Romania has become an increasingly attractive destination for foreign workers, offering a range of opportunities in sectors like IT, engineering, healthcare, and agriculture.
For those looking to work in Romania, securing visa sponsorship is an essential step in the journey.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Romanian visa sponsorship, including types of visas, eligibility, the application process, and tips for finding a sponsored job.
Table of Contents
Understanding Romanian Visa Sponsorship
Visa sponsorship in Romania allows a foreign national to enter and work in the country with the support of a Romanian employer.
This process requires the employer to confirm that there are no Romanian or EU citizens suitable for the role, thereby justifying the need to sponsor a foreign worker.
Once approved, the visa sponsorship enables the worker to apply for a Romanian work visa and residence permit.
Types of Work Visas Available in Romania
Romania offers various types of work visas depending on the worker’s profession, duration of employment, and specific sector.
Here are the main types of work visas for Romania:
- Employment Visa (D/AM): Issued to foreign nationals with a job offer in Romania. This is the most common work visa for skilled and unskilled workers.
- Secondment Visa (D/DT): For employees who are sent to Romania by a foreign company on a temporary basis.
- Seasonal Work Visa (D/AS): Suitable for foreign workers involved in seasonal work, often in agriculture, tourism, or hospitality.
- Highly Skilled Worker Visa (Blue Card): Designed for highly qualified professionals, particularly in sectors like IT, engineering, and healthcare.This visa provides additional benefits, such as easier access to permanent residency.
Eligibility Requirements for Visa Sponsorship in Romania
To qualify for visa sponsorship, foreign workers must meet certain eligibility criteria.
Employers also have their own set of requirements to fulfill.
For Foreign Workers:
- Job Offer: You must have a confirmed job offer from a Romanian employer willing to sponsor your visa.
- Qualifications: Depending on the type of visa, you may need specific qualifications or experience relevant to the job.
- Language Skills: Although not always mandatory, basic Romanian or English language skills can improve your job prospects.
- Clean Criminal Record: A criminal background check may be required as part of the application.
For Romanian Employers:
- Labor Market Test: The employer must demonstrate that no suitable Romanian or EU workers are available for the position.
- Valid Business Registration: Only companies legally registered in Romania can sponsor foreign workers.
- Contract and Salary: Employers must provide a formal job contract with terms that meet Romanian labor laws, including minimum wage and benefits.
How to Find Sponsored Jobs in Romania
Finding a job that provides visa sponsorship is crucial for foreign workers. Here’s how to get started:
1. Use Job Portals:
Popular job portals such as eJobs.ro, BestJobs.eu, and LinkedIn frequently list jobs in Romania with visa sponsorship.
Specialized websites for international recruitment like JobsinNetwork and Glassdoor also feature Romanian job listings.
2. Focus on High-Demand Sectors:
Industries with high demand for foreign talent, such as IT, healthcare, and agriculture, are more likely to offer visa sponsorship. Research these sectors to identify roles suited to your skills.
3. Networking and LinkedIn:
Building a network on LinkedIn and joining Romania-specific groups can be beneficial for finding job leads and connecting with potential employers.
Reach out to HR professionals and recruiters in Romania to inquire about sponsorship opportunities.
4. Recruitment Agencies:
Working with recruitment agencies specializing in international hiring can help you find a job more quickly.
Agencies like Adecco Romania and Hays Romania often assist foreign applicants and may have job openings with sponsorship.
Application Process for a Romanian Work Visa with Sponsorship
Once you’ve secured a job offer, you can begin the visa application process.
Below is a step-by-step guide for obtaining a Romanian work visa with sponsorship:
Step 1: Obtain Your Job Offer and Employment Approval
Your employer in Romania will first apply for employment approval from the General Inspectorate for Immigration in Romania.
This approval process usually takes around 30 days.
Step 2: Gather Necessary Documents
- Job Contract: Signed job contract with details of your role and salary.
- Employment Approval: A copy of the employment approval issued by the Romanian Immigration office.
- Passport: Valid passport with at least six months’ validity.
- Proof of Qualifications: Degrees, certificates, or work experience documents.
- Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance valid for Romania.
- Proof of Accommodation: Evidence of where you will stay in Romania.
- Criminal Record: A criminal background check from your home country.
Step 3: Apply for the D Visa at the Romanian Consulate
Submit the D visa application and required documents to the Romanian consulate or embassy in your home country.
Pay the applicable visa fee and attend an interview if required.
Step 4: Enter Romania and Apply for a Residence Permit
Once your visa is approved, you can travel to Romania. Within 60 days of arrival, you must apply for a residence permit at the local Immigration Office to finalize your work authorization.
FAQs on Romanian Visa Sponsorship
Can I switch jobs in Romania after receiving a sponsored visa?
Yes, but you must notify the immigration authorities and ensure the new employer sponsors your visa. Changing employers may require a new employment approval.
How long does it take to process a work visa for Romania?
The total process typically takes 2–3 months, including employment approval and visa processing times. However, processing can vary depending on individual circumstances.
Are there any exemptions from the labor market test?
Some sectors and job categories are exempt from the labor market test if they are on Romania’s shortage occupation list or part of government-sponsored programs.
Can family members join me on a work visa in Romania?
Yes, family members can join you in Romania through a family reunification visa. You must demonstrate that you can financially support them.
Is Romanian language proficiency mandatory for a work visa?
It depends on the job role. While some positions require Romanian language skills, others, particularly in international companies, may only require English.
Conclusion
Romania offers great work opportunities for foreign nationals, and with visa sponsorship, it’s possible to secure a stable and rewarding job in sectors experiencing labor shortages.
By understanding the visa sponsorship process, preparing your application thoroughly, and focusing on in-demand sectors, you can increase your chances of success in finding employment in Romania.
Whether you’re a skilled professional or looking to enter seasonal or temporary work, Romania’s growing economy and workforce needs present exciting prospects for foreign workers.