Is Health Insurance Required When Moving to Romania?

When planning a move to Romania as an expat or digital nomad, one of the essential considerations is health insurance. Romania has a public healthcare system, but it is crucial for newcomers to have private health insurance upon arrival, especially during the period before they gain residency or become enrolled in the public healthcare system. The Romanian government requires that all non-EU residents have health insurance that covers the duration of their stay. The minimum coverage amounts and length of coverage required can vary, so it's important to check the latest regulations before arrival. Typically, the insurance must cover emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation for medical reasons. Ensuring that you have the right health insurance in place is not only a legal requirement but also a practical measure to protect yourself against unforeseen medical costs.

Does Expat Health Insurance Meet the Requirements?

Most expat health insurance plans are designed to meet the requirements set by various countries for incoming residents. However, it is vital to verify that the plan you choose complies with Romanian regulations. The insurance should cover emergency medical services, hospitalization, and repatriation. It is advisable to check if the policy has any exclusions and to ensure that it is valid for the entire duration of your stay or until you are eligible to join the Romanian public healthcare system. Additionally, the policy should provide a coverage amount that is acceptable to Romanian authorities for residency applications.

Which local health insurers offer this type of insurance?

In Romania, there are several local health insurance providers that offer plans suitable for expats and digital nomads. These insurers typically provide a range of options from basic to comprehensive coverage. Some of the well-known insurance companies include Allianz-Tiriac, Groupama, and Uniqa. These companies have experience dealing with the expat community and offer plans that are specifically tailored to meet the legal requirements for residency. They also provide customer service in English, which can be very helpful for expats who are not yet fluent in Romanian.

Advice from Expats in Romania about Health Insurance

Expats living in Romania often emphasize the importance of thoroughly researching and understanding the terms of any health insurance policy before purchasing it. It's crucial to ensure that the policy covers a wide range of medical services and has a high enough limit to cover any potential medical expenses. Expats also recommend choosing a reputable insurer with a track record of prompt and fair handling of claims. Additionally, it's beneficial to consider plans that offer direct billing with hospitals and clinics to avoid out-of-pocket payments. Lastly, expats advise keeping all documentation related to health insurance easily accessible, as it may be required when seeking medical care or dealing with residency paperwork.