The Romanian authorities have enacted a significant overhaul of its immigration framework for non-EU workers. Published in the Official Gazette on April 27, 2026, the Emergency Ordinance No. 32/2026 on the access of foreigners to the Romanian labour market introduces a digitalised system to replace the current work permit and visa process.
While the legislation is legally in force from the date of publication, full operational implementation is contingent on the launch of the new WorkinRomania.gov.ro digital platform, currently anticipated for August 8, 2026. During the transitional implementation, applications will be processed under the current immigration rules and process.
New Visa Categories
The existing framework will be replaced by two new long-stay visa types:
- D/AM1 for highly qualified workers and special categories, not subject to quotas or the List of Shortage Occupations
- D/AM2 for general labour, subject to an annual quota and a newly introduced List of Shortage Occupations
Digital Platform
A new centralised platform will replace the current multi-step process, serving as the single point of submission for all employer registrations and visa applications. The platform is in testing and is scheduled to go live on 8 August 2026.
Employers should anticipate procedural complexity during the initial phase as workflows are stabilised.
Employer Classifications
Two employer categories are introduced — Registered and Authorised — with the latter subject to stricter eligibility.
Posted Workers
The new law provides important clarification on the scope of a ‘Posted Worker’ (detașat) concept for non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals, which limits this category of workers to non-EU nationals seconded to work in Romania by an employer established in an EU/EEA member state or Switzerland.
The position of EU/EEA and Swiss nationals posted to work in Romania is unchanged.
Employer Obligations
The new law proposes additional obligations to employers, including mandatory bilingual employment contracts; minimum language training requirements for workers and stricter reporting requirements.
Enhanced Traceability
The new D/AM1 and D/AM2 visas will include the worker’s Romanian personal identification number (CNP) on the visa sticker; residence permits will display the employer’s unique registration code (CUI).
What this means for employers
Romania’s reforms represent a step toward a more transparent and digitally managed immigration system. However, companies should not underestimate the compliance burden introduced alongside these changes. The combination of new employer classifications, mandatory bilingual contracts, enhanced reporting obligations, and quota constraints will require careful internal planning — particularly during the transitional period, when procedural uncertainty is likely to be at its highest.
In preparation for the full implementation of the new rules, companies should consider the below suggested action points:
- Review all current and planned hires of non-EU nationals in Romania to assess which visa category will apply.
- Audit any non-EU posting arrangements and restructure as ICT or direct local employment where necessary.
- Monitor publication of the List of Shortage Occupations (due within 45 days of enforcement) to confirm D/AM2 eligibility.
- Prepare for registration or authorisation ahead of the August platform launch.
- Engage local counsel to assess compliance with new contract, reporting, and language training obligations.
This immigration update is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal or scenario-specific advice. Furthermore, it is important to note that immigration announcements are subject to sudden and unexpected changes. Readers are encouraged to reach out to Newland Chase for any case- or company-specific assessments.
