- The best travel insurance plans for Romania
- Is it currently safe to travel to Romania?
- Is travel insurance required by law to enter Romania?
- Why take out travel insurance for Romania?
- What travel insurance for Romania should cover
- The Cost of Travel Insurance for Romania
- How to pay less for your travel insurance to Romania
- Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Romania?
- FAQ
- On the same topic
Travel insurance for Romania: key takeaways
1. Definition: Travel insurance for Romania covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and other unforeseen events.
2. Key protection: Insurance is not mandatory but is vital for covering unexpected medical costs and emergencies.
3. Healthcare cost: Private healthcare is recommended; a hospital night can cost several hundred dollars for foreigners.
4. Price: A one-week travel insurance policy for Romania typically costs between $25 and $50.
5. Good to know: Your domestic US health insurance, including Medicare, likely offers no coverage in Romania.
Why trust HelloSafe?
HelloSafe is an international specialist in travel insurance comparison, advising over one million travelers every month. After analyzing 38 travel insurance policies available in the US, our experts share here everything you need to know to choose the best travel insurance for Romania.
The best travel insurance plans for Romania
| Contract we recommend | Medical reimbursement limit | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| HelloTravel Premium | $1.1M | Strong recommendation for travel to Romania. - high medical limit - medical evacuation included - broad guarantee package |
| Cap Assistance 24/24 | $1.1M | Reliable for emergencies in Romania. - 24/7 medical support - cancellation option - no deductible |
| Tourist Card | $540K | Useful for city visits and tourism. - solid medical cover - emergency assistance - practical cost |
| Travel Pass Monde | $750K | Balanced coverage for most needs. - repatriation included - hospital costs covered - clear and flexible terms |
| Globe Partner | $325K | Good for long stays and essential protection. - medical care abroad - repatriation - civil liability included |
| Globe Traveller | $540K | Suited for short, low-risk trips. - essential medical cover - rapid reimbursement - limited ceiling |
- high medical limit
- medical evacuation included
- broad guarantee package
- 24/7 medical support
- cancellation option
- no deductible
- solid medical cover
- emergency assistance
- practical cost
- repatriation included
- hospital costs covered
- clear and flexible terms
- medical care abroad
- repatriation
- civil liability included
- essential medical cover
- rapid reimbursement
- limited ceiling
Is it currently safe to travel to Romania?
As of June 2025, the US Department of State assesses the safety situation in Romania at the lowest level, advising normal precautions for travelers.
- Security risks: while violent crime is rare, there are regular reports of theft and pickpocketing in urban tourist spots and on public transport, including subway stations in Bucharest. Scams involving plainclothes police and money exchange are reported at major train stations.
- Health risks: no special vaccinations are required, but public healthcare outside Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca is often below Western standards. For serious illness or injury, medical evacuation may be necessary, and earthquake risk is present, especially in the capital.
- Legal requirements: Romania is a Schengen country and allows visitors from the US up to 90 days without a visa, but your passport must be valid for three months after your departure. An International Driving Permit is required for driving, along with your US license.
- Environmental hazards: Romania has the highest traffic fatality rate in the EU, with rural roads and highways often in poor condition. Heavy rain may cause flash floods, particularly in mountainous areas like the Carpathians.
Although not required, travel insurance is strongly recommended by the US Department of State, particularly to cover medical expenses and emergency repatriation, which can be extremely costly in Romania.
Is travel insurance required by law to enter Romania?
No, travel insurance is not mandatory for US citizens entering Romania for tourist stays of up to 90 days.
However, travel insurance is still highly recommended because medical care in Romania may not meet US standards, especially in rural areas, and medical evacuation can be costly. Having insurance ensures better access to medical treatment and covers potential expenses related to illness, accidents, or emergencies.
According to our data, 50% of travelers purchase travel insurance before going to Romania. This is mainly due to the fact that medical costs and evacuation can still represent a significant financial risk, even in a generally safe European country.
Why take out travel insurance for Romania?
It is an essential financial and medical protection for anyone going to Romania.
In Romania, public hospitals can be overcrowded, with limited equipment especially outside major cities like Bucharest or Cluj-Napoca. Foreign travelers tend to use private clinics such as Regina Maria in Bucharest, where care is significantly more expensive and must often be paid for up-front.
Travel insurance covers essential protections such as medical expenses, hospitalization costs, medications, ambulance transportation, and repatriation costs to the US in the event of a serious issue.
Here are some examples of healthcare costs in Romania.
| Example of medical treatment | Cost at Regina Maria Clinic | Covered by travel insurance |
|---|---|---|
| I have to be hospitalized 48 hours after contracting an infection | 7,000 RON (about $1,530) | up to 100% |
| I broke my tibia (X-ray, cast, and crutch rental) | 3,500 RON (about $765) | up to 100% |
| I need to be repatriated | 45,000 RON (about $9,850) | up to 100% |
| I have appendicitis (consultation and surgery) | 12,000 RON (about $2,630) | up to 100% |
These prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on the facilities and regions.
