Romania is a great place for digital nomads. With a rich history and deep culture, this country promises an authentic way of life. Digital nomads can settle down here and set up shop while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.
If you are thinking about packing your bags and moving here, make sure to learn some basic essentials about the visa policy.
This article delves into just that and explores how Romania accommodates the digital nomad community with its visa.
Does Romania have a Digital Nomad Visa?
Romania started offering a digital nomad visa in 2021 which makes it easy for freelancers, remote workers, and nomads to settle here. Under this new digital nomad visa program, Romania allows digital nomads from all over the world to live in the country for up to one year while working remotely.
With flexible renewal and tax policies, Romania’s digital nomad visa caters to a large public and invites people to come and enjoy this beautiful European country. The Romanian government originally launched it in 2021 with an intention to increase tourism and elevate the local economy. The applications have been live ever since and you can apply whenever you want!
Who can Apply for the Romania Digital Nomad Visa?
This visa is best suited for remote workers who wish to live temporarily in Romania while continuing their work remotely. Here are the factors that determine whether you qualify for a Romania’s Digital Nomad Visa
Eligibility criteria
- Remote workers, employed by a foreign company
- Business owners, with companies in a foreign country
- Freelancers, providing services to foreign nationals
- Citizens of non-EU countries and non-EEA countries
- Clean criminal record in the country of origin (home country)
- Meet the minimum income requirement
- Self-employed individuals: you must be able to prove that you can work remotely.
How do you apply for a Digital Nomad Visa in Romania?
Here is a comprehensive step-by-step guide to applying for a Digital Nomad Visa in Romania.
- Make an appointment or account.
You’ll need to contact the nearest Romanian embassy in the country of your residence. Although you can visit directly too, it is advised to set a time beforehand. This will help you avoid any delays and get the necessary information about the next steps.
If you are applying online, open the E-visa portal and make an account.
- Gather the necessary documents.
Your agent will guide you regarding the required documents while making the appointment. This step requires special attention because the accuracy of your application determines the processing time. In case you aren’t sure about the required documents, keep reading to get a brief overview.
- Fill out the application form
This step includes a lot of intricate details. Hence, the necessary amount of attention should be given. The form is available in English. However, if you’re applying in person then you’ll need to print an application form and fill it out before submitting it.
- Submitting the application
The Romanian authorities allow you to submit applications through accessible means. You can submit it online on the official website and It’ll reach the relevant authorities. Following that, you will receive confirmation and your caseworker will contact you for further details.
You can also submit your application in person at the nearest Romanian consulate or embassy in your country. In-person applicants will be guided throughout the entire process.
- Pay the fee
You’ll need to pay the visa fee after submitting the required documents. It can be paid via different means including credit cards.
- Wait for feedback
Now that you have done everything on your part, all you need to do is wait. The relevant authorities will process your application at their earliest convenience and send feedback. Upon receiving approval, you can enter Romania.
- Apply for a residency permit.
In case you have been approved for a digital nomad visa, you’ll need to apply for a residence permit and you have 90 days to do so. It can be done at the General Inspectorate of Immigration or IGI.
How Much Does it Cost?
Luckily, the Romanian digital nomad visa isn’t all that expensive. While the digital nomad visa application itself costs €120 per person, the residence permit costs another payment of €120.
Additional costs may be incurred in having the documents translated, outsourcing agents, going to the embassy and traveling. Family members including spouses, children, and dependents will incur separate costs as well.
Romania Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
There are some requirements that you must fulfill to get this visa.
Documentations
You must have the following documents with you when you submit your visa application.
- Valid passport: a passport that will remain valid for the entire duration of your intended stay in Romania. You must submit a copy of the biometric page.
- Proof of employment: Applicants must submit proof that they are currently working for a business based outside of Romania. This could be proved by submitting an employment contract, Pay Slips, a letter from a foreign employer, or any other documents.
- Remote job: applicants must be able to prove that if they are not employed in a foreign country, they are either self-employed or they are working as freelancers. You can prove this by submitting adequate business documentation.
- Proof of financial means: you can submit proof of income in the form of payslips or bank statements.
- Proof of health insurance: medical insurance that will remain valid throughout your stay. The minimum coverage is €30,000.
