Romania is an attractive destination for foreign workers due to its growing economy, affordable living costs, and diverse job opportunities. If you plan to work in Romania, you will need a work visa and a residence permit. The application process has been simplified with the introduction of online procedures.
This guide covers everything you need to know about applying for a Romania work visa online, including eligibility, required documents, application steps, and processing times.
1. Types of Romania Work Visas
Romania offers different types of work visas depending on the nature of employment:
- D/AM Work Visa – For long-term employment (more than 90 days).
- D/AE Work Visa – For seasonal workers (valid up to 6 months).
- D/AC Work Visa – For highly skilled workers (Blue Card).
- D/AD Work Visa – For intra-company transfers.
Most foreign workers apply for the D/AM Work Visa, which allows long-term employment and requires a residence permit.
2. Eligibility for a Romania Work Visa
To qualify for a Romania work visa, you must:
- Have a valid job offer from a Romanian employer.
- Meet the qualifications required for the job.
- Obtain a work authorization (issued by the Romanian Immigration Office).
- Have a clean criminal record.
- Provide proof of financial means to support yourself.
- Have valid health insurance.
Your employer in Romania must first obtain approval from the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) before you can apply for the visa.
3. Required Documents for a Romania Work Visa
When applying online, you will need the following documents:
- Valid passport (with at least 6 months validity beyond the intended stay).
- Completed visa application form (available online).
- Work permit approval (issued by the Romanian employer).
- Employment contract or job offer letter.
- Proof of accommodation in Romania (rental agreement or employer-provided housing).
- Health insurance covering the entire stay.
- Criminal record certificate (from your home country).
- Proof of financial means (bank statements or employer guarantee).
- Passport-sized photos (recent, white background).
- Visa fee payment receipt.
All documents must be translated into Romanian and notarized if required.
4. Steps to Apply for a Romania Work Visa Online
Step 1: Secure a Job Offer in Romania
Your employer must apply for a work authorization from the Romanian Immigration Office. Once approved, you can proceed with the visa application.
Step 2: Complete the Online Visa Application
- Visit the official Romanian eVisa portal (https://evisa.mae.ro).
- Create an account and fill out the long-stay visa (D/AM) application form.
- Upload scanned copies of all required documents.
Step 3: Pay the Visa Fee
- The Romania work visa fee is approximately €120 (varies by nationality).
- Payment can be made online via credit/debit card or bank transfer.
Step 4: Schedule an Appointment at the Romanian Embassy
After submitting the online application, you must book an appointment at the nearest Romanian embassy or consulate for biometrics (fingerprints and photo).
Step 5: Attend the Visa Interview
Bring all original documents to the embassy for verification. The consular officer may ask questions about your employment and stay in Romania.
Step 6: Wait for Visa Processing
- Processing usually takes 15-30 days.
- Once approved, you will receive a sticker visa in your passport.
Step 7: Travel to Romania and Apply for a Residence Permit
After arriving in Romania, you must apply for a residence permit within 30 days at the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI).
5. Romania Work Visa Processing Time
- Standard processing: 15-30 days.
- Express processing (if available): 7-10 days (additional fees apply).
Delays may occur if documents are incomplete or additional checks are required.
6. Romania Work Visa Fees
- Work visa fee: €120 (may vary by nationality).
- Residence permit fee: €120-€300 (depending on duration).
- Health insurance: €50-€200 (depending on coverage).
7. Romania Work Visa Validity & Extension
- The initial work visa is valid for 90 days, but you must obtain a residence permit for long-term stay.
- The residence permit is usually issued for 1-2 years and can be renewed.
- To extend, apply at least 30 days before expiration with updated documents.
8. Romania Work Visa for Family Members
If you hold a valid work visa, your spouse and children can apply for a family reunification visa. They must provide:
- Marriage/birth certificates (translated and notarized).
- Proof of financial support.
- Health insurance.
9. Benefits of a Romania Work Visa
- Legal employment in Romania.
- Access to healthcare and education (for family members).
- Freedom to travel within the Schengen Zone (Romania is not yet part of Schengen but has visa-free agreements).
- Path to permanent residency after 5 years of continuous stay.
10. Common Reasons for Romania Work Visa Rejection
- Incomplete or incorrect documents.
- Lack of work authorization from the employer.
- Insufficient financial proof.
- Criminal record or security concerns.
- Previous visa violations in Romania or the EU.
If your visa is rejected, you can appeal the decision within 15 days.
11. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I apply for a Romania work visa without a job offer?
No, you must have a job offer and a work permit approved by your employer.
Q2: Is the Romania work visa process entirely online?
No, you must still visit the embassy for biometrics and document verification.
Q3: Can I switch from a tourist visa to a work visa in Romania?
No, you must apply for a work visa from your home country or country of residence.
Q4: How long can I stay in Romania with a work visa?
The initial visa is valid for 90 days, but the residence permit allows stays of 1-2 years (renewable).
Q5: Can I bring my family to Romania on a work visa?
Yes, through the family reunification process.
12. Conclusion
Applying for a Romania work visa online is a straightforward process if you have a valid job offer and the correct documents. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can secure your visa and start your employment journey in Romania.