Romania Work Permit: From Application to Approval

Working in a foreign country is an adventure.

Yet—

Navigating the maze of paperwork and understanding the nuances of a work permit can be daunting. Especially when it’s about a country as diverse and rich in culture as Romania.

Is it the allure of the Carpathian mountains or the charm of Bucharest that draws you? Or perhaps it’s a promising job opportunity?

To shed light on this, we delved deep into the intricacies of obtaining a Romania work permit.

Join us as we unravel the essentials you need to know.

What is a work permit in Romania?

A work permit in Romania is an official document that grants foreign nationals the right to work legally in the country. 

It is issued by the Romanian Ministry of Labor and Social Protection and is a prerequisite for non-EU/EEA citizens who wish to take up employment in Romania. 

The permit specifies the type of work, the employer, and the duration for which it is valid.

Who needs a work permit in Romania?

Any non-EU/EEA citizen who intends to work in Romania requires a work permit. EU/EEA citizens and Swiss nationals, however, do not need a work permit to work in Romania due to the freedom of movement and work within the European Union. 

It’s essential to note that having a work permit does not automatically grant the right to reside in Romania; a separate residence permit might be necessary.

Exemptions from Holding a Work Permit

Certain individuals are exempted from the requirement of holding a work permit in Romania. You might not need a work permit if:

• You have permanent residence in Romania or have been granted a specific form of protection.
• You possess a residence permit for academic studies.
• You’re a citizen of the EU/EEA, or a country that has labor market access agreements with Romania.
• You’re a family member of a Romanian citizen.
• You’re temporarily in Romania for scientific activities or other specific tasks under bilateral agreements or have a special residence permit.
• You are deployed to work in Romania.

Types of Work Permits in Romania

In Romania, the type of work you’re engaged in determines the kind of work permit you’ll need. Here are the various permits available:

• Permanent Workers Permit: For those looking to work in Romania on a long-term basis.
• Seasonal Workers Permit: Specifically for individuals whose work is seasonal in nature.
• Trainees Permit: For those undergoing training in Romania.
• Athletes Permit: Designed for professional athletes coming to Romania.
• Cross-border Workers Permit: For individuals who live in a neighboring country but work in Romania.
• Nominal Work Permit: This is a specific category and would require further details based on individual circumstances.

It’s essential to note that the duration of these permits can vary. For instance, highly skilled workers can extend their stay for up to two years.

How to get a work permit in Romania?

To obtain a work permit in Romania, the employer must first submit an application on behalf of the foreign employee to the Romanian Ministry of Labor and Social Protection. 

The application should be accompanied by various documents, including a job offer, proof of professional qualifications, and a medical certificate. 

Once approved, the work permit is issued to the foreign national, allowing them to apply for a long-stay visa for work purposes.

What are the requirements for a work permit in Romania?

The requirements for obtaining a work permit in Romania include:

• A valid job offer from a Romanian employer.
• Proof of professional qualifications and experience relevant to the job.
• A medical certificate confirming the individual is fit for work.
• A clean criminal record.
• Proof that the employer has not found a Romanian or EU/EEA citizen to fill the position after advertising it for a specific period.

Conditions for Employment in Romania

To be eligible for employment in Romania, there are specific conditions that every foreign national must meet:

1. Medical Fitness: Obtain a medical certificate confirming your ability to perform the intended job.
2. Clean Criminal Record: Ensure you have no criminal history that could hinder your professional activities in Romania.
3. Experience and Training: Align with the employer’s requirements concerning experience and training as per the legal provisions.
4. Annual Quota: Your employment must fall within the annual quota approved by the Romanian Government.
5. Unique Position: The job you’re applying for should not be fillable by EU/EEA citizens or Romanian nationals.

What is the process for getting a work permit in Romania?

The process for obtaining a work permit in Romania is as follows:

1. The employer advertises the job position locally and within the EU/EEA for a stipulated period.
2. If no suitable candidate is found, the employer prepares an application for the foreign national.
3. The application, along with the necessary documents, is submitted to the Romanian Ministry of Labor and Social Protection.
4. The Ministry reviews the application and, if approved, issues the work permit.
5. With the work permit, the foreign national can then apply for a long-stay visa for work purposes at a Romanian consulate or embassy in their home country.

