Your Complete Guide to the Romania Work Visa: Requirements, Process, and Job Opportunities

Romania is rapidly emerging as one of Eastern Europe’s most attractive destinations for foreign workers. With strong economic growth, expanding manufacturing and construction sectors, and a growing shortage of local labour, Romania offers thousands of genuine job opportunities for workers from Asia, Africa, and non-EU countries.

Whether you are seeking stable employment, long-term residence in Europe, or a legal pathway into the European Union workforce, a Romanian work visa can provide a secure and rewarding future.

This guide explains everything you need to know in a clear, practical, and human way—based on official rules and real-world processes.

Why Apply for a Romania Work Visa?

Romania actively recruits foreign workers to fill labour shortages across multiple industries. A legal Romanian work visa allows you to live and work safely while building long-term prospects in the EU.

Step-by-Step Romania Work Visa Process

Step 1: Secure a job offer from a registered Romanian employer

Only employers authorised by the Romanian Inspectorate General for Immigration (IGI) can hire non-EU foreign nationals.

Step 2: Employer applies for your Romanian Work Authorisation

The employer applies to the Inspectorate General for Immigration (IGI) in Romania.

Step 3: Receive the approved work authorisation

Once approved, the employer sends you the original work authorisation document.

Step 4: Book an appointment at the Romanian Embassy or VFS

Could you choose a suitable date to submit your visa application and biometrics?

Step 5: Submit documents and attend biometrics

All required documents must be presented accurately and completely.

Step 6: Attend the visa interview

You may be asked about your employer, job duties, work location, and plans in Romania.

Step 7: Receive visa decision and travel to Romania

After approval, the long-stay work visa is stamped in your passport, allowing legal entry and employment.

Romania Work Visa From Abroad

A Romanian work visa permits non-EU nationals to enter and work legally in Romania for a registered employer.

Most applicants apply from their home country through the Romanian Embassy or authorised visa centres.

The process always begins with the employer, who must obtain work authorisation in Romania before you can apply for a visa.

Types of Romanian Work Permits

Romania issues different work authorisations based on employment type:

1. Permanent Worker Permit

For foreigners employed under a standard employment contract in Romania.

This is the most commonly issued permit.

2. Seasonal Worker Permit

Issued for short-term employment in sectors like agriculture, tourism, and food processing.

3. Highly Skilled Worker Permit

For professionals with advanced qualifications and higher salary thresholds.

4. ICT (Intra-Company Transfer) Permit

For employees transferred from a non-EU company branch to Romania.

5. Long-Stay D/AM Work Visa

This is the visa stamped in your passport after work authorisation approval.

Benefits of a Romanian Work Permit

• Legal right to live and work in Romania
• Opportunity to apply for a Temporary Residence Permit
• Access to EU-standard labour protections
• Stable income with formal employment contracts
• Pathway to long-term residence
• Possibility of family reunification
• Lower cost of living compared to Western Europe
• Future mobility within the EU (subject to regulations)

Eligibility for a Romania Work Visa

To qualify, you must meet the following conditions:

• Valid job offer from an authorised Romanian employer
• Approved work authorisation from IGI
• Relevant skills or experience for the job
• Clean criminal record
• Proof of accommodation in Romania
• Valid passport
• Medical fitness certificate

Romania Work Visa Requirements

Most applicants are required to submit:

• Valid passport (minimum 12 months validity)
• Completed long-stay visa application form
• Passport-size photographs
• Original Romanian work authorisation
• Signed employment contract
• Proof of accommodation
• Medical insurance
• Police clearance certificate
• Visa fee payment receipt
• Cover letter explaining work purpose

The embassy may request additional documents.

How to Apply for a Romania Work Visa (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Find a genuine Romanian employer

Could you make sure the employer is legally registered and authorised to hire foreigners?

Step 2: Employer applies for work authorisation

The application is submitted to the Inspectorate General for Immigration (IGI).

Step 3: Receive approved work authorisation

The original document is sent to you by the employer.

Step 4: Book an embassy or VFS appointment

Submit your application in your country of residence.

Step 5: Submit documents and biometrics

Please make sure the documents are correct.

Step 6: Attend a visa interview

Be prepared to explain your job role and employer details.

Step 7: Visa approval and travel

Once approved, you can legally travel to Romania and start work.

