth certificate, passport, parents' IDs or residence permits, vaccination records, previous academic transcripts, and proof of local address. Documents must be translated and legalized where required.
Public schools follow a national curriculum with the school year typically from September to June.

International and private options

Bucharest: The widest selection, including English-language and other curricula. Examples include the American International School of Bucharest and the British School of Bucharest.
Cluj-Napoca: Options include Transylvania College, offering international curriculum.
Timisoara and Iasi: Smaller selections, but you will find international or bilingual private schools and kindergartens.
Benefits: Language continuity, familiar curricula, and support for international transitions. Costs are higher and admissions can be competitive, so apply early.

Childcare and after-school

Kindergartens (gradinite) are widely available in both public and private sectors.
After-school programs (after-school) offer homework support and activities for primary students.
Requirements: Medical check-up, vaccination proof, and application forms are standard.

Healthcare Access for Your Family

Romania has a universal healthcare framework supported by contributions. As an employee, your contributions typically grant access to public services. Many expats also use private clinics.

Public system: Register with a family doctor (medic de familie). This doctor refers you to specialists. Emergency services are accessed by dialing 112.
Private providers: Private clinics like Regina Maria, MedLife, and Sanador are widely used for faster appointments and English-speaking staff. Employers often offer private health plans.
Family coverage: Your spouse and children can generally be added as dependents to your health insurance once they have residence status. Confirm the process with your employer's HR and your insurance provider.
Vaccinations: Romania follows EU-aligned schedules. Bring your children's immunization records.

Cultural Integration

Language basics

Romanian is a Romance language. Learning basic Romanian goes a long way on job sites and with neighbors. Start with:

Hello: Buna ziua
Good morning: Buna dimineata
Thank you: Multumesc
Please: Va rog
Yes/No: Da/Nu
Water: Apa
Pipe: Teava
Valve: Robinet
Elbow: Cot
Tee: Teu
Thread: Filet

Your team will appreciate your effort. You will still meet many Romanians who speak English, especially in major cities, but do not assume this on construction sites.

Workplace culture

Punctuality: Show up on time, communicate delays early.
Hierarchy: Respect for supervisors is standard; site leaders make the final call.
Communication: Be direct but polite. Document changes and approvals.
Safety and documentation: Toolbox talks, SSM checklists, and daily permits are common on organized sites. Follow procedures closely.
Breaks and meals: Expect set break times. Meal vouchers are widely used.

Practical Steps to Relocate

Use this action plan to move from research to arrival without missing key steps.

0 to 1 month: Research and positioning

Update your CV: Highlight plumbing specializations, gas fitting experience, safety training, and project types. Include references.
Gather credentials: Diplomas, trade certificates, work references, and a portfolio of major projects. Plan translations.
Identify employers: Focus on MEP contractors, facility managers, and utilities in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi.
Clarify your family's needs: School type, budget, healthcare expectations, and preferred city.

1 to 3 months: Job search and offers

Apply to roles matching your strengths: Sanitary installations, heating systems, gas fitting under ANRE-authorized companies, or industrial piping.
Discuss visa and support: Ask each employer how they handle work permits, residence, and family visas.
Negotiate net salary and benefits: Request a gross-to-net breakdown, overtime rates, per diems, and probation terms.
Request training support: Ask if the employer provides help with Romanian standards, SSM, ISCIR-related training, and language classes.

2 to 5 months: Work authorization and visas

Employer applies for work authorization with IGI.
Prepare your documents: Legalize and translate diplomas, obtain police clearance, and gather medical and financial proofs.
Apply for the D/AM employment visa at the Romanian consulate upon receiving the work authorization.
Plan housing and schools: Start shortlisting neighborhoods and schools. Reserve temporary accommodation for arrival.

Arrival and first 30 days

Residence permit: Attend your IGI appointment for biometrics and submit for your Single Permit card.
Company onboarding: SSM induction, medical exam, fire safety training, site access badge.
Bank account: Open RON and EUR accounts. Salary is typically paid in RON.
Mobile and internet: Set up SIM cards and home internet promptly.
Family doctor: Register with a family doctor and schedule check-ups.
School enrollment: Finalize placements, submit translated documents, and buy supplies.

