Banking and Financial Setup for Expat Plumbers

Introduction

Relocating from Global to Romania as a professional plumber can be one of the smartest career and lifestyle decisions you make. Romania combines strong demand for skilled trades in construction and building services with EU market access, competitive salaries relative to the cost of living, and a welcoming culture. Yet one of the most critical, and often overlooked, success factors is getting your banking and financial setup right from day one.

This guide is written specifically for plumbers moving to Romania. It covers everything you need to know about setting up bank accounts, handling multiple currencies, understanding payroll and taxes, sending money home, and building financial stability while you settle into your new life. We also include broader relocation guidance so you see the full picture: the job market, legal requirements, certifications like ISCIR and gas authorizations, salaries, costs, and cultural integration. By the end, you will have a practical, step-by-step plan to relocate with confidence and get paid on time, every time.

Why Romania?

EU membership and market access

Romania is a member of the European Union, part of the Single Market and the SEPA payments area. That means frictionless bank transfers within the EU, easier recognition of skills, and the ability to collaborate on cross-border projects. If you plan to develop your plumbing career across Europe, basing yourself in Romania gives you a cost-effective hub with access to the broader EU market.

Competitive cost of living

While Romania has modern infrastructure and vibrant cities, it still offers a lower cost of living compared to many Western European countries. Housing, utilities, public transport, and everyday expenses are generally more affordable, allowing you to save more from each paycheck. This affordability gives you flexibility to invest in tools, training, or family needs without stretching your budget.

Growing demand for plumbers

The construction sector in Romania has been active with new builds, industrial facilities, residential renovation, and heating system upgrades. Skilled plumbers who can handle pipe fitting, sanitary installations, hydronic heating, and gas work are in demand. Employers include construction contractors, maintenance firms, facility management companies, and utilities across cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi.

Quality of life

Romania offers a balance of urban convenience and nature. From the Carpathian Mountains to the Black Sea coast, you can enjoy outdoor activities on weekends while benefiting from lively city life during the workweek. The pace is generally more relaxed than major Western capitals, and work-life balance can be easier to achieve if you choose your employer and schedule carefully.

Job Market Overview

Where the work is

• Bucharest: The capital concentrates large construction projects, commercial buildings, hospitals, data centers, high-end residential developments, and complex building services. Facility management and maintenance roles are plentiful.
• Cluj-Napoca: A tech and university city with strong demand for modern residential and commercial fit-outs, retrofit projects, and energy efficiency upgrades.
• Timisoara: Industrial installations, logistics hubs, and manufacturing facilities keep installers and maintenance plumbers busy.
• Iasi: Growing infrastructure, public buildings, and residential expansion create steady opportunities.

Typical employers

• General construction contractors and subcontractors in building services
• Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) firms
• Facility management and maintenance companies
• Utilities and district heating providers
• Real estate developers and property managers
• Industrial engineering and plant maintenance contractors

Types of projects

• New builds: Residential blocks, commercial centers, mixed-use developments
• Renovation and retrofit: Upgrading old pipework, sanitary systems, and bathrooms in older housing stock
• Heating system upgrades: Transitioning to energy-efficient boilers, heat pumps, and hydronic systems
• Industrial installations: Process piping, compressed air lines, steam and hot water systems
• Gas-fitting: Installation and maintenance of natural gas networks and equipment (with proper authorizations)

Skills most in demand

• Pipe fitting in copper, PPR, PVC, steel, multilayer (PEX-AL-PEX)
• Sanitary installations: Bathrooms, kitchens, drainage systems
• Heating systems: Radiators, underfloor heating, boiler rooms, balancing and commissioning
• Gas-fitting: Installation, testing, and certification under ANRE/ISCIR where applicable
• Reading plans, metric system measurements, use of local materials and fittings
• Troubleshooting, preventive maintenance, and client communication

Legal Requirements

The legal path depends on your citizenship.

For EU/EEA/Swiss citizens

• You do not need a visa to work in Romania, but you must register your residence if you stay longer than 3 months.
• Obtain a registration certificate as an EU citizen through the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI).
• Get a Personal Numeric Code (CNP) or tax identification number to work legally and access public services.

