Romanian Work Permit 2026: Complete Guide for Non-EU Citizens & Employers

TL;DR

Non-EU citizens need a work permit (aviz de muncă) and a long-stay visa to work legally in Romania. Processing takes 30-45 days, costs start at €100 for the permit fee, and employers must prove no suitable EU candidate was available. Romania's 2026 quota allows 100,000 foreign workers.

Overview: Working in Romania as a Non-EU Citizen

Romania has become an increasingly attractive destination for foreign workers, with the government significantly expanding work permit quotas to address labor shortages across key sectors. In 2026, Romania's annual quota for non-EU workers stands at 100,000 permits, reflecting the country's growing economy and demand for skilled professionals. The Romanian work authorization system is governed by OUG 194/2002 (as amended) on the regime of foreigners in Romania and Legea nr. 156/2000 on the protection of Romanian citizens working abroad.

Who Needs a Work Permit?

A work permit is required for all third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens) who wish to engage in employment activities in Romania. EU/EEA citizens and Swiss nationals have the right to work freely under EU freedom of movement rules. Exemptions from work permit requirements include:

• Permanent residents of Romania
• Family members of Romanian or EU citizens (with a residence card)
• Refugees and beneficiaries of subsidiary protection
• Students working part-time (up to 4 hours/day)
• Researchers with a hosting agreement
• ICT transferees covered by Directive 2014/66/EU

Types of Work Permits in Romania

1.

Standard Employment Permit (Aviz de Muncă pentru Lucrători Permanenți)

The most common type, issued for full-time employment with a Romanian employer under an individual employment contract.

2.

Secondment/Posted Worker Permit (Aviz pentru Lucrători Detașați)

For employees of foreign companies temporarily assigned to work in Romania.

3.

Seasonal Worker Permit

For temporary agricultural, tourism, or hospitality work.

4.

Highly Qualified Worker Permit (EU Blue Card)

For professionals with higher education qualifications earning above the salary threshold.

5.

Intra-Corporate Transferee (ICT) Permit

For managers, specialists, and trainees transferred within a multinational company.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Employer Initiates Labor Market Test (30 Days)

The Romanian employer must:

• Register the vacancy with the local employment agency (AJOFM)
• Publish the job opening for at least 30 calendar days
• Demonstrate that no suitable EU/EEA candidate applied

Step 2: Employer Applies for Work Permit

Submit to the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI):

• Application form (standard template)
• Company registration documents (certificat constatator from ONRC)
• Tax compliance certificate (ANAF)
• Proof of labor market test completion
• Job description and draft employment contract
• Copy of the employee's passport and qualifications
• Criminal record certificate (apostilled)
• Medical fitness certificate

Step 3: Work Permit Issuance (30 Days)

IGI reviews the application and issues the work permit (aviz de muncă) within 30 calendar days. The permit is sent to the employer.

Step 4: Employee Applies for Long-Stay Visa (Type D)

The foreign worker applies at the Romanian embassy/consulate in their country of residence for a long-stay visa (viză de lungă ședere) for the purpose of employment. Required documents:

• Valid passport (minimum validity of 6 months)
• Copy of the work permit
• Employment contract
• Proof of accommodation in Romania
• Travel insurance
• Visa fee (~€120)

Step 5: Entry and Residence Permit

After arriving in Romania, the worker must apply for a temporary residence permit within 30 days at the local IGI office. The residence permit is issued for the duration of the work permit.

Cost Breakdown

Employer Obligations

Romanian employers hiring non-EU workers must:

Processing Timeline

Renewal and Extension

Work permits can be renewed for additional periods of up to 1 year. The renewal application must be filed at least 30 days before the current permit expires. Requirements are similar to those for the initial application, but a new labor market test may not be required if the position and employer remain the same.

Common Reasons for Rejection

Special Programs and Bilateral Agreements

Romania has bilateral labor agreements with several countries that may simplify the process:

• Republic of Moldova
• Ukraine
• Vietnam
• Sri Lanka
• Nepal
• Pakistan
• Philippines

Workers from these countries may benefit from streamlined procedures and dedicated quotas.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does it take to get a work permit in Romania?

The entire process — from the labor market test to the residence permit — typically takes 3 to 5 months. The work permit itself is processed in 30 calendar days.

Can I change employers with a Romanian work permit?

Yes, but you need a new work permit issued for the new employer. You cannot work for an employer not listed on your permit.

What is Romania's work permit quota for 2026?

Romania's 2026 quota allows 100,000 non-EU workers, covering all permit types and sectors.

Do EU citizens need a work permit for Romania?

No. EU/EEA citizens and Swiss nationals can work freely in Romania without a permit under EU freedom of movement rules.

Can my family join me in Romania?

Yes. Work permit holders can apply for family reunification after obtaining their residence permit. EU Blue Card holders have immediate family reunification rights.

What happens if my work permit expires while my renewal is pending?

You may continue to work legally while the renewal application is pending, provided it was filed before the expiration of the current permit.

Is there a minimum salary requirement?

For standard permits, the salary must be at least the national minimum gross wage (~€620/month in 2026). An EU Blue Card requires a salary of 1.5x the national average gross salary.

Can I get permanent residence through work?

Yes. After 5 years of continuous legal residence in Romania (including on work permits), you can apply for long-term/permanent residence.

What penalties exist for illegal employment?

Employers face fines of €6,000-12,000 per illegal worker and potential criminal prosecution. The foreign worker faces deportation and a re-entry ban of up to 5 years.

Do I need to speak Romanian to work in Romania?

There is no legal Romanian language requirement for obtaining a work permit. However, certain professions (healthcare, education, public sector) may require language proficiency.

Why Choose Pantilimon Avocat Firm?

The firm provides comprehensive work permit services:

• Full application management from the labor market test to the residence permit
• Document preparation, including apostille, translation, and notarization
• Immigration compliance auditing for employers
• Appeals against rejected applications
• Ongoing HR compliance — ReGES registration, contract management

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This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Romanian immigration law is subject to frequent changes. Always consult a qualified attorney for your specific situation.

Last updated: March 2026