It is therefore essential to take out appropriate travel insurance to avoid unexpected and potentially high expenses.
What travel insurance for Romania should cover
Here is a summary table of the main coverages you should look for in a travel insurance policy for Romania.
| Main coverages | Explanations and recommendations |
|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical expenses | Covers emergency medical care, hospitalization, and doctor’s fees. Seek 24/7 assistance and direct billing where possible. We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least $100,000. |
| ✈️ Trip cancellation | Covers prepaid, non-refundable travel expenses if you need to cancel for a covered reason such as illness or injury. A minimum of $2,000 is advisable for most trips to Romania. |
| 🧳 Baggage and personal effects | Insures against loss, theft, or damage to your luggage and valuables. Local theft risk is not uncommon. A limit of $1,500 per insured is suitable. |
| 🚑 Medical evacuation and repatriation | Pays for medically necessary evacuation to the US or nearest adequate facility. Romania’s care can be limited outside main cities. A minimum of $100,000 is recommended. |
| 🚗 Personal liability | Protects against legal claims for accidental injury or damage to others or property abroad. Roads in Romania can be hazardous. We recommend coverage of at least $50,000. |
| 🕒 Travel delay | Provides reimbursement for meals, lodging, and essentials if your travel is delayed for covered reasons. A daily limit of $150 per person and total of $500 per trip is practical. |
| 💳 24/7 assistance services | Includes access to multilingual helpline for legal or medical referrals, translation, or emergency help. No fixed limit applies, but confirm it’s included in your policy. |
We recommend a reimbursement limit of at least $100,000.
A minimum of $2,000 is advisable for most trips to Romania.
A limit of $1,500 per insured is suitable.
A minimum of $100,000 is recommended.
We recommend coverage of at least $50,000.
A daily limit of $150 per person and total of $500 per trip is practical.
No fixed limit applies, but confirm it’s included in your policy.
Coverage from local providers or bank cards is often limited, with low reimbursement maximums and many exclusions. It is safer to choose a trusted insurer offering full coverage. Compare top options on HelloSafe and subscribe online for instant certification.
The Cost of Travel Insurance for Romania
| Trip duration | Traveler’s age | Indicative price per person |
|---|---|---|
| 1 week | 25 years old | $34 |
| 2 weeks | 45 years old | $58 |
| 1 month | 35 years old | $85 |
| 1 month | 70 years old | $160 |
These prices are indicative and may vary depending on the coverage chosen and the specifics of each insurer.
Good to know
The price of your policy is shaped by several key factors: your age, trip duration, destination, and selected options like trip cancellation coverage. It's important to consider these elements to find the right plan for your trip, ensuring you have the coverage you need at a fair price.
💡 It is always recommended to compare multiple offers to find the best value-for-money plan for you. You can use HelloSafe.
👉 Compare the best travel insurance for freeI compareHow to pay less for your travel insurance to Romania
Here are some suggestions to optimize the cost of your travel insurance to Romania while keeping good coverage:
| Criteria | Why it matters | Expert tip |
|---|---|---|
| 🏥 Medical coverage | Medical care in Romania is less advanced outside major cities, and evacuation to Western Europe can be costly. | Choose a plan with sufficient medical coverage but avoid overly high limits unless needed for risky travel. |
| 💳 Deductible size | Higher deductibles reduce your premium, but you may pay more out of pocket if you need medical care. | Opt for a deductible you can handle if needed, as it can significantly reduce your premium upfront. |
| 🌍 Length of stay | Premiums rise for longer trips and the Schengen region allows a 90-day maximum per 180 days. | Insure only for the exact dates you will be in Romania, avoiding extra “buffer” days. |
| 🧑 Traveler’s age | Premiums often go up with age, especially above 60. | Compare offers. Heymondo does not increase prices for people over 62, which is uncommon. |
| 👫 Number of travelers | Group policies cover families or friends and commonly offer a lower per-person price. | Buy a family or group plan instead of several single policies to save per person. |
| 💼 Activity coverage | Adventure sports or high-risk activities are often excluded or drive up prices. | Only add special coverage for hazardous activities if you plan to actually do them in Romania. |
| 🩺 Pre-existing conditions | May either not be covered or increase the cost, especially with complex or chronic illnesses. | Declare only important chronic conditions. Shop around for flexible or dedicated policies if you need it. |
Can I rely on my current insurance to cover me in Romania?
It’s perfectly reasonable to ask whether your current insurance—like credit card coverage or your health plan—will protect you during a trip to Romania. However, these forms of coverage are often limited or insufficient for unexpected incidents abroad. Only travel insurance gives access to comprehensive medical support and assistance tailored for travelers.
