In short
- Legal basis: Law no. 129/2019 on preventing and combating money laundering and terrorist financing, art. 56.
- Filed at incorporation and whenever the beneficial owner changes.
- The general annual filing was removed from 1 January 2022 (Law 315/2021).
- An annual filing remains for companies with shareholders linked to non-cooperative or high-risk jurisdictions — within 15 days of approving the annual financial statements.
When the declaration is filed
At incorporation
The declaration is filed together with the registration of the company. Alternatively, the beneficial owner data and the manner of control may be written into the articles of association.
Whenever the beneficial owner changes
A new declaration is filed when the identity of the beneficial owner or the way control is exercised changes — for example after a share transfer.
Annually, for higher-risk structures
Companies with shareholders linked to non-cooperative or high-risk jurisdictions file an additional declaration each year, within 15 days of approving the annual financial statements.
Documents ONRC asks for
- The beneficial owner declaration (original) — ONRC publishes an indicative model and a standard form
- A copy of the identity document of the applicant (legal representative of the company or their authorised representative)
- Where applicable, a special power of attorney in authentic form, a lawyer’s power of attorney or a delegation for the person carrying out the formalities
How it can be submitted
According to ONRC, the declaration may be a private document or an electronic document. It can be sent electronically with an electronic signature, by post or courier, or filed at the trade register counter, in person or through a representative. It may also be given before the trade register representative, or filed with a certain date given by a notary public or attested by a lawyer.
Frequently asked questions
Official sources
- Law no. 129/2019 — consolidated text (Legislative Portal, Ministry of Justice)
- ONRC — Registration of beneficial owners
- ONRC — Recording changes to the beneficial owner declaration
General legal information, not legal advice. Each situation requires individual review. Cabinet de Avocatură Pantilimon Rikhárd-Árpád, based in Târgu Mureș.