Finding Accommodation as an International Driver

Introduction: Your First Romanian Address Matters More Than You Think

Relocating from Dubai to Romania to advance your career as a professional driver is an exciting step into the European logistics arena. Yet the very first challenge most drivers face is not the new truck or route; it’s finding a place to live that is affordable, well-located, employer‑friendly, and secure. Your first Romanian address can directly influence how quickly you complete paperwork, obtain your driver cards, settle into your company’s depot schedule, and manage living costs.

In Dubai, employer-provided staff housing and short commutes are common, climate is consistent, and services are highly streamlined. Romania is different: it has four seasons (yes, real winters), varied rental standards, and a market where private landlords and online listing platforms dominate. The good news is that Romania offers a cost of living that’s typically lower than Western Europe, access to the EU transport market, and a strong network of logistics hubs. With strategy and the right information, you can secure housing that supports your income goals, your work-life balance, and your long-term move into Europe.

This guide is built specifically for professional drivers in Dubai who are considering a move to Romania. It explains the housing market, where to live as a driver, how to avoid scams, what paperwork you’ll need, how to align accommodation with immigration and licensing steps, and where Romania’s trucking opportunities are growing. Whether you’re heading to a depot near Bucharest’s A1 corridor, the Port of Constanța, or the western border near Nădlac, you’ll learn how to find a base that works for the job you want.

How Housing Works in Romania for Newly Arrived Drivers

The rental landscape in brief

Market-driven pricing: Rents vary widely by city, proximity to logistics hubs, and building quality.
Property types: Studios (garsonieră), one-bedroom (apartament 2 camere), two-bedroom (3 camere), and shared flats.
Furnishings: Many apartments come furnished and equipped (mobilat și utilat). Washers are common; dryers are rarer.
Deposits and contracts: Expect to pay a security deposit (garanție) of 1–2 months’ rent, plus the first month upfront. Always sign a written rental contract (contract de închiriere).
Utilities: Utilities (cheltuieli de întreținere) are additional unless specified. Heating may be via district system or a private gas boiler (centrală termică). Internet is fast and inexpensive.

Typical rent ranges (approximate)

Bucharest: Studio 300–500 EUR; 1-bedroom 400–700 EUR. West-side neighborhoods near logistics parks tend to be cheaper than city center.
Cluj-Napoca: Studio 350–500 EUR; 1-bedroom 400–650 EUR.
Timișoara: Studio 300–450 EUR; 1-bedroom 350–550 EUR.
Iași: Studio 250–400 EUR; 1-bedroom 300–500 EUR.
Constanța: Studio 300–450 EUR; 1-bedroom 350–550 EUR (can rise in summer near the coast).

These are ballpark figures and depend on season, property condition, and exact location. Utilities can add 80–150 EUR per month on average, more in winter in colder regions or in older, poorly insulated buildings.

What’s different from Dubai

Winter-proofing matters: Older buildings might have higher heating costs. Check insulation and windows.
Less standardized rentals: Quality varies; always view the property or use a trusted agent.
Landlord-driven processes: Communication tends to be more personal. Many landlords use WhatsApp and prefer in-person meetings.

Where to Live: Romanian Cities and Logistic Hubs Drivers Prefer

Romania’s logistics activity clusters around major corridors, border crossings, and the Black Sea port. Choosing a home near your depot or a key motorway can reduce commute time and help you handle early dispatches and late returns.

Bucharest and the A1/A2 Corridors

Why base here: The Bucharest metro area is Romania’s largest logistics hub. You’ll find mega-parks like CTPark Bucharest West (near Bolintin-Deal), P3 Bucharest A1, Chitila Logistics Hub, and facilities along the ring road (DNCB). The A1 links to the west toward Pitești, Sibiu, Deva, Arad, and onward to Hungary. The A2 heads east to the Port of Constanța.
Neighborhoods to consider: Militari, Chiajna (Militari Residence), Chitila, Dragomirești, Roșu for quick A1 access; Popești-Leordeni for A2; Pantelimon for the eastern ring. These areas tend to be cheaper than central Bucharest and close to depots.
Transport: STB buses, trams, Bucharest Metro (mainly in the city proper), and ride-hailing (Bolt, Uber). West-side rentals balance price and proximity to logistics.