Tips to Avoid Romania Work Visa Rejection

• Avoid unregistered agents and fake employers
• Submit only genuine documents
• Match job role with your experience
• Verify employer credentials
• Avoid inconsistent or false information
• Prepare thoroughly for the interview
• Keep passport validity sufficient

Top In-Demand Jobs in Romania

Occupation	Monthly Salary (EUR)	Requirements	Suitable For
Factory Worker	€700 – €1,100	No experience required	Entry-level
Warehouse Worker	€750 – €1,200	Physical fitness	Beginners
Machine Operator	€1,000 – €1,500	Technical skills	Semi-skilled
Forklift Operator	€900 – €1,400	Forklift licence	Logistics workers
Truck Driver (C/CE)	€1,400 – €2,200	Valid licence + experience	Drivers
Construction Worker	€900 – €1,500	Physical ability	Labour workers
Welder	€1,200 – €1,800	Certification	Skilled workers
Electrician	€1,200 – €1,900	Technical qualification	Professionals
Plumber	€1,100 – €1,800	Trade experience	Skilled trades
Hotel Staff	€700 – €1,100	Basic English	Hospitality
Cook / Chef	€1,000 – €1,700	Kitchen experience	Culinary staff
Cleaner	€650 – €1,000	No experience	Entry-level
Caregiver	€850 – €1,300	Basic training	Support workers
Nurse	€1,300 – €2,200	Nursing qualification	Healthcare
IT Support	€1,400 – €2,500	IT background	IT workers
Software Developer	€2,000 – €4,000	Programming skills	Professionals

Romania’s Most In-Demand Job Sectors

1. Manufacturing & Industrial Production

Automotive parts, electronics, textiles, and food processing factories hire foreign workers year-round.

2. Warehousing & Logistics

Romania is a key transport hub linking Eastern and Western Europe.

3. Construction & Skilled Trades

Infrastructure projects drive demand for welders, electricians, and labourers.

4. Hospitality & Tourism

Hotels, resorts, and restaurants hire seasonal and permanent staff.

5. Healthcare

Nurses and caregivers are in high demand due to labour shortages.

6. Information Technology

Romania has a growing tech industry, with international companies operating there.

Romania Work Visa Processing Time

• Work Authorisation (IGI): 30–60 days
• Visa Processing (Embassy): 15–30 days
• Total Estimated Timeline: 1.5–3 months

Processing times depend on the embassy's workload and the accuracy of the documents.

Romania Work Visa Cost

Typical expenses include:

• Visa Fee: €120
• Medical Insurance: €20 – €40
• Document Translation & Legalisation: €30 – €70
• VFS Service Charges: Varies
• The employer usually pays work authorisation fees.

How to Find Jobs Through Official Government Portals in Romania

Romania provides official platforms to help foreign workers find verified and legal employment. Using government portals ensures safety, transparency, and compliance with labour laws.

Official Romanian Job Portal

National Agency for Employment (ANOFM)

Website: https://www.anofm.ro

Provides:

• Verified job listings
• Labour market information
• Employer registration details
• Regional employment offices

European Union Job Portal (EURES)

Website: https://eures.ec.europa.eu

Provides:

• EU-verified job listings
• Living and working condition guidance
• Official advisors support

Romanian Work Authorisation Portal

Inspectorate General for Immigration (IGI)

Website: https://igi.mai.gov.ro

Provides:

• Work permit rules
• Employer obligations
• Permit types and procedures

Temporary Residence Permit Information

Website: https://igi.mai.gov.ro/rezidenta

Explains:

• Residence permit application
• Required documents
• Renewal and legal stay rules

Official Romanian Visa Information

Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Website: https://www.mae.ro

Provides:

• Visa categories
• Application procedures
• Embassy contacts

How Can M2S Group Sp. z o.o. Help You?

M2S Group Sp. z o.o. is a trusted European immigration support company providing transparent, ethical, and personalised assistance.

Our services include:

• Free eligibility assessment
• Career consultation
• Romania work visa guidance
• Document preparation support
• EU job search assistance
• End-to-end application support

Whether you aim to work in Romania or explore long-term EU opportunities, our team ensures accurate guidance at every step.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Romanian Work Visa

1. What is a Romanian work visa?

A Romanian work visa is a long-stay Type D national visa that allows non-EU nationals to enter Romania for employment and later obtain a residence permit authorising legal work and long-term stay.

2. Who needs a Romanian work visa to work legally?

All citizens of non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss countries must obtain a Romanian work visa and residence permit before starting employment.

3. Is Romania part of the European Union?

Yes. Romania is an EU member state, but it is not yet fully part of the Schengen Area.

4. What is the central work permit system in Romania?

Romania issues a Work Authorisation followed by a Single Permit for Residence and Work.

5. Is a job offer mandatory for a Romanian work visa?

Yes. A confirmed job offer or signed employment contract from a Romanian employer is mandatory.

6. Who applies for the work authorisation in Romania—the employer or the employee?

The employer applies for the work authorisation, while the employee applies for the visa at the embassy.

7. What are the main types of Romanian work permits?

Common categories include:

• Work Authorisation (standard employment)
• EU Blue Card
• Seasonal Work Permit
• Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Permit
• Trainee Permit

8. What documents are required for a Romanian work visa?

Applicants usually need:

• Valid passport
• Type D visa application form
• Approved work authorisation
• Employment contract
• Proof of accommodation
• Police clearance certificate
• Health insurance
• Medical certificate
• Passport-size photographs
• Visa fee receipt

9. How long does Romania's work permit processing take?

Work authorisation processing usually takes 30–45 days, depending on the authority workload.

