Living in Iași as an expatriate

Visa requirements

For non-EU citizens, a long-term stay in Romania typically requires a long-term visa (Type D) and a residence permit. Check the Romanian Embassy or Consulate in your home country for up-to-date information.

Language resources

Romanian is the official language of Iași, but English is widely spoken among young people and professionals. Language schools, such as ‘Lingua School’ and ‘Speak Up!’, offer courses for those looking to learn or improve their Romanian skills.

Housing

Housing costs in Iași are relatively low in comparison to other European cities. A room in a shared house can cost around 200-300 EUR per month, a one-bedroom apartment is approximately 350-500 EUR, while a two-bedroom apartment ranges from 500-700 EUR. Three plus bedroom houses can be found for 700 EUR and up.

Groceries

Grocery costs in Iași are generally low, with a basic monthly grocery basket for a single person estimated at around 150-200 EUR.

Transportation

Public transportation in Iași is affordable, with monthly passes for around 15 EUR. Taxis are also reasonably priced, starting at approximately 0.4 EUR per kilometer.

Iași experiences a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summer temperatures average around 20-25°C (68-77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to -3 to -5°C (27-23°F). Spring and autumn offer milder temperatures and are typically the wettest seasons. Expect snowfall during the winter months.

Key industries in Iași include information technology, telecommunications, and engineering. The city is home to several international companies and outsourcing centers, providing numerous job opportunities. The education sector also offers employment options, as Iași is home to multiple universities and academic institutions.

Iași offers a variety of public and private healthcare facilities. The ‘Grigore T. Popa’ University Hospital is the largest medical facility in the city, while private clinics such as Regina Maria and Medlife provide alternative options. Public healthcare is generally affordable, but private services may require additional fees.

Iași has an extensive public transportation system consisting of buses, trolleybuses, and trams. The ‘Civitas’ mobile app allows users to plan their routes and view up-to-date schedules. The city also boasts a modern light rail system, operating on two main lines.

Iași has a moderate safety rating, with most crime focusing on petty theft and vandalism. Some areas, particularly those near universities, may experience higher crime rates, while residential districts generally report lower incidents. Expats should exercise the same precautions as they would in any other city, including avoiding poorly lit areas and keeping personal belongings secure.