Guide to Residency in Romania
Summary: Learn how to obtain a residency visa in Romania. Expats, Retirees and others who have navigated the process offer advice and guidance for newcomers in Romania.
Obtaining a residency visa in Romania is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Romania gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.
Obtaining Residency Status in Romania
- Prepare Necessary Documents
- Valid passport
- Completed application form (available at the Romanian Immigration Office)
- Passport-sized photos
- Proof of financial means (bank statements, employment contract, etc.)
- Proof of health insurance
- Criminal record certificate from your home country
- Medical certificate (obtained in Romania)
- Determine the Type of Residence Permit Needed
- For work: Work Permit
- For study: Student Visa
- For family reunification: Family Reunification Visa
- For business: Business Permit
- Apply for a Long-Stay Visa
- Schedule an appointment with the Romanian diplomatic mission in your home country
- Submit the required documents
- Pay the visa fee
- Register with the Immigration Office upon Arrival
- Visit the Romanian Immigration Office (IGI) within 90 days of arrival
- Submit the required documents for the residence permit
- Apply for a Tax Number
- Visit the National Agency for Fiscal Administration (ANAF) office
- Submit a completed application form (Form 010)
- Present your passport and residence permit
- ANAF website for more information: ANAF Contact
- Register with the Local Police
- Visit the local police station within 8 days of receiving your residence permit
- Present your passport and residence permit
- Complete the registration form
- Renew Residence Permit as Needed
- Visit the Immigration Office (IGI) before the permit expires
- Submit the required documents for renewal
- Pay the renewal fee
Note: The process may vary slightly depending on your specific situation. Always check the official Romanian Immigration Office website for the most up-to-date information.
What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Romania?
"In order to visit Romania, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, and any other documents required by the Romanian Embassy or Consulate. In order to obtain residency in Romania, foreign nationals must submit an application to the Romanian Immigration Office. The application must include a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, proof of financial means, proof of accommodation, and any other documents required by the Immigration Office. Once the application is approved, the foreign national will be issued a residence permit, which must be renewed every year," commented one member living in Romania.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Romania Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Romania
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Romania
- Best Places to Live in Romania
- Real Estate in Romania
- Guide to Real Estate in Romania
- Pros & Cons of Living in Romania
- Cost of Living in Romania
- Moving to Romania with a Pet
- Understanding Mental Health in Romania
- Do I need Health Insurance When Moving to Romania?
- Best Places to Ski in Romania
- 2026 Guide to Living in Romania
- Pros and Cons of Living in Romania 2026
- 2026 Guide to Moving to Romania