For non-EU citizens (Global)

• You typically need a work permit sponsored by a Romanian employer. The employer applies to the Romanian authorities for a work authorization for your position.
• After the work permit is approved, you apply for a long-stay work visa (type D) at a Romanian consulate in your home country.
• Upon arrival, you must obtain a residence permit through IGI within the legal timeframe. Renewals depend on your employment status and contract duration.
• Required documents generally include a valid passport, work permit, employment contract, proof of accommodation, health insurance, and clean criminal record. Requirements can vary by consulate and change over time, so check the latest guidance.

Contracts and employment status

• Most plumbers are hired as employees under a Romanian labor contract registered in the national payroll system.
• Some expats operate as self-employed (PFA) or set up a limited company (SRL) to contract with clients. Each path has distinct tax, insurance, and compliance duties. Consult a licensed accountant before choosing a structure.

Certification & License Recognition

Recognizing your existing qualifications

• If you hold vocational or trade qualifications from abroad, you may need to validate them in Romania. For many plumbing roles, employers recognize experience plus local safety training.
• The National Qualifications Authority (ANC) and relevant sector bodies can advise on equivalence of foreign trade certificates. Employers may accept documented experience and references for general plumbing work.

Gas work and pressure equipment

• Gas installations are tightly regulated. To work on natural gas systems, you typically must be employed by or partnered with a company authorized by ANRE (the Energy Regulatory Authority). Individuals complete approved training and assessments under that company's authorization scope.
• Pressure equipment, steam, and hot water boilers fall under ISCIR oversight. Installation, maintenance, and operation of such equipment require ISCIR authorizations. If your background includes boilers and pressure vessels, plan time for local training and certification alignment.

Romanian trade certification (calificare) and safety training

• Employers often require Romanian health and safety training (SSM) and fire safety training (PSI) before you start on site.
• If you plan long-term residency, consider enrolling in a Romanian vocational course to formalize equivalence and build local credibility.

Documentation to prepare

• Diplomas and certificates translated into Romanian by a sworn translator
• Detailed CV highlighting exact tasks: pipe materials, systems installed, gas categories, commissioning
• Employer reference letters on letterhead, with verifiable contacts

Salary & Benefits

Salary varies by city, experience, specialization, and whether you are an employee or contractor. The currency in Romania is RON (Romanian Leu). For quick mental math, many expats use a rough rate of 1 EUR = 5 RON. Exchange rates fluctuate, so check live rates when negotiating.

Employee salaries (monthly gross and net)

• Entry-level or helper: 4,500 - 6,500 RON gross (roughly 900 - 1,300 EUR)
• Skilled plumber with 3-5 years experience: 6,000 - 10,000 RON gross (about 1,200 - 2,000 EUR)
• Senior installer or team lead, specialized in heating/gas: 9,000 - 14,000 RON gross (about 1,800 - 2,800 EUR)

Employee payroll in Romania typically includes a flat 10% income tax plus social contributions withheld from salary. The net amount you take home is usually about 55% to 70% of gross, depending on allowances, sector-specific incentives, and benefits. Always ask the employer to quote both gross and net so you can compare offers.

Example net estimate for a skilled plumber:

• Gross: 9,000 RON
• Estimated net take-home after standard employee deductions: roughly 5,200 - 6,000 RON
• In EUR terms: around 1,040 - 1,200 EUR (assuming 1 EUR = 5 RON)

Note: Payroll rules can change and can differ for special sectors or benefits. Use an up-to-date Romanian payroll calculator to model your case.

Contractor day rates

• Day rates for independent plumbers often range 400 - 800 RON per day in regional cities, and can exceed 900 - 1,000 RON in Bucharest for complex work or urgent call-outs.
• Contractors must handle their own tax and social contributions, professional liability insurance, and compliance.

Benefits to negotiate

• Overtime pay and weekend rates
• Per diem or travel allowances for sites outside the city
• Tool allowance or employer-provided tools
• Workwear and safety gear
• Training sponsorship for ANRE/ISCIR or specialized courses
• Health insurance top-ups or private medical plans
• Accommodation support if you relocate to a project city

Cost of Living

Your budget depends on city, housing choice, and lifestyle. Below are realistic monthly estimates as a starting point.

