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Overview and Appeal of Romania
Romania is quietly becoming one of Europe’s most underrated destinations — not just for travelers, but for entrepreneurs and global citizens seeking a fresh start. Its landscapes are astonishingly diverse: sunny Black Sea beaches, the wild Danube Delta, deep Carpathian forests, mountain roads like the Transfăgărășan and Transalpina, and a patchwork of colorful towns and traditional villages. Together, they create a place that invites both exploration and reflection — the perfect mix of natural beauty, culture, and connection.
Business Environment
The country is no longer just a stop on the tourist map — it’s a place where ideas take root. Sectors like tourism, real estate, renewable energy, and agriculture are expanding rapidly. A skilled, adaptive workforce and a growing entrepreneurial ecosystem make Romania fertile ground for new ventures. For the right kind of investor, the opportunities here can be both profitable and meaningful.
Residency and Immigration Framework
For EU Citizens
EU passport holders can enter Romania with a valid ID or passport and stay freely for up to three months. For longer stays, they simply register with the Immigration Office to obtain a residence certificate — a process that is generally straightforward.
For Non-EU Citizens
Citizens from outside the EU have a more formal process but clear pathways to stay. Depending on the purpose (work, investment, study, family reunification), a long-stay visa is usually required first. After arrival, applicants submit documentation for a residence permit, valid for at least one year and renewable.
Key Visa and Permit Categories
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Economic and Professional Activities – For those working in regulated industries or professions (medicine, law, architecture, etc.).
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Investment and Business – Entrepreneurs can qualify by presenting a solid business plan, committing capital (€100k+ depending on entity type), and creating local jobs.
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Employment or Secondment – Work permits allow foreign talent to join Romanian companies or be seconded temporarily from abroad.
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Studies and Research – Covers students, interns, and researchers with formal agreements.
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Family Reunification – Allows spouses, children, and dependents to join legal residents.
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Religious or Volunteer Activities – For those engaging in community or faith-based projects.
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Digital Nomads – A new and popular route: remote workers can live in Romania if they prove sufficient income (3× the national gross average salary) for at least six months before applying.
Each category requires supporting evidence: a valid travel document, financial proof, health insurance, and a clean criminal record. Application decisions typically come within 60 days.
Why It Matters
Mobility today is more than logistics — it’s a strategy. Choosing Romania can mean access to a lower cost of living, a European lifestyle, and a market still open to innovators. It’s a gateway to EU opportunities without the overcrowding of Western hubs.
Connect with the Community
If you’re considering the leap, don’t go it alone.
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ExpatsInRomania.org offers practical guides on relocation, housing, healthcare, and legal steps.
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The Expats in Romania Facebook group is an active community where thousands of newcomers share tips, answer questions, and post meet-ups.
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