Romania Residence Permit – First Time Application

Are you considering making Romania your new home for short or long term? With its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and thriving economy, it’s no wonder that many people are attracted to this Eastern European gem. But before you can settle down and start your new life in Romania, you’ll need to obtain a residence permit. Our law office has helped people from all over the world to obtain a Romania residence permit. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about obtaining a Romania residence permit, including the different types of permits, application processes for EU/EEA/Swiss and non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens, family reunification, and the rights and obligations of residence permit holders. So, let’s get started on your journey to a new life in Romania!

Key Takeaways

• Understanding Romanian residence involves gaining an understanding of the differences between temporary and permanent residence permit options, as well as their associated application processes.
• Non-EU/EEA foreign nationals need to obtain a long stay right to stay in Romania before applying for a residence permit before IGI, the Romanian authority that issues the permits.
• Residence permit holders in Romania have rights such as residing, working, accessing education and healthcare services with responsibilities to fulfill in order to maintain their status.

Understanding Romania Residence

Romania offers various types of residence permits that allow foreign citizens to legally work and live in the country. These permits come in two main categories: temporary and permanent.

Temporary residence permits serve various purposes, such as employment, study, or family reunification, while permanent residence permits are granted to those who have already resided in Romania for a specific period of time and fulfilled certain requirements.

Grasping the differences between these permits and their respective application processes can ease your transition to life in Romania.

Temporary Residence Permits

There are several types of temporary residence permits available in Romania, including:

• Residence permits
• Residence cards
• Registration certificates
• EU Blue Cards

These permits cater to different purposes, such as employment, study, or family reunification. The duration of these temporary permits varies, with extensions possible for up to 1 to 5 years, depending on the purpose and fulfillment of all the necessary paperwork requirements, such as paying the residence permit fee.

Non-EU/EEA foreign nationals can initiate their immigration process in Romania by obtaining a short-term residence permit. This is the most common method used. Some of the required documents for a business short-term residence visa include proof of national health insurance coverage. Preparing all essential documents in advance is advised, as specific paperwork may be needed based on the purpose of your stay. This could include an employment contract for work or a study acceptance letter for education. There are no Romanian language requirements for temporary residence permits.

Permanent Romanian Residence Permits

Permanent Romanian Residence Permits allow foreign citizens to reside in Romania for a period of 5 years. To be eligible for a permanent residence permit, you must have legally resided in Romania for a period of five years and demonstrate a basic knowledge of the Romanian language.

This type of permit is suitable for those who have established a long-term connection to the country and wish to enjoy a more stable and secure residency status.

Application Process for Non-EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens

For non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens, the process of obtaining a Romania residence permit starts with securing a long-stay visa. Once you have entered Romania with a valid long-stay visa, it is necessary to complete additional formalities. You must apply for a residence permit at the local General Inspectorate for Immigration Office.

The requirements for obtaining a residence permit vary according to your nationality, intended activities within Romania, and the type of permit you’re applying for. Next, we’ll delve into the more detailed aspects of the application process for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens, including the requirements for long-stay visas and the submission of the residence permit application.

Long-Stay Visa Requirements

For non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens, obtaining a long-stay visa is the first step towards acquiring a Romania residence permit. The requirements for a long-stay visa include:

• Having a valid passport
• Proof of purpose of stay (such as an employment contract or study acceptance letter)
• Proof of sufficient financial means
• Proof of accommodation
• Medical insurance
• Payment of the visa fee

Additionally, the Romanian authorities may require you to provide further documents or undergo a medical examination, depending on immigration laws and your specific circumstances.

Submitting the Residence Permit Application

After obtaining your long-stay visa, you’ll need to submit your residence permit application to the General Inspectorate for Immigration. You can submit your application electronically before presenting it in person at a local General Inspectorate for Immigration office. The required documents for the residence permit application include:

• A valid passport
• Evidence of sufficient financial means
• Evidence of accommodation
• A completed application form
• Proof of paid residence permit fee

Be sure to demonstrate that you have a minimum of €500 per month available to support yourself and provide proof of accommodation in Romania.