Housing (long-term rentals)

• Bucharest: 1-bedroom apartment in the city 500 - 700 EUR (2,500 - 3,500 RON). Outside the center or shared housing can be cheaper.
• Cluj-Napoca: 450 - 650 EUR (2,250 - 3,250 RON)
• Timisoara: 350 - 550 EUR (1,750 - 2,750 RON)
• Iasi: 300 - 500 EUR (1,500 - 2,500 RON)

Utilities and internet

• Utilities for a 1-bedroom: 80 - 150 EUR (400 - 750 RON) depending on season and heating
• High-speed internet and mobile plan: 15 - 25 EUR (75 - 125 RON)

Transportation

• Monthly public transport pass: 15 - 25 EUR (75 - 125 RON)
• Fuel: typically lower than Western Europe, but cars bring parking and vignettes for national roads

Groceries and dining

• Groceries per person: 150 - 250 EUR (750 - 1,250 RON)
• Lunch at a casual restaurant: 8 - 12 EUR (40 - 60 RON)
• Coffee: 2 - 3 EUR (10 - 15 RON)

Tools and consumables

• Materials are widely available at chains like Romstal and local suppliers. Budget 50 - 150 EUR monthly for consumables if you are an independent contractor or need to top up personal tools.

Sample monthly budgets

• Bucharest single plumber in a 1-bedroom: 500-700 EUR rent + 120 EUR utilities + 200 EUR groceries + 20 EUR transport + 100 EUR other = about 940 - 1,140 EUR monthly.
• Timisoara shared apartment: 250 EUR housing + 80 EUR utilities + 180 EUR groceries + 20 EUR transport + 80 EUR other = about 610 EUR monthly.

These figures allow many plumbers to save 20% - 40% of net income, depending on earnings and lifestyle.

Cultural Integration

Language basics

It is possible to work with minimal Romanian in some teams, especially when supervisors speak English or Italian. However, learning basic Romanian speeds up your integration and earns respect on site. Start with:

• Greetings and politeness: Buna ziua (Good day), Multumesc (Thank you)
• Site essentials: Teava (pipe), Robinet (valve), Pompa (pump), Incalzire (heating), Canalizare (drainage)
• Measurements: metri, milimetri, panta (slope)

Carry a small glossary for technical terms and drawings. Many technical words are similar across European languages.

Workplace culture

• Hierarchy is respected, but personal rapport is important. Be punctual, communicate clearly, and confirm instructions.
• Safety rules are enforced. Wear PPE and follow SSM/PSI guidelines.
• On multi-national sites, meetings may be in English, but toolbox talks can be in Romanian. Ask for a translation or brief summary if unsure.

Adapting to Romanian standards

• Everything is metric. Get comfortable with mm, cm, m, liters, and bar.
• Common materials: PPR welded pipe for heating and water, copper for certain installations, PVC and HDPE for drainage, steel for industrial lines.
• Local brands and suppliers have specific product codes and sizing. Visit a supplier like Romstal to familiarize yourself with Romanian fittings.

Practical Steps to Relocate

This section focuses on step-by-step banking and financial setup, integrated with your broader relocation checklist.

1) Pre-arrival financial prep

• Open a multi-currency account with a reputable provider that supports EUR and RON. Providers like Wise or Revolut can help bridge the period before you open a local bank account. Confirm availability of RON and any fees.
• Secure a card that offers low foreign transaction fees. Avoid using credit cards that add 2% - 3% foreign fees.
• Prepare cash buffer: 1,500 - 3,000 EUR to cover deposits, initial rent, and setup costs. Do not rely on carrying large cash; plan bank transfers.
• Scan and store documents: passport, job offer, proof of address, reference letters, diplomas. You will need them for both banking and immigration.

2) Arrange your employment and work authorization

• For non-EU citizens: ensure your Romanian employer initiates the work permit process. Do not travel on a tourist visa expecting to work.
• For EU citizens: confirm the registration of your employment and obtain a residence certificate if staying beyond 3 months.

3) Get your tax identification and residence documentation

• Personal Numeric Code (CNP) or tax ID: You will need a Romanian tax identification number to be on payroll and for bank KYC checks.
• Residence permit or registration certificate: Obtain it through IGI. Proof of residence often helps with bank account opening.

4) Open a Romanian bank account (RO IBAN)

Most employers prefer or require paying salaries into a Romanian IBAN starting with RO. To open a bank account:

• Choose a major bank with wide ATM and branch coverage: Banca Transilvania, BCR, ING Romania, BRD, Raiffeisen, CEC Bank, UniCredit Bank.
• Bring documents: passport, residence permit or registration, proof of local address (rental contract or declaration), employment contract or job offer, Romanian tax identification number.
• Account types: request a RON current account for salary and an optional EUR account for savings and EU transfers.
• Cards and mobile banking: most banks offer contactless debit cards plus Apple Pay and Google Pay. Install the banking app on day one.
• Non-resident accounts: some banks open accounts for non-residents with limited features. If you have not finalized your residence documents, ask what is possible and upgrade later.