Constanța and the Port

Why base here: Constanța is the largest Black Sea port in the EU, a major hub for containerized and bulk cargo. Drivers involved in container trucking, Ro-Ro, and regional distribution benefit from living nearby.
Areas to consider: Tomis Nord, Inel, and Palazu Mare for residential value; Agigea and Lazu areas sit near port access roads.
Seasonal note: Rents can climb in summer in tourist-heavy zones. Book early or seek year-round contracts.

Western Gateways: Arad, Timișoara, Oradea, and the Nădlac Border

Why base here: Many international routes cross into Hungary at Nădlac. Timișoara and Arad host logistics parks close to the A1/A11 corridors and the border. It’s ideal for drivers assigned to Western European lanes.
Neighborhoods and rings: In Timișoara, look at Ghiroda, Dumbrăvița, Giroc; in Arad, zones near the A1 access.

Central Hubs: Sibiu, Pitești, Brașov

Why base here: Sibiu sits on the A1 corridor; Pitești is key due to the automotive sector and the A1 connection to Bucharest; Brașov anchors central distribution with growing warehousing.
Consideration: These cities are strategic for domestic long-haul and international staging runs.

Cluj-Napoca and Iași

Why base here: Cluj-Napoca is an expanding tech and logistics market in the northwest, with connections to Oradea and the future A3 expansions. Iași is strategic for eastern and Moldavian regional distribution and cross-border links to Moldova.
Neighborhood tips: In Cluj, Mărăști and Mănăștur are popular for value; in Iași, Păcurari offers good access.

Matching housing to your depot

Ask your employer for depot address and shift patterns before choosing an area. A 20-minute drive at 4 am is very different from a 60-minute cross-city commute in winter.
Consider proximity to secure truck parking and service stations used by your company.

Finding Listings and Avoiding Scams

Reliable platforms and channels

OLX.ro: Extremely popular for rentals; filter by neighborhood and furnished units.
Storia.ro and Imobiliare.ro: Major real estate portals with agent and private listings.
Publi24.ro and CompariImobiliare.ro: Additional options for broader searches.
Facebook Marketplace and local groups: Useful, but verify carefully.
Agencies: Real estate agents can save time and language hassle. Fees vary (commonly a half‑month to one month’s rent paid once, depending on deal and city).

How to screen a listing

Look for these terms: mobilat și utilat (furnished and equipped), aproape de metrou (near metro), loc de parcare (parking spot), centrală termică (gas boiler), costuri mici întreținere (low building fees).
Ask for a live video call or in-person viewing to confirm condition and location.
Request proof the person is the owner or a licensed agent. Ask for owner’s ID and property details if needed.

Avoiding common scams

Never pay a deposit without a signed rental contract and keys. Scammers often pressure with urgency.
Be cautious with third-party ‘finders’ demanding upfront fees without a clear service agreement.
Verify address and photos. Use Google Street View to check the building and neighborhood.
Ensure the rental contract includes your name, the exact address, rent, deposit, payment method, and duration. Clarify whether utilities are included.

Documents you may need

Passport
Work contract or job offer (helps convince landlords of your income stability)
Romanian residence permit or proof of application (once available)
Proof of funds or bank statements (optional but helpful)

Note: Some landlords are comfortable renting to newcomers with an employer letter confirming hiring. If your company regularly hires international drivers, ask them for a template or to speak directly with the landlord or agent.