Here is a summary table to help you review your current insurance and what it covers.
| Type of Insurance | Valid in Romania? | What it covers | Why Travel Insurance is better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public health insurance (Medicare, Medicaid) | No, never | No coverage outside the US. No medical care, hospitalization, or evacuation paid in Romania. | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ in care, hospitalization, and repatriation costs abroad. |
| Private health insurance (Blue Cross, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna) | Yes, partly | Limited emergency coverage abroad. Medical evacuation and repatriation usually excluded or capped: $10,000. | Travel insurance offers $100,000+ in medical evacuation and 24/7 assistance worldwide. |
| Classic credit card (Visa Classic, Mastercard Standard, Citibank Basic) | Yes, partly | Accidents and limited medical expenses, typically $2,500–$5,000. No baggage, trip cancellation, or theft. | Travel insurance covers $100,000+ for medical plus trip cancellation and baggage loss. |
| Premium credit card (Chase Sapphire Preferred, Amex Gold, Visa Signature) | Yes, partly | Medical coverage up to $25,000–$50,000. Some delay/baggage loss support, trip cancellation limits. | Travel insurance includes $100,000+ medical, $5,000 trip cancellation, and real-time local support. |
Example
While hiking in Romania's Carpathian Mountains, Mark suffered a severe leg fracture. Emergency surgery at a private clinic cost $18,000. His Chase Sapphire Preferred card's travel benefit only covered $2,000, and his US health plan deemed the clinic "out-of-network," leaving him with a massive $16,000 bill for his adventure.
Expert advice
Always check your existing insurance for its terms, exclusions, and limits. Critical situations, like trip interruption due to a relative’s illness or death, might be excluded. Read the conditions carefully to avoid surprises abroad. In all cases, it is safer and more reassuring to get dedicated travel insurance tailored to your trip.
FAQ
Do I need a visa to travel to Romania?
U.S. citizens do not need a tourist visa to visit Romania for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Travelers must have a valid U.S. passport with at least three months beyond the date they plan to leave Romania. Overstaying the permitted duration may result in penalties or denied future entry.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Romania?
Start by comparing different policies using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to find the coverage that best fits your needs. Then, review the specific cover and exclusions for Romania, checking guarantees and limitations carefully. Next, purchase the policy online through the chosen provider. Once completed, you will receive your insurance certificate by email.
Does my U.S. health insurance cover me in Romania?
Most U.S. health insurance plans, including Medicare, do not offer coverage overseas. Travelers are typically responsible for all medical expenses incurred in Romania. Emergency care, hospital stays, or medical evacuation can involve significant costs, so purchasing dedicated travel insurance is strongly recommended.
What should I look for in travel insurance for Romania?
Focus on policies covering at least $50,000 in emergency medical expenses and $100,000 or more for medical evacuation. Consider coverage for trip cancellations, baggage loss, and personal liability. Make sure the policy covers pre-existing conditions if these are a concern for your trip.
Are there special requirements for driving in Romania as a tourist?
To drive in Romania with a U.S. license, you must also obtain an International Driving Permit before your trip. Insurance for rental cars is usually available but may exclude certain types of incidents. Make sure your travel insurance or car rental coverage includes liability and collision protection.
Is there a risk of natural disasters in Romania and does travel insurance cover it?
Romania is in a seismically active region, and earthquakes are possible, especially in Bucharest. Some travel insurance plans may offer trip interruption or delay benefits in case of natural disasters. Check your policy terms carefully to confirm coverage for such events before purchasing.
Do I need a visa to travel to Romania?
U.S. citizens do not need a tourist visa to visit Romania for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Travelers must have a valid U.S. passport with at least three months beyond the date they plan to leave Romania. Overstaying the permitted duration may result in penalties or denied future entry.
How do I purchase travel insurance for Romania?
Start by comparing different policies using the HelloSafe travel insurance comparison tool to find the coverage that best fits your needs. Then, review the specific cover and exclusions for Romania, checking guarantees and limitations carefully. Next, purchase the policy online through the chosen provider. Once completed, you will receive your insurance certificate by email.
Does my U.S. health insurance cover me in Romania?
Most U.S. health insurance plans, including Medicare, do not offer coverage overseas. Travelers are typically responsible for all medical expenses incurred in Romania. Emergency care, hospital stays, or medical evacuation can involve significant costs, so purchasing dedicated travel insurance is strongly recommended.
What should I look for in travel insurance for Romania?
Focus on policies covering at least $50,000 in emergency medical expenses and $100,000 or more for medical evacuation. Consider coverage for trip cancellations, baggage loss, and personal liability. Make sure the policy covers pre-existing conditions if these are a concern for your trip.
Are there special requirements for driving in Romania as a tourist?
To drive in Romania with a U.S. license, you must also obtain an International Driving Permit before your trip. Insurance for rental cars is usually available but may exclude certain types of incidents. Make sure your travel insurance or car rental coverage includes liability and collision protection.
Is there a risk of natural disasters in Romania and does travel insurance cover it?
Romania is in a seismically active region, and earthquakes are possible, especially in Bucharest. Some travel insurance plans may offer trip interruption or delay benefits in case of natural disasters. Check your policy terms carefully to confirm coverage for such events before purchasing.
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