Tips to speed this up:

• Book an appointment at a branch that handles expats in Bucharest or your destination city.
• Ask for English-language contracts and a support line in English.
• Confirm incoming international transfer details (SWIFT/BIC and IBAN) for your first deposits.

5) Set up payroll and benefits

• Send your bank details to HR or payroll: IBAN (RO...), BIC/SWIFT code if requested.
• Double-check your first payslip to ensure gross and net amounts match your contract and that social contributions and taxes are correctly withheld.
• Ask about meal vouchers, transport passes, or allowances. Some employers provide monthly meal vouchers that can be used in supermarkets and restaurants.

6) Plan your multi-currency strategy

• Keep RON for daily expenses and bills.
• Maintain an EUR account for savings, emergency funds, and EU transfers. Many landlords and large purchases are in RON, but saving in EUR can reduce currency risk.
• Use SEPA transfers to move EUR within the EU at low cost. Romania is part of SEPA, which standardizes transfers and often makes them inexpensive or free.
• When paying by card abroad, avoid dynamic currency conversion at terminals. Always choose to pay in the local currency for better rates.

7) Manage remittances and transfers home

• Compare fees and rates from your bank versus money transfer services. For medium-to-large amounts, SEPA EUR transfers or specialized providers may be cheaper than cash-based remittance services.
• Test a small transfer first to confirm speed, fees, and the recipient process.
• Keep records for tax and proof of funds. Large cash deposits can trigger questions under anti-money laundering rules.

8) Build an emergency fund and insurance

• Target 3 - 6 months of living expenses in a liquid account.
• Ask about employer health coverage. If coverage is basic, consider a private plan for better hospital access.
• Independent contractors should hold professional liability insurance and tool cover. Check client requirements.

9) Choose your business structure if contracting

• PFA (authorized individual) is often simpler to start. You will pay income tax and social contributions on your net profit.
• SRL (limited company) may be suitable if you plan to hire or scale. Corporate tax rules for small companies can be favorable, but compliance is heavier.
• Hire an accountant to handle registrations with ONRC (trade registry), ANAF (tax authority), and monthly filings.

10) Organize documentation for landlords and utilities

• Landlords often ask for proof of income and a local bank account for rent transfers.
• Set up direct debits for utilities where possible to avoid late fees.

Banking and Financial Setup in Detail

Because your blog focus is banking and finance, this deep dive gives you the operational knowledge to avoid costly mistakes.

Romanian banking basics

• IBAN format: Romanian IBANs start with RO. Example structure: ROxx BANK yyyy zzzz zzzz zzzz.
• RON vs EUR: You will use RON for salaries and day-to-day. Many banks let you open parallel RON and EUR accounts to segregate spending and savings.
• Cards: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted. Contactless is the norm. ATMs are common, but use your bank's ATMs to avoid fees.

Documentation checklist to open an account

• Passport valid for at least 6 months
• Residence permit or EU registration certificate (if available)
• Romanian tax identification number (CNP or NIF)
• Proof of local address (rental contract, utility bill, or landlord declaration)
• Employment contract or signed offer letter
• Phone number and email for online banking setup

If you do not yet have a residence permit, ask the bank whether a non-resident account is possible. Some banks allow this with a passport and a foreign tax ID, then convert to resident status later.

Digital banks and fintech

• Wise: Offers multi-currency accounts in EUR and RON with competitive exchange rates. Use it for low-cost conversions and SEPA transfers.
• Revolut: Popular in Romania with strong local adoption. Check whether you can obtain a RO IBAN or EU IBAN and whether your employer accepts it for payroll.
• Traditional banks vs fintech: Many employers prefer a traditional bank RO IBAN for payroll. You can still keep a fintech account for savings and travel.

Fees to watch

• Account maintenance fees: Often low, sometimes waived with salary inflows.
• ATM withdrawal fees: Domestic withdrawals at your bank's ATMs are usually free or low-cost. Foreign ATM fees can add up.
• International transfer fees: SEPA EUR transfers are cheap. Non-SEPA or currency conversions can be more expensive.
• Card foreign transaction fees: Choose cards that do not charge extra for foreign transactions.