Short-Term vs Long-Term: Bridging Your First 90 Days

Short-term options for fast arrival

Furnished short lets: Airbnb, Booking, and serviced apartments offer flexible stays of 2–12 weeks.
Pensiune/guesthouses and hostels: Affordable in smaller cities; check for secure parking if you’ll keep personal items in a vehicle.
Company-arranged housing: Some carriers provide initial accommodation during onboarding. Ask during your job negotiations.

These options are ideal while you set up paperwork, open a bank account, and learn the neighborhoods. They also help you view long-term rentals in person, which is invaluable for quality and landlord verification.

When to switch to long-term

Once you’ve received your Romanian residence permit or initiated the process at the immigration office (IGI), you’ll find it easier to register a lease and set up utilities.
After confirming depot assignments and regular routes, you’ll know whether living west (A1), east (A2), or near port or borders makes more sense for your schedule.

Negotiating lease terms as a driver

Flexibility: Ask for a 6–12 month contract with a notice period aligned with probation at your company.
Payment method: Bank transfer is most common. Some landlords accept cash initially, but bank transfer is safer and traceable.
Registration: Request the landlord to register the contract with tax authorities (ANAF). A registered contract helps with residence formalities and is better for your legal protection.

Budgeting Accurately: Total Housing Cost of Living

Monthly cost components

Rent: Based on city and proximity to logistics routes.
Utilities: Electricity, gas, water, internet. Heating can be significant in winter.
Building fees: Cheltuieli de întreținere (cleaning, lift, common area heating). Ask about averages for the specific building.
Transport: Fuel or public transport pass; occasional ride-hailing for odd hours.
Miscellaneous: Sim card, initial household purchases (kettle, bedding, kitchen items), winter essentials.

Sample cost scenarios (approximate)

Bucharest west-side studio: Rent 380 EUR + utilities 100 EUR + internet/mobile 15 EUR = ~495 EUR/month.
Timișoara 1-bedroom near ring road: Rent 450 EUR + utilities 90 EUR + internet/mobile 15 EUR = ~555 EUR/month.
Constanța studio (off-season): Rent 350 EUR + utilities 90 EUR + internet/mobile 15 EUR = ~455 EUR/month.

Your actual costs may be lower or higher depending on energy prices, building insulation, and personal usage. Plan a buffer of 10–20% during your first three months.

Cutting costs without compromising safety

Choose a well-connected suburb with good road access rather than city center.
Prioritize buildings with individual gas heating (centrală) for better cost control.
Share with another driver to split rent and utilities.
Opt for long-term contracts to negotiate a better monthly rate.

Legal and Administrative Steps Tied to Housing

Accommodation is not only a lifestyle choice—it’s also tied to the legal steps of starting your driving career in Romania.

Rental contract and registration

Insist on a written contract in Romanian. Consider a simple bilingual addendum if needed.
Ask the landlord to register the contract with ANAF. This supports your address proof and can be requested during residency or driver card applications.

Address for immigration and driver documentation

Residence permit: The Inspectoratul General pentru Imigrări (IGI) requires a valid address for processing your residence permit. The owner may need to sign a space acceptance declaration (luare în spațiu); sometimes notarized.
Driver tachograph card: Issued by the transport authority; you’ll need valid ID and residency documents in Romania.
EU driver CPC (Code 95): To work as a professional driver in the EU, you generally need the Code 95 qualification on your license. Your employer and the Romanian training center can guide you.
License exchange: If you become resident and hold a non-EU license, you may need to exchange it for a Romanian or EU license to work. Requirements vary by category (C/CE) and can include medicals and training. Confirm with DRPCIV (driver licensing authority) and your employer.

Important: Regulations can change. Always confirm with your hiring company, ARR (Autoritatea Rutieră Română), DRPCIV, and IGI for the latest steps, timelines, and documents required for non‑EU drivers.

Utilities setup

Internet: Providers like Digi, Orange, and Vodafone offer quick installation; contracts may require a CNP (personal numeric code) tied to your residence permit. Short-term prepaid options exist.
Electricity/gas: Depending on the lease, these may remain in the owner’s name; you pay monthly based on meter readings and bills shared by the owner.

