Understanding Housing Pathways for Ukrainian Refugees in Romania: Insights from SMART UA Research

23 March 2026

Access to stable housing is one of the most decisive factors shaping the integration pathways of refugees. Within the SMART UA project, dedicated research conducted in Romania explored how Ukrainian refugees access housing and how institutions, organizations and local actors respond to these needs.

The research combined two complementary perspectives. On the one hand, an institutional mapping examined the network of actors involved in supporting access to housing. On the other hand, a market analysis investigated how refugees navigate the housing market in practice and what challenges they encounter when trying to secure stable accommodation.

The mapping exercise highlighted the diversity of actors engaged in housing-related support, including local authorities, civil society organisations and social service providers. While a range of initiatives exist, the findings show that much of the current support remains short-term or project based. Assistance frequently focuses on temporary accommodation, information provision, mediation with landlords or limited financial support, leaving important gaps when it comes to long-term housing solutions.

At the same time, the market analysis sheds light on the lived experience of refugees navigating the housing system. Many Ukrainian refugees rely heavily on the private rental market, often covering housing costs largely from their own resources. Financial pressure, unstable income and fluctuations in rental prices make it difficult for many households to maintain stable housing over time.

The research also highlights several structural barriers that contribute to housing insecurity. Informal rental arrangements, discrimination and language barriers can complicate access to secure housing and make it harder for refugees to negotiate contracts or understand administrative procedures.

To deepen the analysis, consultations with practitioners and institutional stakeholders helped capture practical insights from those working directly with refugees. These discussions explored questions such as the main barriers to safe housing, the types of institutional responses currently available and which support models have proven most effective in practice. The exchanges contributed valuable qualitative insights that complement the research findings.

Despite the challenges identified, the research also documents examples of promising approaches. Mediation between tenants and landlords, integrated housing and social support services, and targeted assistance for vulnerable households demonstrate how coordinated interventions can help improve housing stability.

Ultimately, the research confirms that housing is not only a basic need but also a key foundation for broader social inclusion. Stable housing conditions influence refugees’ ability to access employment, education and healthcare, making housing policies and support mechanisms a critical component of long-term integration strategies.

By bringing together institutional mapping, market analysis and stakeholder consultations, the SMART UA research contributes to building a clearer picture of the housing landscape for Ukrainian refugees in Romania. These insights provide an important evidence base to inform future cooperation between institutions, civil society and other stakeholders working to strengthen housing support systems.