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Immigration & residence in Romania
Romania's General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) issues residence permits. Non-EU citizens receive a permis de ședere valid 1 year initially.
Immigration offices in Romania
IGI — Inspectoratul General pentru Imigrări: Residence permits, asylum.
Residence steps to prioritise
Get CNP + residence card: Apply at your local IGI within 30 days of arrival (non-EU). Book at IGI — Bring passport, visa, rental contract, criminal record from home country. Permis de ședere — Fee ~120 RON; card in 30 days. CNP printed on it. CASS health insurance: Automatic for employees; self-pay for others (~10 % of minimum wage). Register with a GP — Choose a medic de familie in your area. Free consultations with insurance. Work permit / EU registration: EU/EEA free. Non-EU need employer-sponsored work permit + long-stay visa. Employer files aviz — At IGI. Once approved you apply for a work D-visa at the consulate. EU registration — EU/EEA get a certificate of registration at IGI after 3 months.
Documents to keep ready
Prepare your passport, visa or residence card, birth and marriage certificates, address proof, health-insurance proof, job or study documents, and passport photos. In Romania, officials may ask for originals, copies and certified translations.
If a decision is delayed or refused
Ask IGI — Inspectoratul General pentru Imigrări for written confirmation that your application is pending. If you receive a refusal, read the appeal deadline immediately and contact a legal-aid organisation or migrant support office in Romania.
Documents checklist
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- Proof of purpose (job/study/family)
- Health insurance
- Proof of accommodation
- Proof of sufficient funds
Frequently asked questions
Which office should I contact first in Romania?
Start with IGI — Inspectoratul General pentru Imigrări. For broader newcomer help, also check IGI — Inspectoratul General pentru Imigrări, Direcția de Evidența Persoanelor, ANAF — Tax Administration.
What language will offices use in Romania?
The main administrative language is Romanian. Larger offices often offer English or interpreters, but bring translated documents when possible.
How long does a residence permit take in Romania?
Processing times vary from a few weeks to several months depending on the permit type and completeness of your documents.
Can I work while waiting for my permit?
In many cases yes, especially if you already hold a work-based permit. Rules differ by category — check with the migration authority before starting work.
What if my application is refused?
You almost always have the right to appeal. Free legal counselling is available through NGOs and, in some cases, publicly funded lawyers.
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