Banking and payments

Romanian banks (Banca Transilvania, ING, Raiffeisen, BRD) or fintechs (Revolut) are commonly used. Some landlords prefer local bank transfers. Opening a local account makes rent payment and salary receipt smoother.

Lifestyle and Cultural Integration in Romanian Neighborhoods

Building etiquette and neighbor relations

Quiet hours: After 10 pm, many buildings expect reduced noise.
Association rules: The building’s association (asociația de proprietari) may post rules and fee notices in the stairwell.
Waste and recycling: Expect sorted bins; follow schedules posted on notice boards.

Everyday living differences from Dubai

Seasonality: Prepare for winter—insulated footwear, thermal layers, and vehicle winter kits (antifreeze, snow brush, gloves).
Groceries and markets: Supermarkets are abundant and prices are reasonable compared to Western Europe. Farmers’ markets offer fresh produce at good prices.
Language: Romanian is a Latin language; younger people in cities often speak English. For paperwork and landlord communication, simple Romanian phrases and translation apps help a lot.

Useful phrases for housing

Caut chirie aproape de A1/A2: I’m looking to rent near the A1/A2.
Mobilat și utilat: Furnished and equipped.
Garanție și chirie: Deposit and rent.
Cheltuieli de întreținere: Building fees/maintenance costs.
Contract de închiriere: Rental contract.

Best Practices and Tips (Romania-Specific)

Ask your employer for a letter confirming job and depot location. It reassures landlords and can help negotiate.
Choose west Bucharest (Militari/Chiajna/Chitila) for A1 depots, east/southeast (Pantelimon/Popești-Leordeni) for A2 links to Constanța.
Use OLX.ro, Storia.ro, and Imobiliare.ro; set alerts for your preferred neighborhoods and price range.
Verify commute in real conditions. Drive the route at your typical start hour (e.g., 4–5 am) before signing.
Think parking. If you own a personal car, check for a designated space (loc de parcare); street parking can be competitive in dense areas.
Inspect heating and windows. Newer windows and an individual gas boiler typically mean better winter comfort and cost control.
Keep paperwork tidy. Save scans of your lease, payment proofs, and landlord conversations. You may need them for IGI or employer HR.
Register utilities and internet early. Technicians can be busy at month’s end when many tenants move.
Consider roommate arrangements with other drivers to halve rent and utilities in Bucharest and Cluj.
Always read the meter readings at move-in and include them in a handover note (proces‑verbal de predare‑primire).

Common Challenges and Solutions (Dubai-to-Romania)

Challenge 1: Language barriers with landlords

Solution: Use a bilingual lease template or ask an agent to mediate. Keep communications on WhatsApp for easy translation. Your HR department may assist with calls.

Challenge 2: Paying deposits before viewing

Solution: Refuse upfront payments without a contract and keys. Request a video tour or involve a licensed agent. If something feels rushed or unclear, walk away.

Challenge 3: Heating costs in winter

Solution: Choose a well-insulated building with an individual gas boiler. Ask for last winter’s utility averages. Use draft stoppers and thermal curtains.

Challenge 4: Tight onboarding timelines

Solution: Book a 2–4 week serviced apartment near your depot while you collect residence documents, open a bank account, and view long-term rentals. This reduces stress and expensive mistakes.

Challenge 5: Aligning housing with immigration requirements

Solution: Make sure the landlord agrees to provide the address confirmation (luare în spațiu) if needed. A registered lease helps with residence applications at IGI.

Challenge 6: Adjusting from Dubai’s climate to Romanian winters

Solution: Budget for warm clothing, home heating, and a winter kit for your vehicle. Ask local colleagues about best-value winter stores and gear.