Once you have submitted your application and all necessary documents, the Romanian Immigration authorities will process your application within 30 days. Staying informed about your application’s status and being ready to provide requested additional documents or information is beneficial.

Application Process for EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens

EU/EEA/Swiss citizens have an advantage when it comes to obtaining a Romania residence permit. Their process is more straightforward compared to other countries’ nationals. Although you are not required to obtain a long-stay visa, you still need to register your residence with the relevant Romanian authorities and obtain a registration certificate.

After a continuous and legal stay in Romania for a period exceeding 5 years, you can apply for a permanent residence permit. Next, we’ll examine the application process for EU/EEA/Swiss citizens, which entails obtaining a registration certificate and demonstrating financial stability.

Registration Certificate

As an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen, you’ll need to register your residence in Romania with Romanian authorities to obtain a registration certificate. This process involves:

• Submitting an application form
• Providing your original passport or other travel documents (along with a photocopy)
• Providing evidence of accommodation in Romania
• Providing evidence of the purpose of your stay
• Providing evidence of health insurance coverage
• Providing evidence of financial means to support yourself during your stay in Romania

Application should ideally be submitted at least 30 days before your legal stay in Romania or visa expires.

Financial Stability Requirements

To obtain a residence permit as an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen, you’ll need to demonstrate proof of adequate financial resources to sustain yourself during your stay in Romania. The precise amount of financial stability required may vary depending on the type of permit and your specific circumstances, but you should be prepared to provide evidence of income, bank statements, and other financial documents as needed.

You may also need to provide proof of health insurance, a valid passport, a personal identification number, and other documents.

Extending Your Romania Residence Permit

If your temporary residence permit is nearing its expiration date, you might be wondering about the process of extending your stay in Romania. Thankfully, it is possible to extend your Romania residence permit by submitting an application to the local office of the General Inspectorate for Immigration at least three months prior to the expiration of your current permit.

Next, we’ll look into the extension process and the necessary documents for prolonging your Romania residence permit.

Extension Process

To extend your Romania residence permit, you’ll need to submit an application for an extension to the local office of the General Inspectorate for Immigration at least three months prior to the expiration of your current permit, the minimum duration being one month. The permit can be extended for a duration of 1-5 years, depending on your circumstances and the fulfillment of the necessary requirements.

Early planning and initiation of the extension process is advised to ensure a seamless and stress-free experience.

Required Documents

When applying for an extension of your Romania residence permit, you’ll need to submit several documents, including:

• A valid passport
• A copy of your current residence permit
• Evidence of financial stability
• Evidence of accommodation

Be prepared to provide any additional documents requested by competent authorities or the Romanian Immigration authority (IGI) depending on the purpose of the extension.

Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, you can submit your application in person or by post to the Romanian Immigration Office.

Obtaining a Romanian Long-Term Residence Permit

If you’ve been living in Romania with a temporary residence permit for a minimum of five years, you may be eligible for a Romanian long-term residence permit. This type of permit affords you a more secure and stable residency status in Romania, allowing you to enjoy many of the same rights and privileges as Romanian citizens.

Next, we’ll delve into the eligibility requirements and the steps involved in obtaining a Romanian long-term residence permit.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a Romanian long-term residence permit, you must have resided in Romania with a temporary residence permit for a minimum of five years and not have been absent from the country for more than six months during that time.

Family members of Romanian citizens, including a Romanian citizen spouse, and those with a regulated Romanian residence permit may also be eligible for a long-term residence permit under certain conditions.

Be sure to review the specific requirements and qualifications for your situation before applying.

Application Process

To apply for a Romanian long-term residence permit, you’ll need to request the entitlement to reside in Romania long-term from the General Inspectorate for Immigration in the relevant county. Once your request is approved, you’ll need to submit several documents, including a valid passport, evidence of financial stability, evidence of accommodation, and a completed application form.

