Who Needs a Work Permit in Romania
Non-European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or Swiss Confederation citizens require a work permit to be employed legally in Romania. Employers must ensure that these individuals obtain the necessary authorization before commencing employment. However, citizens from EU/EEA countries and Switzerland enjoy the same labor rights as Romanian citizens and do not need a work permit.
Types of Work Visas in Romania
Romania offers various work visas tailored to different employment scenarios. Employers should identify the appropriate visa type that aligns with the nature of employment for their prospective international employees.
Visa Type | Description |
Long-Stay Visa for Employment (D/AM) | For non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals with a Romanian work permit, allowing stays beyond 90 days. |
Long-Stay Visa for Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) | For employees of multinational companies transferring to Romanian branches. |
Long-Stay Visa for Highly Skilled Workers | For professionals in highly qualified positions, requiring proof of qualifications and a higher salary threshold. |
Long-Stay Visa for Seasonal Workers | For temporary employment in sectors like agriculture or tourism during peak seasons. |
Digital Nomad Visa | For remote workers employed by non-Romanian companies, allowing them to live in Romania while working remotely. |
Common Hiring Scenarios for Romania
When hiring talent in Romania, employers typically choose one of three pathways depending on the role, duration, & legal requirements. Below are the most common models.
Use Case 1: Sponsoring a Foreign Employee via Work Permit or Visa
This is the most common route for companies hiring full-time foreign talent in Romania. To sponsor this visa, an employer (or Playroll as the Employer of Record) must have a registered legal entity in-country and issue a compliant offer of employment.
Key Employer Considerations:
- Sponsorship is required — contractors or freelancers cannot apply under this visa.
- Employees must remain in the approved work location unless authorized to relocate or change employers.
- Processing timelines vary (approximately 30 days), depending on the consulate or embassy.
This is best for: Long-term roles with in-office or hybrid presence in Romania.
Use Case 2: Hiring a Foreign Contractor in Romania
Independent professionals in Romania can legally work with international clients without employer sponsorship, but must comply with local tax registration and reporting laws.
With Playroll’s Contractor Management solution, you can:
- Draft fully compliant local contractor agreements.
- Automate contractor invoicing and cross-border payments, in Saudi Riyal (SAR) or USD.
- Mitigate risk of permanent establishment and contractor misclassification.
This is best for: Freelancers, consultants or project-based roles, especially if the worker already lives in Romania.
Use Case 3: Relocating an Existing Employee to Romania
Transferring an existing team member to Romania? You’ll still need to navigate the same visa and payroll setup process. Even if the employee works for you elsewhere, a local employer of record is required to stay compliant.
EOR’s, like Playroll, handle all local steps, including:
- Work permit sponsorship and immigration paperwork,
- Registration with local authorities and payroll systems,
- Enrollment in mandatory benefits and statutory schemes.
This is best for: Internal transfers or remote-first companies looking to expand into Middle East, or talent retention offerings for global mobility programs.
Requirements For a Work Permit in Romania
To obtain a work permit in Romania, specific criteria must be met to ensure compliance with immigration and labor laws.
- Employer's Legal Activity: The employer must conduct legitimate operations in Romania and demonstrate that the position cannot be filled by Romanian or EU/EEA citizens.
- Employee's Qualifications: The prospective employee should possess the necessary professional qualifications and experience relevant to the job.
- Medical Fitness: The employee must provide a medical certificate confirming their capability to perform job duties.
- Clean Criminal Record: A criminal record certificate from the employee's country of residence is required to ensure no legal impediments to employment.
- Valid Travel Document: The employee must hold a valid passport or travel document.
Romania Work Permit Application Process
- Obtain a Work Permit: The employer applies to the Romanian Inspectorate General for Immigration (IGI) on behalf of the employee, providing necessary documentation and justifications.
- Apply for a Long-Stay Visa: Upon receiving the work permit, the employee must apply for a long-stay employment visa (D/AM) at a Romanian consulate or embassy in their home country.
- Enter Romania and Register: After visa approval, the employee enters Romania and must register with local authorities to obtain a temporary residence permit.
Process for Visa Sponsorship In Romania
Visa sponsorship in Romania requires employers to initiate the work permit application on behalf of the foreign employee. This involves demonstrating the necessity of hiring a non-EU/EEA/Swiss national by proving that the position cannot be filled locally. Employers must ensure compliance with all legal requirements, including maintaining records of the employee's legal status and employment terms.
What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in Romania
Fees associated with work permits and visas in Romania vary based on the visa type.
Visa Type | Application Fee |
Long-Stay Employment Visa (D/AM) | €120 |
Digital Nomad Visa | €120 |
Processing Time for a Work Permit Or Visa in Romania
The processing time for a work permit in Romania is approximately 30 days. Once the work permit is issued, the employee has 60 days to apply for the long-stay employment visa, which typically takes 10 to 14 days to process.
Work Permit Renewal Periods in Romania
Work permits in Romania are generally valid for one year and can be renewed annually, provided the employment relationship continues, and all legal requirements are met. Employers must apply for renewal before the current permit expires to ensure uninterrupted legal employment status.
Visa Requirements For Digital Nomads in Romania
Romania offers a Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers employed by companies registered outside Romania. Applicants must meet specific criteria to qualify.
- Income Requirement: Demonstrate a monthly income of at least €3,700 for the six months preceding the application.
- Proof of Remote Employment: Provide evidence of employment with a non-Romanian company.
- Health Insurance: Obtain health insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000.
- Clean Criminal Record: Submit a criminal record certificate.
- Proof of Accommodation: Show proof of accommodation in Romania.
Common Challenges and Tips for Employers Hiring in Romania
Employers may face several challenges when hiring foreign workers in Romania. Understanding these issues can help streamline the process.
- Complex Administrative Procedures: Navigating Romania's work permit processes requires diligence and thorough documentation.
- Language Barriers: Language differences may impact workplace communication and integration.
- Cultural Differences: Differences in workplace culture can lead to misunderstandings if not managed effectively.
- Tip: Engage specialized recruitment agencies, offer language training, and implement cultural sensitivity programs to support foreign employees.