Navigating Romania's Visa and Immigration Landscape for Global Business Expansion

Romania presents a compelling destination for international companies seeking European market access, with its diverse culture and thriving business environment. As an HR professional specializing in global mobility, I've observed how Romania's strategic position attracts Chinese enterprises expanding overseas. Understanding the country's evolving visa policies is crucial for compliant workforce deployment.

Romania achieved a significant milestone on March 31, 2024, becoming a full Schengen Area member. This development means that Schengen visas issued by Romanian authorities now permit travel throughout the entire Schengen zone, with the standard 90-day limit within any 180-day period. However, companies should note that short-stay visas issued before this date remain valid only for Romania until expiration.

Romania's 2024 Foreign Worker Quota and Employment Framework

The Romanian government has maintained its foreign worker quota at 100,000 for 2024, reflecting consistent demand for international talent. Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals require both a work permit and a work visa for legal employment, with distinct application processes for each document.

Understanding Romania's Work Permit Categories

The Romanian Immigration Inspectorate General (IGI) offers several work permit types tailored to different employment scenarios:

Permanent Worker Permits: Valid for one year, renewable based on contract duration
Posted Worker Permits: For employees temporarily assigned from third-country companies
Highly Skilled Worker Permits: Requiring demonstrated expertise and salaries exceeding twice the average wage, valid for two years
ICT Permits: For intra-company transfers, valid up to three years for professionals
Specialized Permits: Covering seasonal workers, athletes, trainees, and employer changes

Practical Case: Posted Worker Permit Documentation

For companies utilizing posted workers, the documentation requirements include:

Evidence of business need and legal authorization
Trade registry certificates and bankruptcy status documents
Translated employment contracts and corporate relationship proofs
Employee health declarations and language proficiency evidence
Educational qualifications and criminal record certificates

Work Permit Fee Structure

Employers should budget for permit fees ranging from €25 equivalent for seasonal workers to €100 for most professional categories. These fees are generally refunded if applications are rejected.

Romania's Visa Categories for Employment Purposes

Once work permits are secured, employees can apply for appropriate visas:

Short-Stay (C) Visas: Maximum 90-day stays without work authorization
Long-Stay (D) Visas: Allow residence permit applications for employment
Digital Nomad Visas: One-year renewable visas for remote workers

Streamlining the Application Process

Successful visa applications typically follow this sequence:

Secure employment offer and work permit approval
Complete relevant visa application forms
Compile supporting documentation
Submit through Romanian diplomatic missions or the E-VISA portal

Visa Processing Timelines and Costs

Long-stay employment visas generally process within 20-45 days, with fees ranging from €45 for child applicants to €120 for adult long-stay visas. Companies should factor these timelines into their relocation schedules.

Strategic Considerations for Global HR Teams

Romania's integration into the Schengen Area simplifies business travel while maintaining specific employment regulations. Companies like SailGlobal have successfully navigated these requirements by:

Developing comprehensive documentation checklists
Establishing relationships with Romanian immigration authorities
Creating contingency plans for processing delays
Implementing compliance tracking systems for stay durations

Professional guidance from experienced providers like SailGlobal can significantly reduce administrative burdens, allowing companies to focus on core business objectives while ensuring full compliance with Romanian immigration laws.

Romania Work Visa and Permit Guide 2024: Complete Immigration Process