Handling exchange rate risk

• If you save for future goals in EUR, consider converting a portion of your salary monthly into EUR to average your rate over time.
• Keep short-term spending in RON to avoid unnecessary conversions.
• For large purchases, ask sellers whether they accept EUR. Some do for property or vehicles, but most everyday transactions are RON.

Credit history and loans

• Banks may require local credit history and stable employment for credit cards or loans.
• After 6 - 12 months of salary inflows, you can apply for a credit card with rewards suited to your spending. Pay in full to avoid interest.
• Mortgages and car loans require additional documentation and down payments. Interest rates vary and can be higher than in Western Europe.

Taxes and payslips overview

• Employee income tax is typically 10% flat in Romania. Employers withhold tax and social contributions from your salary.
• Your monthly payslip will show gross salary, social contributions, income tax, and your net pay. Check for meal vouchers or allowances.
• Keep payslips and annual statements. They are essential for visa renewals, rental applications, loans, and any future immigration processes.

Social security and health insurance

• Employees contribute to the state pension and health insurance through payroll deductions.
• EU citizens benefit from coordination of social security systems. If you are posted or move between EU states, keep your documentation up to date.
• Non-EU citizens must hold valid health insurance and contribute under Romanian rules while employed.

Sending money home

• Use SEPA for EUR transfers inside the EU. For Global destinations outside the EU, compare banks and specialized providers.
• Avoid cash remittances if you can. They are often more expensive and less secure.
• Large cross-border transfers may require proof of source of funds. Keep employment contracts and payslips accessible.

Record-keeping and budgeting

• Use a simple monthly budget: income, fixed costs (rent, utilities), variable costs (food, transport), savings, and tools.
• Keep receipts and invoices, especially if you are a contractor claiming expenses.
• Set alerts in your banking app for salary arrival, low balances, and large transactions.

Legal and Regulatory Essentials for Plumbers

Beyond banking, it is critical to align your work with Romanian and EU regulations.

Romanian construction standards and codes

• Expect compliance with EU harmonized standards and Romanian technical norms for water supply, sewage, heating, and gas.
• Inspections and commissioning documentation are common on larger projects. Be ready to produce test reports, pressure test logs, and as-built drawings.

EU plumbing certifications and recognition

• While plumbing is not uniformly regulated across the EU, employers value documented qualifications. Portable skills like soldering, welding, crimping, and press-fitting are in demand.
• If your prior experience includes gas work, inquire early about ANRE certification pathways.

ISCIR and gas authorizations

• ISCIR oversees safety for pressure equipment and boilers. Roles that involve operating or servicing such equipment require ISCIR-compliant training and authorization.
• ANRE authorizes companies and individuals for gas installations. If you plan to work on gas distribution or consumer installations, plan for courses, exams, and supervised practical work.

Safety training

• Site safety (SSM) and fire safety (PSI) training are mandatory and typically organized by the employer before you start.
• Keep your training certificates in both physical and digital form.

Success Tips for Working to Romanian Standards

• Master the metric system and local materials: PPR welding, PVC for drainage, press systems for multilayer pipe, and copper soldering.
• Learn the standard sizes and naming conventions used by Romanian suppliers.
• Ask for local technical manuals. Many brands have Romanian-language documentation with diagrams.
• Pair up with an experienced local colleague for the first weeks to learn site routines and documentation expectations.

Common Challenges and How to Handle Them

• Language for technical terms: Keep a bilingual glossary in your notes app. Practice pronunciation to be clear on site.
• Local building codes: Request the relevant technical norms from your foreman and read the sections that affect your tasks.
• Romanian pipe fitting standards: Differences in thread types, sealants, and fittings can be subtle. Do a short supplier visit to ask questions and compare.
• Metric measurements: Wear a metric tape and convert your muscle memory from inches to millimeters. Mark common conversions on your toolbox for quick reference.

Success Tips

• Negotiate a clear contract: Specify gross and net pay, overtime, allowances, travel time, and tool responsibilities.
• Keep multiple accounts: One RON account for expenses, one EUR account for savings. Automate transfers right after payday.
• Build credit carefully: Apply for a credit card after you have stable income and pay it off monthly to avoid interest.
• Network: Join local trade groups or online communities for expats in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi. Jobs often circulate through referrals.
• Track training progress: Schedule your SSM/PSI training and any ANRE/ISCIR steps early so you do not miss project assignments.
• Invest in language: 20 minutes a day of Romanian practice pays off on site and with clients.
• Plan for seasonality: Winter can bring peaks in heating system work. Save during busy months to cover quieter periods or training time.

