Living in Cluj-Napoca as an expatriate

Visa requirements

Many nationals, such as Canadians, Americans, British, and Australians, can obtain a 90-day visa waiver for short stays in Romania by registering with the police within seven days of arrival. For longer stays, a residence permit or work permit is required, and the associated process should be initiated before traveling to Cluj-Napoca. The necessary documentation for work or residence permits includes police registration documents, criminal record certificates, and work contracts.

Language resources

English tends to be widely spoken, particularly by young professionals and in major business and technological centers. However, learning Romanian can offer an advantage in social and cultural settings as well as help to navigate day-to-day encounters. Language schools and private tutors offer courses in different skill levels for those interested in learning the language.

Housing

The cost of housing mirrors other Eastern European capitals such as Budapest and Prague but is relatively lower than Western standards. A room in a shared house falls around €100-€200 per month, while the cost of a one-bedroom apartment or studio can range from €150-€350 per month. Larger apartments, such as two-bedroom units, can cost between €350-€550, and three-bedroom apartments or houses can range from €550 to €800. Most expats suggest opting for suburban locations as they offer more affordable prices.

Groceries

Groceries are available at various supermarkets and stores around the city, with prices lower than Western countries. The cost of food components like fresh fruits, vegetables, and meat is relatively affordable, with most groceries costing around €50-€100 per week for a single adult.

Transportation

The public transportation system is cheap and convenient, with a single ticket costing around €0.30 (approximately €10 for a 10-trip card). Taxis are comparably cheaper than other European cities, with fares starting around €2-€3 for shorter trips and increasing gradually based on distance and traffic.

Cluj-Napoca has a temperate continental climate with mild summers and cold winters. The average summer temperature is around 20°C (68°F), while winter temperatures can drop below -10°C (-14°F). The sunniest months are July and August, while October to April tend to be cloudy and rainy.

Cluj-Napoca is home to a large number of international and local companies in various industries. The technology sector is booming, with several successful startups and major companies like Adobe and Siemens. Other industries include education, healthcare, and finance. Many multinational corporations have established regional headquarters in the city, creating job opportunities for expats with diverse skills.

Cluj-Napoca offers top-notch healthcare facilities, including several certified hospitals and private medical centers. Emergency services are available round the clock, and English-speaking medical professionals are readily available. Healthcare costs are relatively low compared to Western standards, making healthcare affordability a significant draw for expats.

Cluj-Napoca has an efficient and reliable public transportation system, consisting of buses, trams, and trolleybuses that operate throughout the city. The primary form of transportation is buses, which have frequent services and cover all major nearby towns and cities. Navigation is straightforward, thanks to the easily recognizable transportation maps and well-signposted stops.

Cluj-Napoca is considered a relatively safe city, with low crime rates compared to other European cities. The neighborhoods around the city center and downtown areas, such as Gheorgheni, Avram Iancu, and Easy Park, are generally safer than suburban areas. However, it's advised to avoid carrying valuables and walking alone in deserted areas at night.