1 to 4 months after arrival: Family settlement

Family visas: Support your spouse and children through their D/VF visa applications and residence permits.
Language: Enroll in Romanian classes for you and your spouse. Many cities offer evening programs.
Driving: If you plan to drive, check if your foreign license can be exchanged. If not, plan for the local theory and practical tests. An International Driving Permit can help initially.
Permanent housing: Move from temporary to long-term rental, negotiate utility transfers, and set up heating maintenance checks.

Working to Romanian Standards

Technical differences you will notice

Metric system: All measurements are in millimeters and meters. Plan for metric tape measures, spanners, and drill bits.
Pipe materials: PEX and PPR are dominant in residential; press-fit copper and stainless in commercial. Get comfortable with press tools and compatible jaws.
Thread standards: BSPP/BSPT are common. NPT is rare. Keep adaptors if you bring tools from abroad.
Local code expectations: Clean workmanship, firestopping around penetrations, and acoustic insulation on stacks are enforced on professional sites.
Testing and commissioning: Pressure tests are documented with forms and witness signatures. Check test pressures and durations per spec.

Gas and heating compliance

Gas works are strictly controlled. Installations are performed by ANRE-authorized entities. Expect detailed design documents, permits, and inspections.
Heating systems integrated with boilers or pressure equipment may require ISCIR-certified oversight, especially in commercial and industrial environments.

Documentation habits

As-built drawings and photo logs may be required.
Product data sheets and CE declarations are commonly requested by site engineers.
Keep a personal folder of your training certificates and site inductions.

Logistics Beyond the Job

Banking and money

Banks: Banca Transilvania, ING, and Raiffeisen are widely used in cities. Bring your passport, residence permit (or visa), proof of address, and employment contract.
Accounts: Open a RON account for salary and an EUR account for savings or rent if denominated in EUR.
Payments: Utilities, school fees, and rent usually accept bank transfers. Many landlords prefer bank-to-bank payments.

Driving and vehicles

License: You can typically drive on your foreign license for a limited period after entry. If you hold residence, you may need to exchange your license depending on your country of issue. Where no exchange agreement exists, plan to take local tests.
Insurance: Mandatory third-party liability insurance (RCA). Consider comprehensive (CASCO) for added protection.
Road taxes: Buy a rovinieta for national roads.

Importing tools and household goods

Tools: Romania uses 230V electrical supply with European plugs. Check your power tools are compatible or bring appropriate transformers. Many tradespeople choose to buy or supplement tools locally.
Customs: If you are moving residence, household goods may qualify for relief under certain conditions. Keep inventories and proof of residence status for customs.

Telecom and internet

Mobile: Prepaid and postpaid plans are inexpensive. Coverage is strong in cities and good across most regions.
Internet: Fiber broadband is widely available with fast speeds and low monthly costs.

Where to Live: Neighborhood Tips

Bucharest: Expat-friendly areas include Pipera, Aviatiei, and parts of the north for proximity to international schools. Drumul Taberei and Titan offer family options with parks and metro links.
Cluj-Napoca: Zorilor and Buna Ziua are popular residential areas. Mărăști and Gheorgheni mix convenience and access.
Timisoara: Giroc and Dumbravita are family-friendly with new housing. City center areas offer walkability.
Iasi: Copou and Pacurari provide family amenities and access to schools.

Always check commute times to your work sites or maintenance routes. Public transport reduces stress in central areas, but a car is useful for multi-site roles.

Success Tips From Other Expats

Treat Romanian language as part of your toolkit: Learn job-site vocabulary early. A little language goes a long way with building trust.
Ask your employer to pair you with a local mentor: It accelerates your understanding of codes, suppliers, and paperwork.
Standardize your toolset for metric and BSP: Avoid lost time sourcing adaptors mid-project.
Keep a clean documentation trail: Photos of concealed pipe runs and test certificates protect you during handovers.
Budget for winter utilities: Older buildings can be less efficient. Balance rent vs. insulation and heating costs.
Join local trade communities: Visit suppliers like Romstal or Valrom and ask about technical seminars. The networks lead to better jobs and faster problem solving.
Plan your family's timeline: Aim to time your family's arrival with the start of the school term and after you receive your residence card.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Romania is a smart choice for plumbers who want to grow their careers and improve family life. The market is active, standards are modern, and the cost of living lets your salary go further. With the right preparation, you can navigate work permits, convert your certifications, and settle your spouse and children into schools and healthcare with confidence.

