Why Romania is Your Gateway to European Freedom
Romania offers one of the most accessible pathways to EU citizenship, combining strategic advantages with practical benefits. As a full EU member and recent addition to the Schengen Zone, Romania provides visa-free access to over 175 countries and the right to live, work, and study anywhere in the European Union.
Key Timeline
Four Proven Pathways to Romanian Residency
Investment Route
Business Route
Ancestry Route
Family Route
Investment Pathway: Your Fast Track to Romanian Residency
Investment Requirements
Standard Investment Route
Minimum investment of €50,000 in a Romanian company as a director or shareholder. This pathway provides a temporary residence permit renewable annually.
Fast-Track Citizenship Route
Investment of €1,000,000 or creation of 100+ jobs qualifies for accelerated citizenship in 4 years instead of 8.
Process Timeline
Example Investment Scenario (Theoretical)
Consider Maria, a hypothetical entrepreneur who invests €75,000 in a Romanian IT services company. She obtains her business visa within 4 months, establishes her company operations, and after 5 years of continuous residence, applies for permanent residency. This example illustrates the typical pathway but individual circumstances may vary.
Business Pathway: Establish Your European Operations
Business Setup Requirements
Company Formation
Establish a Romanian SRL (Limited Liability Company) or SA (Joint Stock Company) with minimum share capital requirements.
Business Plan
Submit a comprehensive business plan demonstrating economic viability and potential job creation.
Financial Proof
Demonstrate sufficient funds to support yourself and your business operations in Romania.
Popular Business Sectors
- Technology & IT Services
- Food & Hospitality
- Logistics & Trade
- Real Estate
- Agriculture & Renewable Energy
Business Success Example (Hypothetical)
John, a theoretical software developer, establishes a Romanian tech consulting company. He secures contracts with European clients, employs 3 local staff members, and maintains his business operations for 5 years. This consistent business activity supports his permanent residency application. This is a representative example and actual results depend on individual circumstances and market conditions.
Ancestry Pathway: Reclaim Your Romanian Heritage
Eligibility Requirements
Qualifying Ancestors
You can claim Romanian citizenship if you have an ancestor who was:
- • Born in modern-day Romania
- • Born in former Romanian territories (Bukovina, parts of Bulgaria, Hungary, Moldova, Ukraine)
- • A Romanian citizen who lost citizenship due to historical events
Required Documentation
- • Birth certificates (ancestor and descendants)
- • Marriage certificates
- • Death certificates
- • Historical residence documents
Application Process
Ancestry Discovery Example (Illustrative)
Sarah, a hypothetical applicant, discovers through genealogical research that her great-grandfather was born in Transylvania in 1920, when it was part of Romania. She gathers the necessary birth and marriage certificates, has them translated and apostilled, and successfully applies for Romanian citizenship by descent. This example demonstrates the process but each case requires individual document verification and legal assessment.
Family Reunification: Unite with Your Romanian Spouse
Marriage-Based Residency
Accelerated Timeline
Married to a Romanian citizen? You can apply for citizenship after just 5 years of residence instead of the standard 8 years.
Required Documentation
- • Marriage certificate
- • Spouse's Romanian citizenship proof
- • Joint residence evidence
- • Financial support documentation
Other Family Connections
Children
Minor children of Romanian citizens can obtain residency and citizenship.
Parents
Parents of Romanian citizens may qualify for family reunification visas.
Partnerships
Recognized partnerships may qualify under specific circumstances.
The Complete Benefits Package
Romanian permanent residency and citizenship unlock a world of opportunities
Travel Freedom
- Visa-free travel to 175+ countries
- Full Schengen Zone access
- Global mobility ranking: 6th worldwide
- Business travel advantages
Work & Business
- Work anywhere in the EU
- Start businesses across Europe
- Access to EU markets
- Professional mobility
Rights & Benefits
- EU education access
- Healthcare benefits
- Voting rights
- Property ownership
Ready to Begin Your Romanian Residency Journey?
Expert guidance makes all the difference. Get personalized advice on the best pathway for your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get Romanian permanent residency?
You can apply for permanent residency after 5 years of continuous legal residence in Romania. The application process typically takes 3-6 months once you're eligible.
What's the minimum investment required for Romanian residency?
The minimum investment for a business visa is €50,000 as a company director. For fast-track citizenship, you need €1,000,000 investment or create 100+ jobs.
Can I maintain my original citizenship?
Romania allows dual citizenship, so you can typically maintain your original nationality while acquiring Romanian citizenship. However, check your home country's laws as some nations restrict dual citizenship.
Do I need to speak Romanian?
For citizenship, you need to demonstrate basic knowledge of Romanian language and culture. For residency permits, language requirements are generally minimal or non-existent.
How much time must I spend in Romania?
For permanent residency, you must maintain continuous residence with no more than 6 consecutive months absence. For citizenship, you need to demonstrate genuine residence and integration.
What happens if my application is rejected?
If your application is rejected, you typically have the right to appeal the decision or reapply with additional documentation. Professional legal assistance can significantly improve your chances of success.
Your European Future Starts Here
Don't navigate the complex Romanian residency process alone. Get expert guidance tailored to your specific situation.
Explore Your Options Now