Retiring in Romania: A Friendly Guide for UK Pensioners

Are you dreaming of retiring abroad where your pension stretches further, the landscapes are stunning, and the pace of life is calmer? Many UK expats are discovering that retiring in Romania offers just that.

From lively Bucharest to the peaceful countryside of Ilfov, to the breathtaking mountains of Brașov County, Romania has become one of Europe’s hidden gems for retirement living.

If you’re a British pensioner considering a move, here’s what you need to know about applying for residency in Romania — plus how White Mountain Property can help you settle in smoothly.—Residency in Romania:

What UK Pensioners Need

Since Brexit, Brits are treated as non-EU citizens in Romania, which means you’ll need to apply for a Permis de Ședere (residency card). Here’s the basic checklist:

• Passport and photocopy
• Proof of your UK state pension
• Private health insurance covering accidents and sickness
• Medical certificate from a Romanian doctor (confirming no infectious diseases)
• Romanian bank statement showing a balance of at least 5,000 Lei
• Proof of accommodation in Romania (rental contract or purchase deed)

 If you’re moving with a non-Romanian spouse, you’ll also need a notarized marriage certificate, their passport, and sometimes extra financial documentation.—Fees and Immigration Process260 Lei (paid at a Romanian bank)120 Euros (or Lei equivalent) at the State TreasuryAt the immigration office, your photographs and fingerprints will be taken, and later you’ll collect your residency card.—Health Insurance in Romania for ExpatsYour private insurance will cover you at first, but once it expires, most expats switch to Romania’s public health system (CNAS). To register:

1. Sign up with a family doctor using your residency card.

2. Pay your annual government health insurance contribution.

3. Submit the receipt at your local CNAS office (usually inside a hospital). Some retirees qualify for an S1 Certificate from the UK, which can exempt you from future annual payments — worth checking!

Why Retire in Romania?

Life in Romania offers expats an unbeatable balance of affordability, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Bucharest: modern city life with history, restaurants, and culture.Ilfov County: quieter living near the capital, perfect for families or retirees wanting space. Brașov County: mountain air, medieval charm, and outdoor adventures in the Carpathians. The cost of living in Romania is significantly lower than in the UK, meaning your pension goes further — whether on housing, dining out, or healthcare.

How White Mountain Property Can Help

Relocating can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. White Mountain Property specialises in helping expats move to Romania, offering services such as:

• Finding apartments in Bucharest for city lovers
• Securing family homes in Ilfov County for those who want peace with easy city access
• Finding city or mountain properties in Brașov County for retirees seeking fresh air and stunning views
• Guidance through the residency paperwork process

With our expertise, you can focus less on bureaucracy and more on enjoying your new life in Romania.

Final Thoughts

Moving abroad is always a big step, but for many UK pensioners, retiring in Romania has been one of the best decisions they’ve made. The residency process may be a bit of a challenge, but countless expats have done it successfully — and once you’re settled, you’ll discover why so many fall in love with Romania. If you’re ready to explore expat life in Bucharest, Ilfov, or Brașov, reach out to White Mountain Property. We’ll help turn your Romanian retirement dream into reality.

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