Romania, with its rich history and stunning landscapes, has become an increasingly popular destination for international travelers. However, staying connected while abroad often comes with concerns about roaming charges. This guide will demystify the intricacies of roaming in Romania, helping you make informed decisions about your mobile usage.

Are There Roaming Charges in Romania?

Yes, for travelers from outside the European Union (EU), roaming charges in Romania are indeed a reality. These fees can vary significantly depending on your home country and mobile provider. However, for EU citizens, the situation is more favorable. Thanks to the "Roam Like at Home" regulation implemented in 2017, EU residents can use their domestic mobile plans in Romania without incurring additional charges, subject to fair usage policies.

When Do Roaming Charges Apply in Romania?

Roaming charges in Romania typically apply when you use your non-Romanian SIM card to make calls, send texts, or use data within the country. For non-EU visitors, these charges commence as soon as your device connects to a Romanian network. EU citizens, while protected by the "Roam Like at Home" policy, may face charges if they exceed their plan's fair usage limits or if they're residing in Romania long-term rather than traveling.

Roaming Fees and Charges in Romania

Disclaimer: Prices and plans are subject to change. Always check with your provider for the most up-to-date information.

We've compiled an overview of roaming and carrier fees/plans for Romania:

EE (UK): [1]

• It costs 70p a minute and 30p a text to use your device in the EE Europe zone without an add-on. You also need to buy a 500MB data add-on for £3.

Joi (India): [2]

• Local call: 2 RS per Min

• Call to India: 2 RS per Min

• Call to rest of the world: 100 RS per Min

• Incoming call: 2 RS per Min

• SMS: 2 RS per Min

• Internet: .02 RS per 10 KB

• Europe Pack: ₹ 2899 - 200 mins voice, 100 SMS, 5 GB valid for 30 days

Turkcell (Turkey): [3]

• Use your own plan for 250 TL per day

• 800 TL for 2 weeks for 2 GB, 300 mins, 200 SMS

Vodafone (Turkey): [4]

• Use your own plan for 299 TL per day

• 469 TL per 30 days for 3 GB, 30 Mins, 15 SMS

Turk Telekom (Turkey): [5]

• 540 TL per month for 3 GB, 100 Mins, 1000 SMS

Rogers (Canada): [6]

• $15.00 per 20 MB

• $0.75 per text

• $2.00 per min

• or $15.00 per day - Pay the daily fee and use your own plan (Maximum 20 days per billing cycle)

Verizon (USA): [7]

• $2.05 per MB

• $1.79 per min

• Travel Pass: $12 per day to use your own plan

T-Mobile (USA): [8]

• $5 per day: 512MB data, unlimited calling

• $35 for 10 days: 5GB data, unlimited calling

• $50 for 30 days: 15GB data, unlimited calling

How to Avoid Roaming Charges in Romania?

Follow these steps to minimize or eliminate roaming charges during your Romanian adventure:

• Use Wi-Fi whenever possible and download offline maps

• Disable data roaming and automatic app updates

• If you need constant connectivity, look into Global eSIM options like Roamless.

You can also check our guide on how to avoid roaming charges for more tips.

Roamless eSIM in Romania

Roamless eSIM offers a modern approach to staying connected in Romania, with several advantages over traditional roaming options:

• No Speed Throttling: Experience full-speed data without artificial slowdowns

• Pay-As-You-Go Flexibility: Only pay for the data you actually use

• Non-Expiring Funds: Your balance remains valid for future trips

• Multi-Country Compatibility: One solution for your entire European journey

• Local Network Speeds: Connect at the same speeds as local Romanian users

• Easy Activation: Set up your eSIM before you even land in Romania

Visit our eSIM Romania page or read our guide on the best eSIM for Romania before planning your travel. With Roamless eSIM, you're equipped to explore Romania's digital landscape as effortlessly as you navigate its physical one, ensuring you stay connected without the worry of exorbitant roaming fees.

Sources:

[1] https://ee.co.uk/help/mobile/roaming/roaming-costs/countries/romania

[2] https://www.jio.com/selfcare/plans/mobility/ir-plans-details/?selectedCountries=RO

[3] https://www.turkcell.com.tr/paket-ve-tarifeler/yurt-disinda-kullanim

[4] https://www.vodafone.com.tr/tarifeler/ek-paketler/yurt-disi-kullanim

[5] https://bireysel.turktelekom.com.tr/mobil/yurt-disi

[6] https://www.rogers.com/mobility/roaming#searchbar

[7] https://www.verizon.com/support/international-services-pricing/

[8] https://www.t-mobile.com/cell-phone-plans/international-roaming-plans/unlimited-calling-data-pass