The National House of Public Pensions and the National Health Insurance House have published a joint order (no. 64/751/2026) setting new rules for Romanian pensioners domiciled or resident abroad.
In short:
- the health contribution (CASS) is owed on pensions exceeding 3,000 lei;
- the rules apply to pensioners in European Union states, the European Economic Area, the United Kingdom and Switzerland, as well as in countries with which Romania has health agreements;
- you can request an exemption from paying CASS only if you prove that you are already medically insured in the state where you live; a mere statement that you live abroad is not sufficient;
- documents are submitted to the health insurance house corresponding to the territorial pension office, which reviews them within 30 days;
- until confirmation, CASS continues to be withheld from the pension.
Important: anyone who is exempted loses their insured status in the Romanian health system. This means that medical services, subsidised medicines and medical devices are no longer reimbursed in Romania. Any change in your situation must be reported to the insurance house within 15 days.
Before submitting your request, check with your pension or health insurance office which documents apply to you.