Romania

TYPES OF WORK VISAS IN ROMANIA

Romania, being a member state of the European Union (EU), adheres to laws governing work visas and permits that align with those of fellow EU nations. Individuals from other EU member states, as well as citizens of Switzerland and countries within the European Economic Area (EEA) such as Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein, are not required to obtain a permit to work in Romania. For individuals who do not belong to these specified countries, securing a work permit is essential. Romania offers various types of permits to foreign citizens, covering a range of employment scenarios, including permits for:

1. Temporary Stay and Work Visa:
This visa is suitable for individuals planning to work in Romania for a limited period. The employer in Romania usually initiates the application process on behalf of the employee.

2. Seasonal Workers:
Intended for individuals employed in seasonal activities, such as agriculture or tourism, for a short duration.

3. Trainees:
For individuals undergoing professional training or internship programs in Romania.

4. Athletes:
Designed for foreign athletes participating in sports events or training programs in Romania.

5. Permanent Employees:
For individuals seeking long-term employment in Romania. The employer typically needs to provide evidence that no suitable Romanian or EU candidate is available for the position.

6. Cross-Border Workers:
Applicable to individuals residing in a neighbouring country and working in Romania while maintaining their residence in the border area.

7. Nominal Work:
This type of permit may be granted in specific cases where the employee’s position is of particular interest to Romania, and the work is considered important for the country’s economy.

REQUIREMENTS TO OBTAIN ROMANIA WORK VISAS

In Romania, foreign citizens cannot apply for a work permit on their own behalf. The employer must apply for them. A permit will be issued only if there are no Romanian citizens or citizens in other EU or EEA member states who are eligible to fill the position. This is one condition of eligibility for a permit. Other conditions include that the prospective employee must:
a) Employer’s Application: Foreign citizens cannot apply for a work permit on their own. The employer in Romania must apply for the work permit on behalf of the prospective employee.
b) Labor Market Test: A work permit will only be issued if there are no Romanian citizens, as well as citizens from other EU or EEA member states, who are eligible and available to fill the position. This may involve a labor market test to ensure that the job cannot be filled locally.
c) Meeting Employer’s Requirements: The prospective employee must meet all the requirements set by the employer for the position, as per legal provisions.
d) Criminal Record Check: The applicant must have no criminal record that would prevent them from working in Romania. This requirement is common in many countries to ensure the safety and security of the host country.
e) Medical Certificate: The applicant must provide a medical certificate attesting to their capability to carry out the tasks required for the job. This ensures that the individual is fit for employment and does not pose a health risk.
f) Quota Limitations: The prospective employee must fall within the yearly quota for foreign citizens who may be granted a work permit. Countries often set limits on the number of work permits issued to manage immigration flows.

The employee will also need to apply for a long-term visa. Along with the application, the employee should be prepared to provide several documents, including:
a) The work permit obtained by the employer
b) Proof of accommodation in Romania
c) A valid passport
d) Two recent identifying photos
e) Proof of medical insurance for the duration of the visit
f) Police clearance or a background check from the employee’s country of residence
g) Evidence of sufficient financial means to support the visit
h) A flight ticket or proof of other accommodations for travel

ROMANIAN APPLICATION PROCESS

Foreign citizens will need a work permit as well as a long-term visa to live and work in Romania legally. Here are the necessary steps to obtain these documents:
a) Employer Application for Work Permit: The employer initiates the process by applying for a work permit on behalf of the prospective employee. Relevant documents, such as the employment contract, job description, and other supporting materials, are submitted to the Inspectorate General for Immigration (IGI). The employer is required to pay the applicable fees associated with the work permit application.
b) Review by Inspectorate General for Immigration (IGI): The IGI evaluates the application and documents submitted by the employer. The IGI has a maximum of 30 days to respond to the application, either by providing a decision or requesting additional information for verification purposes.
c) Verification Process (if needed): If additional information is requested, the employer must provide the necessary documents promptly. The verification process may extend the overall application period for up to 15 additional days.
d) Work Permit Issuance: Once the application is approved by the IGI, a work permit is issued for the prospective employee. The work permit allows the individual to legally work in Romania.
e) Long-Term Visa Application: With the work permit in hand, the employee must apply for a long-term visa. This application is submitted through the diplomatic missions and consular offices of Romania in the individual’s home country or country of residence.
f) Application Deadline for Long-Term Visa: The employee has a window of 60 days from the issuance of the work permit to apply for the long-term visa.