The Romanian Immigration Office will process your application within 30 days, and upon approval, you’ll need to collect your residence permit in person.

Family Reunification and Resident Permits

For those with family members living in Romania, you may be considering the process of family reunification to bring your loved ones together in the country. Family member reunification in Romania involves obtaining immigration documents for family members of a foreign national who is staying in the country for an extended duration.

Next, we’ll share information on the procedures for family reunification and the necessary documents for acquiring residence permits for eligible family members.

Eligible Family Members

Family members eligible for reunification and residence permits in Romania include:

• Spouses
• Unmarried partners
• Children
• Parents

To establish family relationships, you’ll need to provide identification documents and legal proof, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and proof of cohabitation.

Collecting all required documents and adhering to the appropriate procedures is vital for a successful family reunification process.

Application Process and Required Documents

To apply for family reunification and residence permits in Romania, you’ll need to submit several documents, including:

• A valid passport
• A valid visa, if needed
• Evidence of financial solvency
• Proof of accommodation

The application should be submitted to the specialized structure of the General Inspectorate for Immigration.

The processing time for family reunification and residence permits in Romania typically ranges between 3-6 months, so be sure to plan ahead and allow ample time for the process.

Rights and Obligations of Residence Permit Holders

As a residence permit holder in Romania, you’ll enjoy various rights and privileges, as well as certain obligations. It is important to understand these rights and responsibilities to ensure a successful and enjoyable stay in Romania.

Next, we’ll outline the rights and obligations of temporary, permanent, and long-term residence permit holders in Romania.

Rights of Temporary Residence Permit Holders

Temporary residence permit holders in Romania enjoy several rights, including:

• The right to reside in the country for the duration of their permit
• The right to work
• The right to access education
• The right to access healthcare

These rights enable temporary residence permit holders to fully participate in Romanian society and enjoy a high quality of life during their stay.

Rights of Permanent and Long-Term Residence Permit Holders

Permanent and long-term residence permit holders in Romania enjoy the same rights as temporary residence permit holders, as well as the right to apply for Romanian citizenship after a specified period.

This additional right provides long-term residents with the opportunity to further solidify their connection to the Romanian territory and enjoy the full range of rights and privileges afforded to Romanian citizens.

Summary

Obtaining a Romania residence permit is a significant step toward starting your new life in this beautiful and vibrant country. With various types of residence permits available, understanding the requirements, application processes, and rights and obligations associated with each permit type is crucial for a smooth and successful transition. Whether you’re a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen, an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen, or seeking family reunification, this comprehensive guide has provided you with the information you need to navigate the Romania residence permit process with confidence. Here’s to your new adventure in Romania!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get a residence permit in Romania?

To obtain a residence permit in Romania, you must travel to the country with a long-stay visa and then apply for a residence permit at a local General Inspectorate for Immigration office. Alternatively, you can submit your documents online before submitting them in person. You will need to provide valid travel documents, proof of legal ownership or rental agreement, evidence of financial means of support, and proof of social health insurance.

How long can a US citizen live in Romania?

USA citizens can stay in Romania without a visa for up to 90 days in any 180-day period, although other types of long-term residence permits may be valid for one, five or ten years.

How long can foreigners stay in Romania?

Foreigners are allowed to stay in Romania for up to 90 days, with the exception of EU/EEA and Swiss nationals. They must obtain a long-term visa (marked D) and may need to apply for a temporary residence permit if their stay exceeds 90 days. Failure to comply with these conditions could result in heavy fines and the need for an exit permit from Immigration.

Where can I travel with a Romanian residence permit?

Your Romanian residence permit permits you access to Bulgaria, Croatia and Cyprus. However, you are not allowed access to countries in the Schengen area.

What is the difference between a temporary and permanent residence permit in Romania?

A temporary residence permit allows you to stay in Romania for a fixed period of time, while a permanent residence permit offers an extended stay of up to 5 years with the potential for obtaining Romanian citizenship.

Please contact our office today so we can get started.