Living in Galati: the ultimate expat guide

Galati's economy is anchored by its industrial heritage and growing service sector, offering employment opportunities for skilled professionals. The city has evolved from a purely industrial center into a diversified economy with emerging sectors in logistics, education, and technology.

Key Employment Sectors

The steel industry remains Galati's largest employer, with Liberty Galati (formerly ArcelorMittal) employing approximately 5,600 workers. The company is Romania's largest integrated steel producer with a capacity of 3 million tonnes annually. Romania's largest shipyard is also located here, benefiting from direct Danube access and co-location with steel production. Additional opportunities exist in agriculture and food processing, which employ about 40% of the regional workforce, as well as education, healthcare, and the growing logistics sector.

Work Permits and Legal Requirements

EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens can work freely in Romania without permits. Non-EU nationals require a work permit obtained by the employer through the General Inspectorate for Immigration, followed by a long-stay visa (D/AM type). Romania issues approximately 100,000 work permits annually to foreign workers. Processing typically takes 30-45 days for the work permit, plus 15-30 days for the visa. Highly skilled workers may obtain permits valid for up to 2 years.

Employment Overview

Sources: National Institute of Statistics - Galati County Directorate, General Inspectorate for Immigration

Galati is home to one of Romania's most significant academic institutions, offering diverse programs for international students in an affordable and welcoming environment.

Dunarea de Jos University of Galati

Dunarea de Jos University (UDJG) is the leading higher education institution in southeastern Romania, founded in 1974. The university serves over 12,500 students, including more than 2,600 international students from around the world. It offers 71 undergraduate and 41 master's programs across 14 faculties, plus doctoral studies in 5 fields through 4 doctoral schools. UDJG is particularly renowned for unique programs in Naval Architecture, Food Science and Engineering, and Fish Farming Technology—disciplines pioneered here and later adopted nationwide.

Programs and Tuition

International students can study in English, particularly in the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, which offers a 6-year medicine program. Tuition fees are notably affordable: EU/EEA students pay approximately EUR 500-600 per year, while non-EU students pay around EUR 2,000-2,400 annually for most programs. Student dormitory accommodation costs approximately EUR 150 per month for a double room. The university provides 9 dormitories, 3 cafeterias, sports facilities, and a library with over 600,000 volumes.

Admission Process

International applicants must submit certified translations of diplomas, academic transcripts, a passport copy, health certificate, and language proficiency proof. Applications are typically due by July for the September intake. The university participates in Erasmus+ exchanges and maintains partnerships with over 50 countries, including Duke and Cornell Universities in the US.

Sources: Dunarea de Jos University Official Website, QS TopUniversities

Families relocating to Galati will find a range of educational options, from public Romanian schools to private alternatives. While international school options are more limited than in Bucharest, the city provides quality education at all levels.

Romanian Public School System

Education in Romania is compulsory from age 4 to 18, covering kindergarten through high school. Public education is free for residents and follows the national curriculum in Romanian. The school year runs from September to June, divided into two semesters. Foreign children can enroll in public schools even if the class maximum is exceeded, and the Ministry of Education provides Romanian language courses to help integration. Notable schools include School No. 24 (Holy Archangels Michael and Gabriel), the oldest in the county, founded in 1832.

Private and Alternative Options

Galati has limited international school options compared to larger Romanian cities. Families seeking English-language education may consider private kindergartens with foreign language programs or explore schools in Bucharest (approximately 3 hours away) for comprehensive international curricula like the International Baccalaureate or Cambridge IGCSE. Private tutoring is widely available and commonly used to supplement public education, particularly for language support and exam preparation.

Education Costs

Sources: Numbeo, EURAXESS Romania

Galati offers affordable housing options with a variety of neighborhoods to suit different lifestyles. The rental market is considerably cheaper than Romania's major cities, making it attractive for those seeking value.

Popular Neighborhoods

Centru (City Center) is the vibrant heart of Galati, featuring cultural landmarks, restaurants, shops, and excellent transport links. It's ideal for those wanting urban convenience and nightlife access. Țiglina I offers a more residential atmosphere with parks, local eateries, and a glimpse into everyday Romanian life. Mazepa I and II provide a blend of modern amenities and historic character, with trendy bars and diverse dining options. For scenic living, the Dunărea district offers picturesque Danube River views, while Valea Orașului appeals to those seeking a quieter, historic setting.

