To make a Car Leasing in Romania, you go through a specialized company or the leasing subsidiary of a local bank. The best-known players are BCR Leasing, BT Leasing and Impuls Leasing.
You rent a vehicle for a set period of time, often with a call option at the end.
What is leasing?
the leasing is a contract for long-term rental with a call option. It is very common in Romania, for both individuals and businesses. You pay fixed monthly payments every month, and the contract generally lasts between 2 and 5 years.
The main advantage is that the monthly payments correspond to the depreciation of the vehicle based on the lease term, not the total cost. So you get to drive a better car for less than you would with a traditional auto loan.
There are two main options:
- financial leasing : You pay a residual value at the end of the contract to become the owner of the vehicle.
- Operational leasing : closer to a car rental It's straightforward—there's no automatic purchase at the end. You either return the vehicle or sign a new contract.
The contract specifies right from the reservation the terms of mileage authorized, the terms and conditions of vehicle delivery and the rules for restitution at the end of the contract. Some organizations also include a roadside assistance to ensure your mobility in the event of a breakdown.
For a business, leasing offers a significant tax advantage. The VAT is deductible from 50 % in the case of mixed use, and up to 100 % for strictly professional use. This is one of the reasons for its popularity among Romanian companies.
If you're interested in leasing in other European countries, you can also check out the guides dedicated to Poland, at the’Germany or at the’Italy.
Where can I find a leasing company in Romania?
Leasing companies are located in all major Romanian cities. You'll find branches in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timișoara, Iași, Constanța, Sibiu, Brașov, Craiova, Bacău and Arad.
This type of contract covers most of the motor vehicles : passenger cars, SUV, utility vehicles, or motorcycles. If you plan to drive outside of Romania, particularly in Hungary or in other neighboring countries, make sure your contract explicitly allows you to use the vehicle abroad.
When should you buy a leased car?
In Romania, you can buy back your vehicle before the end of the contract thanks to early redemption clauses. Most leasing companies allow this after the First 12 months rental agreement. Before you get started, carefully read the terms and conditions in your contract.
The ideal time depends on the type of lease you choose:
- In financial leasing, the purchase is made at the residual value defined in advance at the time of signing.
- In operational leasing, redemption is not automatic and depends on the organization's offer.
Each organization has its own buyback policy. Take the time to compare the expenses and the time frames before making a decision.
Beware of late payments : If you miss a monthly payment, the leasing company will charge you penalties The amount is listed in the appendix to your contract. Keep it handy.
How do I change the name on the vehicle registration after buying out a leased car?
Throughout the rental period, the car stays at the Name of the leasing company. On the day you buy back the vehicle at its residual value, you must transfer the registration to your name.
The competent authority is the DRPCIV (Direcția Regim Permise de Conducere și Înmatriculare a Vehiculelor), the Romanian equivalent of the vehicle registration office. You can complete the necessary procedures at the local office in your city, whether it's in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timișoara or elsewhere.
To change the account holder, please provide the following documents:
- the lease agreement and the proof of redemption (final invoice from the organization); ;
- your ID (carte de identitate) or passport; ;
- the former registration certificate and the vehicle registration card; ;
- mandatory insurance RCA up to date; ;
- proof of payment for the registration tax.
Take this step from the very first month within a certain period after the purchase. After that period, you risk a fine. Once the application is approved, you’ll receive a new registration certificate in your name, and you’re free to keep the car or resell it to the market price.
FAQs
Is it possible to lease a car in Romania without a down payment?
Some organizations offer deals with no down payment, but a first rent increase This is a common question. It depends on your background and the company you choose.
What is the minimum term of a lease agreement in Romania?
The minimum duration is generally 24 months. Most contracts last between 2 and 5 years, depending on the provider and the vehicle.
Is leasing in Romania available to foreigners?
A foreign national may be eligible for a lease, but the terms vary by provider. A residence permit and a Romanian banking history are often required.
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