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Romania Work Permit vs Residence Permit: How to Switch (2026 Guide)
If you are a foreign worker from outside the EU/EEA, you need both a work permit and a residence permit to legally work and live in Romania. The work permit (aviz de muncă) is obtained by your employer before you arrive, while the residence permit (carte de ședere) is applied for after you enter Romania on a long-stay visa. This guide explains the difference, step-by-step process, costs, and how to switch from a work permit to a residence permit.
Who can apply / requirements
Eligibility for a Romania work permit
- You must have a valid job offer from a Romanian employer.
- The employer must prove that the position could not be filled by a Romanian or EU/EEA citizen (labour market test).
- You must hold a valid passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay).
- No criminal record in your home country or in Romania.
- You must meet specific qualifications or experience required for the job (e.g., diploma, certificates).
- Health insurance is mandatory.
Eligibility for a Romania residence permit (for employees)
- You must have a valid work permit (aviz de muncă).
- You must have entered Romania with a long-stay visa for employment (D/AM).
- You must have a valid employment contract with a Romanian employer.
- You must have proof of accommodation in Romania.
- You must have health insurance.
- You must apply within 90 days of entering Romania.
Step-by-step process
- Employer obtains the work permit (aviz de muncă): Your Romanian employer submits the application to the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI). The permit is issued for a specific job and employer. Processing takes 30–60 days. Last verified: July 2026.
- Apply for the long-stay visa (D/AM): After the work permit is approved, you apply at the Romanian embassy or consulate in your home country. Required documents: valid passport, work permit copy, employment contract, proof of accommodation, health insurance, criminal record certificate. Visa processing: 2–4 weeks.
- Enter Romania: You must enter Romania within the visa validity (usually 90 days).
- Apply for the residence permit (carte de ședere): Within 90 days of entry, you must submit an application to the IGI territorial office. Documents: passport, visa, work permit, employment contract, proof of accommodation, health insurance, proof of payment of application fee. The residence permit is usually valid for 1 year and renewable.
- Collect residence permit card: After approval (2–4 weeks), you receive a plastic card valid for the duration of your work permit.
Salary, cost & savings
Below are INDICATIVE ESTIMATES for a skilled worker (e.g., IT technician) in Romania. Actual figures vary by occupation and city.
| Item | Amount (RON) | Amount (EUR) |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly gross salary | 6,000 – 10,000 | 1,200 – 2,000 |
| Estimated net salary (after tax) | 4,200 – 7,000 | 850 – 1,400 |
| Monthly living costs (single person, rent inc.) | 2,500 – 3,500 | 500 – 700 |
| Realistic monthly savings | 1,000 – 3,000 | 200 – 600 |
Fees & timeline
| Step | Fee (EUR) | Processing time |
|---|---|---|
| Work permit application (employer) | Free (employer pays no fee) | 30–60 days |
| Long-stay visa (D/AM) | ~120 | 2–4 weeks |
| Residence permit application | ~100 | 2–4 weeks |
| Total estimated cost (excluding travel) | ~220 | 3–5 months |
Processing time & what to expect
The entire process from employer application to receiving the residence permit card takes approximately 3–5 months. The work permit (aviz de muncă) is the longest step (30–60 days). The visa and residence permit each take 2–4 weeks. You must apply for the residence permit before your visa expires (within 90 days of entry). After submitting the residence permit application, you may receive a certificate that allows you to stay legally while waiting for the card.
Scams & red flags
- Never pay for a job offer. Legitimate employers do not charge fees for work permits.
- Verify the employer through the Romanian Trade Register (ONRC) or ask for proof of their registration.
- Beware of agencies promising guaranteed work permits – only the employer can apply.
- Check official sources: The General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) website lists authorised employers.
- Do not pay for visa appointments – visa fees are paid directly to the embassy/consulate.
Sources & how to verify
- General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI): igi.mai.gov.ro – official information on work and residence permits.
- Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs: www.mae.ro – visa requirements and embassy list.
- Romanian Embassy in your country: Check their website for specific visa application procedures.
- Always confirm the latest requirements with the official sources, as rules can change. Last verified: July 2026.
Key takeaways
- The work permit (aviz de muncă) is obtained by the employer before you arrive; the residence permit (carte de ședere) is applied for after entry.
- You must enter Romania with a long-stay visa (D/AM) and apply for the residence permit within 90 days.
- Processing takes 3–5 months total; the work permit step is the longest (30–60 days).
- Never pay for a job offer or work permit – only official visa/application fees are required.
- Always verify requirements with the official IGI website or Romanian embassy.
Frequently asked questions
Can I switch from a work permit to a residence permit without leaving Romania?
Yes, the switch happens inside Romania. After entering with a D/AM visa, you apply for the residence permit at the IGI territorial office. You do not need to leave the country.
How long is the residence permit valid?
The residence permit is typically valid for one year and can be renewed as long as your employment continues and the work permit is extended.
Can my family join me in Romania?
Yes, once you have a valid residence permit, your spouse and minor children can apply for family reunification. They must apply for a residence permit for family members.
What happens if my employment ends?
If your employment ends, your work permit and residence permit may be revoked. You have 90 days to find a new employer and apply for a new work permit, or you must leave Romania.
Do I need to know Romanian to get a work permit?
Not necessarily, but for many jobs, basic Romanian is helpful. Some employers may require it. For highly skilled positions (e.g., IT), English may suffice.