Rental Market

Renting is straightforward in Galati. Contracts are typically for one year, with a one-month deposit required. Landlords generally expect proof of income or employment. Apartments are commonly available furnished or semi-furnished. Many locals use online platforms like OLX.ro, Imobiliare.ro, and local Facebook groups to find rentals.

Average Monthly Rents

Sources: Numbeo (December 2025)

Galati offers a rich cultural scene and diverse leisure opportunities, from waterfront strolls along Europe's longest urban Danube promenade to world-class theater performances and unique museums.

Cultural Attractions

The Fani Tardini Drama Theatre, built between 1924 and 1941, is Galati's premier performing arts venue, featuring a stunning neoclassical facade with six Doric columns. The Galati Philharmonic Orchestra and Musical Theatre offer regular concerts and shows. For history enthusiasts, the Paul Paltanea History Museum chronicles the region's past from ancient times, while the Visual Arts Museum showcases Romanian and international works. The Natural Sciences Museum Complex includes an aquarium, planetarium, and botanical garden—featuring Romania's only Sensory Garden with a barefoot therapeutic path.

Outdoor Activities and Landmarks

The Danube Promenade (Faleza Dunării) stretches 4 kilometers along the waterfront—the longest of its kind in Europe. It's perfect for walking, cycling, and enjoying riverside cafes. The Telecommunications Tower, standing 150 meters tall, offers panoramic city views and houses a rotating restaurant. Mihai Eminescu Park and Grădina Publică provide green retreats in the city center. The Precista Fortified Church, dating to the 17th century, is Galati's oldest building and a must-visit landmark.

Events and Dining

Annual events include the Danube Waves Festival celebrating local traditions and the International Fanfare Festival "Iosif Ivanovici" honoring the composer of "Waves of the Danube." Local cuisine highlights include Storceac, a traditional Danube fish soup made with sturgeon. The city offers restaurants ranging from traditional Romanian to international fare, particularly concentrated in Centru and along the promenade.

Sources: Romania Tourism, Galati City App

Everyday life in Galati is practical and affordable, with good public transport, accessible amenities, and a relaxed pace compared to larger Romanian cities. The Danube waterfront shapes much of the city's character and recreational life.

Public Transportation

Galati has an extensive public transport network operated by Transurb SA, featuring 3 tram lines, 3 trolleybus lines, and approximately 26 bus routes covering the entire city and suburbs. A single-journey ticket costs RON 2.50-2.75 (valid for 60 minutes), while a monthly pass is approximately RON 115 (~USD 25). Tickets can be purchased at kiosks, via SMS, or through the Transport Galati mobile app. Ridesharing apps Bolt and Uber are available, and taxis are affordable with starting fares around RON 3. Electric scooters from Bolt provide an alternative for shorter trips.

Getting to Galati

Galati does not have a commercial airport. The nearest airports are Bucharest Henri Coanda (OTP) at approximately 240 km and Constanta at 130 km. Train connections link Galati to Bucharest (about 4 hours), Cluj-Napoca, Brașov, and Iași. Several bus companies offer intercity services from the Metropoli Bus Terminal. By car, Galati is easily accessible via national roads, and the new Brăila-Galați bridge—the third-longest suspension bridge in Europe—has improved regional connectivity.

Everyday Essentials

Supermarkets like Kaufland, Lidl, Carrefour, and Auchan provide affordable groceries. Traditional markets sell fresh local produce, including Danube fish specialties. Shopping City Galati is the main mall for retail and entertainment. Internet connectivity is excellent, with broadband costing around RON 37 monthly for unlimited high-speed service. Mobile plans with 10GB+ data average RON 36 per month.

Sources: Transurb Galati, Numbeo

Galati offers one of Romania's most affordable urban lifestyles, with costs significantly lower than Bucharest or Cluj-Napoca. For international residents, the city provides excellent value while maintaining good quality of life.

Monthly Budget: Single Person

A single professional can live comfortably in Galati on a modest budget. The following estimates exclude rent and are based on a moderate lifestyle with occasional dining out and leisure activities.

Monthly Budget: Family of Four

Sources: Numbeo (December 2025)