Your next steps:

Shortlist employers in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi that match your specialty.
Prepare your documents for work authorization and recognition of qualifications.
Start Romanian lessons and plan for SSM, ISCIR, and ANRE-related training with your new employer.
Map a family timeline for visas, housing, and school enrollment.

Make your move deliberate and well-documented. If you invest in preparation now, Romania can reward your family with stability, opportunity, and a high quality of life.

FAQ

1) How long does it take to get a Romanian work permit and visa?

Expect 3 to 6 months from job offer to arrival. The employer applies for a work authorization first. After approval, you apply for the D/AM employment visa. Processing times vary by embassy and season.

2) Can my spouse work in Romania?

Your spouse can search for work, but to work legally they generally need their own job offer and authorization unless they qualify under a specific category. Requirements vary by status and nationality. Confirm the latest rules with IGI. Plan on a separate work authorization process for your spouse.

3) What are realistic plumber salaries in Romania?

Experienced plumbers typically earn 4,500 to 7,500 RON net per month, with specialists or foremen earning 7,000 to 12,000 RON net depending on overtime and project type. Gas-fitting and industrial roles tend to pay more.

4) Do I need Romanian certifications to start working?

You must work under Romanian standards. Many employers will onboard you with SSM and site-specific training immediately. For gas installations or pressure equipment roles, ANRE and ISCIR-linked authorizations are required. Employers that hold these authorizations may help you sit the needed exams or assign you tasks within your current authorization scope until you complete training.

5) Are international schools available?

Yes. Bucharest has the widest selection of international schools, while Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi offer several international or bilingual options. Apply early because seats can be limited. Fees range broadly from around 6,000 to 20,000+ EUR per year.

6) What are the main differences in plumbing standards?

Romania follows EU-aligned standards. Expect metric measurements, BSP threads, and common use of PEX, PPR, and press-fit copper or stainless. Documented pressure testing, firestopping, acoustic insulation on stacks, and CE-marked materials are standard on professional sites. NPT threads are uncommon and require adaptors.

7) How does healthcare work for my family?

As an employee, you contribute to the health system through your salary. This generally grants access to public healthcare, and your spouse and children can be added as dependents once they hold residence. Many families also use private clinics for faster appointments. Check with your employer's HR to enroll dependents.

8) How much should we budget for a family in Bucharest?

A realistic monthly budget for a family of four might include: 1,000 EUR for a 2-bedroom rental in a good area, 120 EUR for utilities (higher in winter), 500 to 700 EUR for groceries, 30 EUR for public transport passes, and 20 EUR for mobile and internet. International school fees are extra.

9) What documents should I bring for school enrollment?

Bring children's passports, birth certificates, vaccination records, previous school transcripts and reports, and proof of residence in Romania. All documents should be translated and legalized as required. International schools may also request recommendation letters and entrance assessments.

10) Can I drive my own car to Romania and use it?

Yes, you can drive your car into Romania. Ensure you have valid insurance that covers Romania and a valid vignette (rovinieta) for national roads. If you become a resident, you may need to register the vehicle locally within a specific timeframe. Check the latest rules and consider total costs of registration, inspection, and insurance before deciding.

11) How do I prove my experience if I do not have formal diplomas?

Romania allows competency assessment through authorized centers under the National Qualifications Authority. You can obtain a Romanian competency certificate by demonstrating your skills via tests and practical tasks. Employer reference letters and a project portfolio strengthen your case.

12) What if I get a project in another EU country later?

Experience and certifications gained in Romania, especially where aligned with EU standards, can improve your prospects in other EU markets. However, each country has its own recognition rules for gas and trade authorizations. Keep your training records and CE familiarity up to date, and verify requirements before moving.