Work Permit Application Details

In Romania, the onus of obtaining a work permit falls on the employer. They must:

• Apply on behalf of the foreign employee.
• Retain the original document to prove the lawful employment of the foreign citizen.
• Ensure the employee has a certified copy of the work permit or the residence permit granted for work purposes at all times.

Documents Required for Work Permit Application

Applying for a work permit in Romania requires a set of specific documents. Ensure you have the following ready:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Along with an annexed affidavit confirming no criminal record, medical fitness for employment, and basic Romanian language skills.
• Medical Certificate: This should state your fitness for the intended job.
• Criminal Record: Ensure it’s clear and doesn’t contain any entries that might hinder your employment.
• Educational Credentials: Provide translated and certified copies of your graduation records, scientific degrees, and certifications. These should be accompanied by a validation certificate from the Ministry of Education and Scientific Research.
• Identification: Your passport or ID, along with the long-stay visa (both original and copy).
• Photographs: Two photos, sized ¾.
• Additional Certificates: Updated medical and tax registration certificates, among others, might be required.

Use a checklist to gather all the necessary documents.

Internal Procedures After Submitting a Work Permit Application

Once you’ve submitted your work permit application, the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) takes the reins. Here’s what you can expect:

• A response within 30 days, extendable by another 15 days for further verification.
• After approval, the next step is to apply for a long-term visa at Romanian diplomatic missions and consular offices.
• It’s crucial to apply for a long-stay visa for employment purposes within 60 days of obtaining the work permit. Failing to do so will result in the permit’s expiration.

How do you renew your work permit once it expires?

Renewing a work permit in Romania is a straightforward process. Before the current permit expires, the foreign national and their employer must submit a renewal application to the Romanian Ministry of Labor and Social Protection. 

The renewal application should be accompanied by updated documents, such as a new job contract and a recent medical certificate. It’s crucial to start the renewal process well in advance to ensure continuous legal employment status in Romania.

Residence Rights and Extensions

Your journey doesn’t end with obtaining a work permit. If you wish to extend your stay in Romania:

• The right of residence granted with the long-term visa can be extended.
• The employment authorization may also be extended, provided the workplace is maintained.

FAQ

Do EU/EEA citizens need a work permit to work in Romania?

No, EU/EEA citizens and Swiss nationals do not require a work permit to work in Romania due to the freedom of movement within the European Union.

What happens if I don’t apply for a long-stay visa within 60 days of obtaining the work permit?

If you fail to apply for a long-stay visa for employment purposes within 60 days of receiving the work permit, the permit will expire.

Can I switch employers once I have a Romania work permit?

Typically, a Romania work permit is tied to a specific employer. If you wish to change employers, you might need to undergo the application process again.

How often do I need to renew my work permit?

The renewal frequency depends on the type of work permit and its validity period. It’s essential to check the expiration date and start the renewal process well in advance.

What happens if my work permit application is denied?

If your application is denied, the reasons for the denial will typically be provided. You may have the right to appeal or reapply after addressing the concerns.

Can I bring my family to Romania once I have a work permit?

While a work permit allows you to work in Romania, family reunification or bringing family members might require a separate process or visa type.

Do I need to have a job offer in hand to apply for a work permit?

Yes, typically a valid job offer from a Romanian employer is a prerequisite for a work permit application.

Summary

And that’s the rundown. 

Navigating the Romania work permit process might seem like a maze, but with the right guidance, it’s a journey worth taking. 

But— 

What’s your experience with obtaining a work permit in Romania? Smooth sailing or a few bumps on the road? 

Share your insights in the comments below.

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Alison Adams

Alison Adams, a Philly native and proud University of Pennsylvania alum, is your go-to Career Expert with a laid-back approach. She’s been in the job seeker’s shoes and knows how to navigate the wild world of work. Alison’s all about sharing practical tips and tricks with a personal touch, making her a favorite for those looking to level up their careers.

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