Challenge 7: Understanding building fees and utility billing

Solution: Request a breakdown of monthly cheltuieli de întreținere and ask who pays for what. Clarify meter reading dates and photo-record meter numbers at move-in.

Industry Insights: Romania’s Trucking and Logistics Landscape

Romania is a strategic bridge between Eastern and Western Europe. For drivers transitioning from Dubai, Romania offers a compelling mix of cost-effective living and access to EU routes.

Key corridors and routes

A1 Corridor: Bucharest – Pitești – Sibiu – Deva – Arad – Nădlac (Hungary). Prime international freight artery.
A2 Corridor: Bucharest – Constanța. Critical for port traffic and container moves.
A3 (segments) and DN1: Connect central and northwestern regions, including Cluj and Brașov.
Border crossings: Nădlac (HU), Giurgiu–Ruse (BG), Albița (MD), Siret (UA) for various regional flows.

Hubs and employers

Major logistics parks: CTPark Bucharest West, P3 Bucharest A1, Chitila Logistics Hub, and growing parks near Timișoara, Arad, Cluj, and Brașov.
Companies: Multinationals like DB Schenker, DSV, Kuehne+Nagel, FM Logistic, DHL (Freight & Supply Chain) and strong local/regional carriers operate across Romania. Many recruit internationally for C/CE drivers.

Regulation and professional standards

EU driving/rest rules: Romania follows EU regulations on driving hours and rest periods; digital tachographs are standard.
Code 95: Professional drivers in the EU require CPC certification displayed as Code 95 on the license. Employers typically guide candidates through training/validation.
Tachograph driver card: Issued by national authorities; ensure your documentation and residence status are in order for application.

Earnings and work patterns

Pay structure: Often a base salary plus per diem for international trips. Actual figures vary widely by company, routes, and experience.
Schedules: Mix of domestic and international lanes. Expect weekly rest planning aligned with EU rules and company policy.

Strategic advantage of Romania

Cost efficiency: Lower living costs compared to many EU countries allow drivers to save more.
Market access: Once settled with the right licensing, you can access broader EU routes via Romania’s western borders.
Growth: Investments in motorways and logistics parks continue, increasing demand for reliable drivers.

Note: Romania joined the Schengen area for air and sea in 2024. Land border checks with some neighbors may still apply. Always verify current border procedures with your employer before trips.

Practical Action Steps: Dubai-to-Romania Relocation

Pre-departure planning in Dubai

Gather documents: Passport, driver qualifications (including C/CE), employment contract or offer, references, and translated copies as requested.
Request employer support: Ask for an arrival plan, depot location, and whether they offer temporary housing or assistance.
Research areas: Choose likely neighborhoods based on depot address (e.g., A1 west of Bucharest, Port of Constanța, or western gateways near Arad/Timișoara).
Budget: Allocate funds for 2–3 months’ rent plus deposit, initial utilities, and winter gear.

Arrival week in Romania

Secure short-term stay: Book 2–4 weeks near your depot to handle paperwork.
SIM card and connectivity: Buy a local SIM (Digi, Orange, Vodafone). Add WhatsApp credit if needed for landlord/agent calls.
View properties: Schedule in-person viewings, verify IDs, and evaluate commute times during your likely shift hours.

Lease and legal setup

Sign the rental contract: Ensure details are correct—address, duration, rent, deposit, included items, and payment method.
Contract registration: Ask landlord to register with ANAF; request proof/confirmation.
Address declaration: Arrange luare în spațiu if IGI requires it for your residence permit.

Work documentation alignment

Residence permit: File at IGI with employer support. Keep copies of your lease and landlord declarations.
Driver tachograph card: Prepare to apply per Romanian authority guidance once residency and employment steps are clear.
Code 95 compliance: Follow employer’s instructions for training or verification of your CPC status.