Conclusion with call-to-action

Romania offers a compelling combination of strong plumbing demand, EU access, and a manageable cost of living. With the right banking and financial setup, you can convert your skills into steady income, protect your savings from currency swings, and send money home efficiently. Start by securing your RO IBAN, setting up a RON-EUR structure, and confirming your payroll and benefits. Align your certifications, particularly for gas and pressure equipment, and lock in your legal status with the correct visa or registration. Then focus on language basics, local materials, and building a trusted network.

If you are a professional plumber from Global considering the move, begin now: line up interviews, gather your documents, and book a bank appointment in your destination city. A smooth financial setup is the foundation for a successful relocation to Romania. Your skills are in demand. Put them to work where they are valued.

FAQ

1) Can I open a Romanian bank account before I arrive?

Some banks offer non-resident accounts, but most require proof of Romanian residency and a local tax ID. As a workaround, open a multi-currency account with a fintech provider for your first month, then switch to a local RO IBAN after you finalize your residence documents.

2) Do employers accept foreign or fintech IBANs for salary?

Practices vary. Many employers prefer a local RO IBAN from a Romanian bank for payroll. Some accept EU IBANs from fintech providers, especially for EUR payments, but you should confirm this before your first payday. To avoid delays, aim for a Romanian RON account.

3) How much money should I bring to settle in?

Plan for 1,500 - 3,000 EUR to cover rent deposit, first month's rent, utilities setup, transport, and basic furnishings. If your employer provides accommodation, you can start on less. Keep funds in a card-accessible account rather than carrying large cash.

4) What is the typical salary for a skilled plumber in Bucharest?

A skilled plumber can expect 6,000 - 10,000 RON gross monthly, with higher figures for specialized gas or heating roles, complex sites, or shift work. Senior installers and foremen can reach 9,000 - 14,000 RON gross. Always compare gross and net and check overtime policies.

5) How do I get recognized to work on gas installations?

Gas work generally requires authorization under ANRE. Individuals typically complete specific training and assessments and work under an ANRE-authorized company. If your background includes gas fitting, discuss the certification plan with your employer before arrival so training can be scheduled promptly.

6) What documents do I need for a bank account?

Bring a passport, residence permit or EU registration certificate, Romanian tax ID (CNP/NIF), proof of address (rental contract), and your employment contract or offer letter. Some banks accept non-resident accounts with fewer documents, then upgrade you later.

7) How do taxes work on my salary?

Romanian payroll generally applies a flat 10% income tax and social contributions withheld by your employer. Your payslip will show all deductions. The net percentage of your gross salary depends on sector rules and benefits. Use a current payroll calculator for accurate estimates.

8) Is it better to be an employee or a contractor?

Employees enjoy stable income and simplified taxes. Contractors (PFA or SRL) can sometimes earn more per day but must manage taxes, insurance, and compliance. The best choice depends on your project pipeline, risk tolerance, and whether clients require a company invoice. Consult an accountant.

9) What are typical monthly living costs in Cluj-Napoca?

For a single person, expect 450 - 650 EUR rent for a 1-bedroom, 90 - 140 EUR utilities, 180 - 250 EUR groceries, and 15 - 25 EUR for a transport pass. A practical monthly total ranges 800 - 1,100 EUR depending on lifestyle.

10) How soon can I get paid after I arrive?

If you have your RO IBAN and start work promptly, you can receive your first salary at the end of the first pay cycle, typically monthly. If bank setup is delayed, ask HR whether they can issue a cash advance or pay to a temporary IBAN.

Appendix: Quick Banking Checklist

• Before travel: open a multi-currency account with EUR and RON
• Bring documents: passport, job offer, proof of address, translated certificates
• Obtain Romanian tax ID and residence documentation
• Open RO IBAN RON account and optional EUR account at a major bank
• Set salary deposit and verify first payslip
• Automate transfers: move a portion to EUR savings each month
• Keep emergency fund and verify health coverage
• Record expenses and invoices, especially if contracting

With this checklist and the detailed steps above, your financial setup in Romania will be robust, efficient, and ready for your first paycheck.