How Long Does It Take to Hire a Foreign Worker in Romania?
Romania is experiencing a growing demand for foreign workers across various industries, including construction, manufacturing, hospitality, and transportation. As local labor shortages persist, hiring talent from overseas has become an essential solution for Romanian businesses. However, the process involves multiple legal and administrative steps, each requiring careful attention to ensure compliance.
Here’s an updated guide on how long it takes to hire a foreign worker in Romania, based on recent regulations.
The Process of Hiring Foreign Workers in Romania
1. Identifying the Need and Sourcing Candidates (1–3 weeks)
Employers must determine the roles that need to be filled and source candidates accordingly. Romania’s labor market relies heavily on countries like Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the Philippines for skilled and semi-skilled labor.
GroupL Global simplifies this stage by providing Romanian companies access to a vast database of pre-vetted candidates ready to relocate.
2. Obtaining a Work Permit (3–5 weeks)
The employer must apply for a work permit (permis de muncă) from the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI). Requirements include:
- Proof of job posting for at least 30 days in Romania to demonstrate the lack of available local candidates.
- Submission of the candidate’s passport, CV, and other relevant documents.
- Payment of government fees.
3. Visa Application and Processing (4–6 weeks)
Once the work permit is approved, the foreign worker must apply for a long-stay visa at the Romanian consulate in their home country. This stage involves submitting documents such as:
- The work permit.
- Employment contract.
- Proof of accommodation in Romania.
4. Arrival and Residence Permit (1–2 weeks)
Upon arrival, the worker must register with the IGI to obtain a residence permit. Employers are responsible for assisting the worker with this process, which includes submitting proof of employment and completing health and insurance formalities.
Key Updates in Romanian Hiring Laws (2025)
Romania has streamlined its processes to attract more foreign workers while maintaining strict compliance requirements:
- Quota System: Romania sets annual quotas for work permits. For 2025, quotas are expected to increase to accommodate the high demand for foreign labor.
- Simplified Health Screening: Health checks remain mandatory but have been expedited to reduce delays.
- Digital Applications: The Romanian government has improved online platforms to facilitate faster submission of documents for work permits and visas.
Benefits of Hiring Foreign Workers in Romania
- Address Labor Shortages: Industries like construction and hospitality benefit significantly from hiring overseas workers, given the lack of available local talent.
- Cost Efficiency: Hiring skilled workers from countries with lower wage expectations helps reduce operational costs without compromising quality.
- Diverse Skill Sets: Overseas workers bring specialized skills and experience that may not be readily available locally.
How GroupL Global Can Help
At GroupL Global, we specialize in connecting Romanian employers with skilled foreign workers. Our services include:
- Access to a Database of Over 1 Million Pre-Vetted Candidates: We provide immediate access to qualified talent from countries like Nepal, the Philippines, India, and Bangladesh.
- End-to-End Recruitment Support: From sourcing candidates to handling work permits and visas, we take care of every step.
- Expert Guidance on Compliance: Our team ensures you meet Romania’s legal requirements, minimizing delays and maximizing efficiency.
By partnering with GroupL Global, you can save time, reduce recruitment costs, and ensure a seamless onboarding process for your new hires.