How to Get a Romania Work Permit from Saudi Arabia
To get a Romania work permit from Saudi Arabia, you first need a job offer from a Romanian employer. The employer applies for the work permit at the Romanian Immigration Inspectorate (IGI). Once approved, you apply for a long-stay national visa (D visa) at the Romanian Embassy in Riyadh. Processing takes roughly 2-4 months. You must have a valid passport, a clean criminal record, and meet specific qualifications.
Who Can Apply / Requirements
Eligibility
- Nationality: Any non-EU national legally residing in Saudi Arabia (including Saudi citizens, expats with iqama, etc.)
- Job offer: A confirmed job offer from a Romanian employer registered with IGI.
- No threat to public order: Clean criminal record.
- Health: Must not have diseases that endanger public health.
- Qualifications: Relevant education or experience for the job; some occupations (e.g., healthcare, engineering) require recognition of diplomas.
Documents Required
- Valid passport (with at least 3 months validity beyond visa expiry)
- Two recent passport-size photos
- Job contract signed by employer
- Work permit approval (issued by IGI, provided by employer)
- Proof of accommodation in Romania (employer provides)
- Travel health insurance (minimum €30,000 coverage)
- Criminal record certificate from Saudi Arabia (attested)
- Medical certificate (if required by embassy)
- Proof of legal residence in Saudi Arabia (iqama or Saudi ID)
- Visa application form (completed online)
- Visa fee payment receipt
Step-by-Step Process
- Find a Romanian employer – Use official job portals or licensed recruitment agencies. Never pay upfront for a job offer.
- Employer applies for work permit – The employer submits the application to IGI, including proof of your qualifications and the job contract. Processing: 30–60 days.
- Receive work permit approval – The employer sends you the approval document (digital copy).
- Apply for national visa (D visa) – Book an appointment at the Romanian Embassy in Riyadh. Submit the required documents and pay the visa fee (approx. €120).
- Wait for visa decision – Processing time: 2–4 weeks. You may be called for an interview.
- Travel to Romania – Once visa is issued, you can travel. Enter Romania within 90 days.
- Register with local authorities – Within 15 days of arrival, you must register with the Romanian Immigration Office to get the residence permit.
Salary, Cost & Savings
INDICATIVE ESTIMATES for a skilled worker (e.g., IT professional, engineer, construction supervisor) in Romania, 2026. Actual figures vary by city and occupation.
| Item | Amount (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Monthly gross salary | 1,500 – 2,500 |
| Estimated net salary | 1,100 – 1,800 |
| Rent (1-bedroom city center) | 400 – 600 |
| Utilities + internet | 100 – 150 |
| Food & transport | 200 – 300 |
| Total monthly living cost | 700 – 1,050 |
| Realistic monthly savings | 300 – 750 |
Fees and timeline:
| Fee type | Amount (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Work permit application (employer) | Free / nominal |
| National visa (D visa) fee | 120 |
| Residence permit registration | ~10 |
| Health insurance (annual) | 100 – 200 |
| Total out-of-pocket (approx.) | 250 – 350 |
Processing Time & What to Expect
- Work permit (employer side): 30–60 days
- Visa application at embassy: 2–4 weeks
- Total from job offer to visa: 2–4 months
Delays can happen if documents are incomplete or during peak seasons. The Romanian Embassy in Riyadh may request an interview. Once in Romania, you must apply for a residence permit within 15 days; this can take another 30 days.
Scams & Red Flags
- Never pay for a job offer. Legitimate employers do not ask for money.
- Verify the employer – Check if the company is registered with the Romanian Trade Register (ONRC).
- Beware of fake embassy websites – Only use the official embassy site: https://riyadh.mae.ro/
- No visa-on-arrival for work – You must have a visa before traveling.
- If it sounds too good (high salary, no experience needed), it's likely a scam.
Sources & How to Verify
- Romanian Immigration Inspectorate (IGI): https://igi.mai.gov.ro/
- Romanian Embassy in Riyadh: https://riyadh.mae.ro/
- Ministry of Foreign Affairs (visa info): https://www.mae.ro/en
- Check official work permit requirements: https://igi.mai.gov.ro/foreigners/
Last verified: June 2026. Rules may change; always confirm with the embassy or official sources.
Key takeaways
- Romania work permit requires a job offer; employer applies first.
- Processing takes 2-4 months from Saudi Arabia.
- Visa fee is ~€120; total out-of-pocket ~€250-350.
- Monthly savings for a skilled worker: €300-750.
- Avoid scams: never pay for a job offer.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply for a Romania work permit without a job offer?
No. A job offer from a Romanian employer is mandatory. The employer must apply for the work permit on your behalf.
How long does the Romania work visa take from Saudi Arabia?
Total processing is 2–4 months: 30–60 days for the work permit, then 2–4 weeks for the visa at the embassy.
What is the minimum salary for a Romania work permit?
Romania does not have a fixed minimum salary for work permits, but the salary must be at least the national gross minimum wage (approximately €515/month in 2026). Most skilled jobs pay €1,500–2,500.
Can my family join me in Romania?
Yes, after you obtain the residence permit, your spouse and minor children can apply for family reunification. They need proof of accommodation and sufficient income.