10. How long does visa processing take at the Romanian embassy?

Visa processing typically takes 15–30 days after work authorisation approval.

11. How long is a Romanian work visa valid?

The Type D visa is usually issued for up to 90 days, allowing entry to apply for a residence permit.

12. Can I extend my stay in Romania?

Yes. Upon arrival, you apply for a residence permit, which is usually valid for 1 year and is renewable.

13. Can I change employers in Romania?

Yes, but a new work authorisation is required and must be approved before changing jobs.

14. What is the Romanian residence permit for employment?

It is a biometric residence card allowing a foreign national to live and work legally in Romania.

15. What is the EU Blue Card in Romania?

The EU Blue Card allows highly qualified professionals to work in Romania with better mobility and residence conditions.

16. Is biometric registration required for Romanian work visas?

Yes. Biometrics are collected when applying for a residence permit in Romania.

17. Is a criminal background certificate required?

Yes. A clean police clearance certificate from the home country is mandatory.

18. Is health insurance mandatory for Romanian work visas?

Yes. Health insurance is required until registration with Romania’s public healthcare system is completed.

19. Are medical tests required for Romania work visas?

Yes. A medical certificate confirming good health is generally required.

20. Do I need to speak Romanian to work in Romania?

Romanian language skills are helpful but not mandatory for many jobs, especially in factories, construction, logistics, and IT.

21. Which industries hire the most foreign workers in Romania?

High-demand sectors include:

• Manufacturing & factories
• Construction & skilled trades
• Logistics & transport
• Agriculture & seasonal work
• Hospitality & tourism
• Information technology

22. Is Romania a good destination for foreign workers?

Yes. Romania offers growing job demand, relatively low living costs, and EU residence benefits.

23. Can I bring my family to Romania on a work visa?

Yes. Romania allows family reunification for spouses and dependent children.

24. Can my spouse work in Romania?

Yes. Spouses can apply for labour market access after receiving residence status.

25. Can I work in other EU countries with a Romanian work visa?

No. Employment rights apply only in Romania.

26. Can I travel within Schengen with a Romanian work visa?

No. Romania is not yet part of the Schengen Area, so Schengen travel requires separate visas.

27. What is the minimum wage in Romania?

Romania’s minimum wage is approximately €650–€700 gross per month, depending on annual updates.

28. Does Romania pay overtime?

Yes. Over time, night work, weekends, and public holidays are compensated under Romanian labour law.

29. Do Romanian employers provide accommodation?

Many employers, especially in construction and manufacturing, provide free or subsidised accommodation.

30. Are meals or food allowances provided by employers?

Some employers provide meal vouchers or food allowances.

31. What happens if my employer cancels the job offer?

Your visa or residence permit may be cancelled unless a new employer secures fresh authorisation.

32. Do Romanian authorities verify job offers?

Yes. Employment contracts and employer registrations are strictly verified.

33. Are bank statements required for Romania work visas?

Some embassies may request proof of financial means.

34. Can I apply for a Romanian work visa without an agent?

Yes. Romania allows direct applications through the official embassy and immigration procedures.

35. What are standard working hours in Romania?

The standard workweek is 40 hours, with regulated overtime.

36. Does Romania allow fixed-term employment contracts?

Yes. Fixed-term contracts are standard, especially for seasonal and project-based work.

37. Can I apply for permanent residence in Romania?

Yes. After 5 years of continuous legal residence, you may apply for permanent residence.

38. Can international students in Romania switch to work permits?

Yes. Graduates can switch to employment-based residence permits after securing a job.

39. Is there an age limit for Romanian work visas?

There is no official age limit. Employment suitability and legal compliance matter most.

40. Can I work part-time on a Romanian work visa?

Only if your work authorisation and residence permit allow part-time employment.

41. Which authority issues Romanian work permits?

Work authorisations are issued by the Romanian Immigration Inspectorate (IGI).

42. Can I start working immediately after arriving in Romania?

Yes, once your residence permit application is submitted and employment registration is completed.

43. Do I need to register my address in Romania?

Yes. Address registration is mandatory for residence permits and tax purposes.

44. Are seasonal work permits available in Romania?

Yes. Seasonal permits are widely used in agriculture, hospitality, and tourism.

45. Can I start a business on a Romanian work visa?

No. Business activities require a self-employment or investor residence permit.

46. Who pays the Romanian work permit fees?

Employers usually pay work authorisation fees; applicants pay visa fees.

47. How long does the complete Romania work visa process take?

The complete process usually takes 2–3 months, depending on the authority workload.

48. Do documents need to be translated for Romania?

Yes. Documents must be translated into Romanian by certified translators.

49. Can I switch from a work visa to permanent residence in Romania?

Yes. After meeting the residence duration and legal requirements, permanent residence can be granted.

50. Is Romania suitable for long-term settlement?

Yes. Romania offers EU residence rights, affordable living, family reunification, and clear pathways to permanent residence and citizenship.