Romania will no longer pay the first day of medical leave, effective 1 February 2026, under OUG 91/2025, part of a budget‑cut package. The change moves the paid‑leave threshold from day 6 to day 7, meaning employees lose one day of income each time they take sick leave. Employers will still cover days 2‑6, and from day 7 the state health budget will reimburse. The move is expected to create procedural challenges for firms but not major financial hits. Experts warn that the unpaid day may push workers to return to work while ill, risking contagion. The law also changes compensation rates: up to 7 days - 55 % of base, 8‑14 days - 65 %, over 15 days - 75 %. The first day remains a covered period for social insurance purposes. The measure is part of a broader effort to reduce health‑budget expenditure through 31 December 2027.

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