Romania · Etiquette
Romania — Cultural Etiquette
High power-distance and very low indulgence. Reserved public conduct; respect for hierarchy.
Cultural Dimensions (Hofstede)
PDI
90
IDV
30
MAS
42
UAI
90
LTO
52
IND
20
Source: Hofstede dimension data matrix (geerthofstede.com).
What This Means in Practice
Power Distance
· 90/100Highly hierarchical: defer to age and status; using formal address is the safe default. Providers may expect more deference than you're used to.
Individualism
· 30/100Group-oriented: relationships and references matter more than transactional terms; warm small talk before business is normal.
Achievement Orientation
· 42/100Balanced: assertiveness and care both valued.
Uncertainty Avoidance
· 90/100High uncertainty-avoidance: expect detailed booking processes, written confirmations, and rule-following. Improvising or "playing it by ear" can read as unprofessional.
Indulgence
· 20/100Restrained culture: low-key public conduct expected; flashy displays of pleasure or wealth are read as gauche.
Quick Reference
- Languages: Romanian; English in central Bucharest
- Currency: Romanian Leu (RON)
- Emergency: 112 (universal)
Related
Cultural-dimension scores from the Hofstede dimension data matrix (geerthofstede.com); etiquette specifics curated from local sources, embassy guidance, and community contributions. Last verified April 2026.