Romania, a member of the European Union since 2007, has become an increasingly attractive destination for foreign workers seeking new opportunities in Eastern Europe. Known for its growing economy, strategic location, and competitive wages, Romania offers numerous employment prospects across various industries such as IT, manufacturing, healthcare, and construction. However, if you are not a citizen of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland, you must obtain a Romanian work permit before legally working in the country.
This comprehensive guide explores how you can obtain a Romanian work permit, including eligibility requirements, application procedures, types of permits, costs, processing times, and legal obligations. Whether you’re an individual seeking employment or an employer looking to hire foreign talent, this article provides all the information you need to successfully navigate Romania’s work permit process.
Who Needs a Romanian Work Permit?
Foreign nationals from non-EU/EEA countries must apply for a Romanian work permit to legally work in the country. EU/EEA and Swiss citizens are exempt from this requirement and can work in Romania under the same conditions as Romanian citizens.
Exceptions to the Work Permit Requirement
Certain categories of foreigners do not require a Romanian work permit. These include:
- Permanent residents in Romania
- Holders of long-term EU resident status in another EU state
- Beneficiaries of international protection (asylum seekers)
- Family members of Romanian or EU/EEA/Swiss citizens
- Individuals employed in artistic, cultural, or academic activities, under specific agreements
Types of Romanian Work Permits
Romania offers several types of work permits depending on the nature of the employment. The most common categories include:
1. Work Permit for Permanent Employees
Issued for full-time jobs with Romanian employers, valid for the duration of the employment contract.
2. Work Permit for Seasonal Workers
Designed for short-term employment in sectors like agriculture, valid for up to 6 months within a 12-month period.
3. Work Permit for Cross-Border Workers
For individuals living in neighboring countries and working in Romania regularly.
4. Work Permit for Highly Skilled Workers
For professionals in specialized fields who meet specific education and salary thresholds. These permits are typically valid for longer periods and allow for faster family reunification.
5. Work Permit for Intra-Company Transfers
Granted to employees transferred from a foreign company to its Romanian branch or subsidiary.
6. Work Permit for Seconded Workers
For employees sent to Romania on temporary assignments by companies based outside the country.
7. Work Permit for Trainees
Targeted at foreign nationals participating in internship or training programs.
Eligibility Criteria for a Romanian Work Permit
Before applying for a work permit, you must meet the following conditions:
- The Romanian employer must demonstrate that the position cannot be filled by a Romanian, EU, EEA, or Swiss citizen.
- You must have appropriate qualifications, experience, or education for the job.
- The job must match Romania’s national labor market needs.
- The employer must be registered and not have legal violations related to labor laws.
- You must not have a criminal record and must be medically fit for work.
Application Procedure for a Romanian Work Permit
The process of obtaining a Romanian work permit generally involves the employer initiating the application on behalf of the foreign national.
Step 1: Job Offer from a Romanian Employer
You must first secure a job offer from a Romanian-based employer. The employer must then initiate the application process with the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI).
Step 2: Labor Market Test (for most categories)
Before submitting the application, the employer must conduct a labor market test to prove that no suitable Romanian or EU citizen is available for the position. This step may be waived for highly skilled workers, intra-company transfers, and certain other categories.
Step 3: Submission of Application by the Employer
The employer submits the work permit application to the IGI, accompanied by documents such as:
- Proof of the company’s legal status
- Job description and employment contract
- Copy of the foreign national’s passport
- Proof of qualifications and work experience
- Medical certificate
- Criminal record certificate
- Proof of payment of applicable fees
Step 4: Processing Time
The IGI typically processes work permit applications within 30 days. If additional documents are required, the timeline may extend up to 45 days.
Step 5: Work Permit Issuance
If approved, the IGI issues the work permit, which is then forwarded to the employer and the foreign national. The foreigner can now apply for a long-stay work visa.
Applying for a Romanian Long-Stay Work Visa (D/AM)
Once the work permit is issued, the foreign worker must apply for a long-stay visa (type D/AM) at a Romanian consulate or embassy in their home country. The application must include:
- Completed visa application form
- Valid passport
- Work permit issued by IGI
- Proof of accommodation in Romania
- Health insurance
- Proof of financial means
- Recent passport-sized photos
The long-stay visa is typically valid for 90 days and allows you to enter Romania for the purpose of obtaining a residence permit.
Obtaining a Residence Permit in Romania
After entering Romania, you must apply for a residence permit from the General Inspectorate for Immigration within 90 days. Required documents include:
- Application form
- Passport and visa
- Employment contract
- Proof of accommodation
- Health insurance
- Medical certificate
The residence permit is usually issued for the duration of the work contract, up to one year, and can be renewed.
Costs Associated with the Romanian Work Permit
The following fees apply:
- Work permit issuance: approximately EUR 100–150
- Long-stay visa: EUR 120
- Residence permit: around EUR 60
Additional administrative or translation fees may apply depending on the documents submitted.
Rights and Responsibilities of Work Permit Holders
As a holder of a Romanian work permit, you are entitled to:
- Legal employment and protection under Romanian labor law
- Social security and healthcare benefits
- Possibility of family reunification after a certain period
- Pathway to permanent residency or citizenship after several years
However, you are also required to:
- Work only in the position and company specified in the work permit
- Maintain legal residence status
- Notify authorities of changes in employment, address, or personal details
Renewal and Extension of Work Permits
If you wish to continue working in Romania after your initial permit expires, you must apply for renewal before the expiration date. The process is similar to the original application and includes submission of updated employment and residence documents.
Changing Employers in Romania
If you change employers, your current work permit becomes invalid. Your new employer must apply for a new work permit. You cannot start working for the new employer until the new permit and updated residence documents are issued.
Can You Bring Your Family to Romania?
Yes, work permit holders can apply for family reunification, usually after residing legally in Romania for at least one year. Eligible family members include:
- Spouse
- Minor children
- Dependent parents in special cases
Permanent Residency and Citizenship
After living in Romania for five continuous years on a work-based residence permit, you may apply for permanent residency. Citizenship is available after eight years of legal residence (or five years if married to a Romanian citizen).
Conclusion
Getting a Romanian work permit may seem complex, but with proper preparation, it is a manageable and rewarding process. By securing a job offer, ensuring your documents are complete, and following the legal procedures, you can begin a new chapter of your professional life in Romania. Whether you are pursuing high-skilled employment, seasonal work, or an intra-company transfer, Romania offers diverse opportunities for those ready to work and contribute to its dynamic labor market.
We hope this guide has clarified how you can get a Romanian work permit and begin your journey toward living and working legally in Romania.
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