Complete guide to employment, work permits, labor laws, and starting a business in Romania as a foreigner. Updated for 2025 with PFA, SRL setup, and legal requirements.
Romania's work permit requirements depend on your nationality and residence status. Understanding these rules is crucial before starting employment.
NO PERMIT NEEDED:
• EU/EEA/Swiss citizens
• UK citizens (transition period until Dec 2025)
• Family members of EU citizens
• Long-term residents (5+ years)
• Blue Card holders
Non-EU citizens need work permits unless exempt. The employer must obtain the permit before you start working.
Romanian employer applies to AMOFM with job posting and justification for hiring foreign worker.
Job posted for 30 days to prove no suitable EU candidates available.
Submit contract, qualifications, criminal record, medical certificate.
Processing: 30-60 days. Valid for max 1 year, renewable.
Romania offers diverse opportunities across IT, manufacturing, services, and emerging sectors.
| Sector | Average Salary (RON) | Growth | Expat Opportunities |
|---|---|---|---|
| IT & Software | 8,000-15,000 | High | Excellent |
| Finance & Banking | 6,000-12,000 | Moderate | Good |
| Manufacturing | 4,000-7,000 | Stable | Good |
| Healthcare | 5,000-10,000 | Growing | Limited |
| Education | 3,500-6,000 | Stable | Good |
Minimum Wage: 3,700 RON gross (2,363 RON net)
Average Salary: 6,500 RON gross (4,200 RON net)
High Earners: 12,000+ RON gross (7,500+ RON net)
Romania has comprehensive labor laws protecting employee rights.
| Employment Duration | Notice Period | Severance Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Under 1 year | 20 working days | None |
| 1-5 years | 45 working days | 1 month salary |
| 5-10 years | 45 working days | 2 months salary |
| Over 10 years | 60 working days | 3-6 months salary |
| Platform | Focus | English Jobs | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| eJobs.ro | General | Many | All sectors |
| Professional | Excellent | Networking | |
| Hipo.ro | IT/Tech | Excellent | Tech positions |
| BestJobs.eu | General | Good | Professional roles |
• Use European CV format (Europass)
• Include professional photo
• List education before experience
• Include language skills with levels
• Keep to 2 pages maximum
Romania offers attractive conditions for entrepreneurs with low taxes and EU market access.
| Aspect | PFA | SRL |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Capital | None | 200 RON |
| Liability | Unlimited | Limited |
| Setup Time | 1-3 days | 5-10 days |
| Setup Cost | 100-300 RON | 500-1,500 RON |
| Tax Rate | 10% + contributions | 16% on profit |
| Accounting | Simple records | Full accounting |
PFA (Persoană Fizică Autorizată) is perfect for freelancers and consultants.
Select up to 10 activity codes. Main activity determines tax obligations.
Submit application at Trade Registry Office. Fee: 100 RON.
Register with ANAF within 30 days. Choose tax regime.
Required for business transactions and VAT registration.
Normal: 10% income tax + 25% social contributions
Micro-enterprise: 1% or 3% turnover tax
Norms: Fixed deduction percentages
SRL (Societate cu Răspundere Limitată) offers liability protection and growth potential.
Check availability and reserve name at ONRC. Valid for 6 months.
Articles of incorporation, shareholder agreements, capital proof.
Submit to ONRC with all documents. Processing: 5-10 days.
Open bank account, register with ANAF, hire accountant.
• Minimum 200 RON share capital
• At least one administrator
• Registered office address
• Professional accounting mandatory
Q: Do I need a work permit as an EU citizen?
A: No, EU/EEA/Swiss citizens can work freely in Romania without permits.
Q: How long does work permit processing take?
A: Typically 30-60 days from complete application submission.
Q: What's the minimum wage in Romania?
A: 3,700 RON gross per month in 2025 (approximately 2,363 RON net).
Q: Can I work remotely for foreign companies?
A: Yes, but you may need to register as PFA and handle tax obligations.
Q: PFA or SRL for freelancing?
A: PFA is simpler and cheaper for most freelancers. Choose SRL for higher income or liability protection.
Q: Can foreigners start businesses in Romania?
A: Yes, with no restrictions for EU citizens. Non-EU citizens may need residence permits.
Continue Your Journey:
• Romanian Visas & Residency Permits
• Your First Month in Romania Checklist
• Romanian Taxes for Expats