Set up utilities and daily life

Internet and bills: Schedule installation and clarify how utility payments will be handled.
Transport routines: Test your routes to the depot, identify fuel stations and secure parking along your typical run.
Winter readiness: If arriving autumn–winter, buy thermal wear, waterproof footwear, and basic home heating accessories.

Integrate and optimize

Join local driver communities: Facebook groups and WhatsApp chats often share sublets, good landlords, and safe parking tips.
Reassess after probation: Once route patterns are stable, consider relocating even closer to the depot or to an area with better value.
Plan for savings: If your schedule moves to international lanes with longer stints away, consider sharing a larger flat to cut costs and keep a secure base.

Conclusion: Your Home Base Is a Strategic Career Asset

In Romania, a smart housing choice does more than lower your monthly bills—it accelerates your legal onboarding, reduces commute stress, and supports your performance on European routes. For drivers relocating from Dubai, aim for a two-step strategy: start with a short-term base near your depot, then secure a registered long-term lease in a well-connected area aligned with your routes. Leverage your employer’s support, verify all details before paying deposits, and keep documentation clean for immigration and licensing steps.

Romania’s growing logistics market, key EU corridors, and comparatively modest living costs make it an ideal launchpad for a European driving career. If you prepare well and choose your accommodation strategically, you’ll spend less time juggling housing headaches and more time building your income and experience across the EU network.

Ready to take the next step? Map your target depot, shortlist two neighborhoods, set up listing alerts on OLX.ro and Imobiliare.ro, and ask your future employer for an arrival checklist. A stable Romanian address is the first mile of your European driving journey—make it count.

FAQs: Working and Living in Romania as a Driver

1) Do I need a Romanian address before I can start work and apply for documents?

Having a stable address greatly simplifies your onboarding. Immigration (IGI) typically requires proof of accommodation (lease and, if needed, a space acceptance declaration). Your tachograph driver card and other registrations are also easier with local residence. Many drivers use a short-term rental first, then switch to a longer lease once paperwork progresses.

2) What are the best platforms to find rentals in Romania?

OLX.ro is the most widely used by private landlords. Storia.ro and Imobiliare.ro list both private and agency-managed properties. Publi24.ro and Facebook Marketplace are additional sources, but be vigilant about scams. If you prefer less hassle, a licensed real estate agent can find options quickly for a one-time fee.

3) Which Romanian city is best for international drivers?

It depends on your depot and routes. Bucharest’s west side is ideal for A1 access to Western Europe. Constanța is perfect for port-related work. Timișoara and Arad are great for fast access to the Nădlac border. Cluj-Napoca, Sibiu, and Brașov offer strong domestic and central routes. Always choose housing based on your employer’s base and expected lanes.

4) How much should I budget for rent and utilities?

In most Romanian cities, a studio or small one-bedroom near logistics corridors ranges roughly from 300–700 EUR. Utilities can add 80–150 EUR per month, depending on season and building. Internet and mobile are relatively cheap. Plan a 10–20% buffer for your first few months while you learn your exact usage.

5) Will my UAE driver’s license work in Romania for professional driving?

For professional EU driving, you generally need the correct C/CE categories, CPC (Code 95), and to meet EU tachograph requirements. Non‑EU licenses often need to be exchanged once you become resident. Requirements can include medical exams and courses. Your employer, DRPCIV, and ARR can provide the latest guidance based on your situation.

6) What should I watch for in a Romanian rental contract?

Confirm the exact address, rent, deposit, payment method, contract duration, and included items (furnishings, appliances, parking). Clarify who pays utilities and building fees. Ask your landlord to register the lease with ANAF, and request documentation of registration. Keep copies of all pages and meter readings at move-in.

7) How different is the weather and how do I prepare?

Romania has four seasons. Winters can be cold and snowy, especially in central and northern regions. Prepare with thermal clothing, waterproof footwear, and a vehicle winter kit (scraper, snow brush, gloves, antifreeze). Check your apartment’s heating system and insulation, and ask about last winter’s utility costs to avoid surprises.