- Letter of intent: a letter stating the purpose of your stay in Romania.
- Proof of tax duties: an apostilled document stating that you are up to your tax duties and obligations.
- Travel information: it can include things like flight information, tickets, driver’s license, etc.
- Proof of accommodation: you must provide evidence about your residence.
Financial requirements
The minimum wage requirement for a Romanian digital nomad visa is quite specific. You must earn three times the national average gross income (the average Romanian salary). You must submit bank statements portraying the stability of your income and savings and show that you earned at least €3700 in the last 6 months.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Romania Digital Nomad Visa?
The duration and processing time for a Romanian digital nomad visa mainly depend on your method of application. Individuals who apply via the online portal can expect a response within 7-14 working days. The relevant departments are efficient so as long as your visa application is complete and accurate, you’ll receive the feedback soon.
However, the application process through embassies and consulates can take longer. The visa application can take up to 60 days to get processed.
Benefits of the Romania Digital Nomad Visa
Rich culture and natural beauty
Romania has a vibrant culture that is a concoction of various elements. Thanks to its rich history, you will see Hungarian, German, and even Jewish influence. Romania is a lively tapestry that depicts its local culture in various forms including but not limited to Music, Art, Literature, cultural events, and Folklore. Located in Europe, Romania is a haven for nature lovers. There are a bunch of stunning hiking trails, Green spaces, green areas, and parks located all over the country. Other than that, you’ll be sure to find the lush greenery quite refreshing.
Amazing food
Romanian cuisine is pretty decent, depending on your personal preference. However, if you do like European food, you’ll find this attractive destination to be a perfect place for food touring and cafe hopping. There are lots of restaurants, coffee shops, and street vendors in the country who follow traditional recipes and offer delicious food. Make sure to try the infamous cabbage rolls and meat rolls.
Fast internet speeds
One of the best things about Romania is its high-speed internet. Remote workers would be happy to learn that the country experiences high internet speeds. As per estimations, the average fixed broadband speed is 123.31 Mbps (which is considered extraordinary). Fibre internet is fast and reliable in most parts of the country. Other than that, coworking spaces and coffee shops offer fast and free WiFi as well. You can take your work with you and meet those deadlines! If you want additional reliability, consider purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival. There are a bunch of good providers in the country that offer affordable and efficient data plans.
Do Digital Nomads Pay Tax in Romania?
Romania has a flexible tax policy that varies based on specific circumstances. Whether you are subject to taxes is defined by the amount of time you spend in the country.
In simple words, anyone who spends more than 183 days won’t have to pay Romanian social security, social healthcare, or income tax. This new policy was announced in 2023 and it has attracted even more remote workers.
Renew Digital Nomad Visa Romania
A Romanian digital nomad visa is originally designed to last for a period of 1 year. However, you can re-apply and extend the term as long as you continue to meet the visa requirements. The visa can be renewed for another year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Romanian city for digital nomads?
Located in the River Dâmbovița, southeastern Romania, Bucharest is the capital city of Romania. Everything from its natural beauty and internet connection to architectural history and culture is splendid. You can settle here for an extended period of time and experience the ultimate digital nomad lifestyle.
What is the correct format for documents if you are applying online?
The documents need to be in either of the following formats: jpg, jpeg, png, bmp, rtf, tif, txt, or pdf, and must be less than 2MB. File names must also be in Latin characters.
What are some other visa options in Romania?
In addition to Romania’s digital nomad visa, there are several other options. The best ones include tourist visas, short-stay visas (c type), long-stay visas (d type), and transit visas.
What are the best European countries for digital nomads?
Some of the best options include the following countries:
- Czech republic
- Croatia
- Estonia
- Greece
- Montenegro
Can EU and Schengen area citizens enter Romania without a visa?
Since Romania is a European country and is a part of the European Union, EU citizens can enter the country without a visa and stay. However, the EU/Schengen zone agreement terms don’t apply here, and only the former can enjoy Visa-free entry.
Final Thoughts
Conclusively, we can say that Romania deserves all the hype it is getting. This ideal location is packed with opportunities and amenities. Digital nomads and remote workers can expect to have a fulfilling time here, thanks to all the facilities. Everything from its natural beauty and internet connection to architectural history and affordable cost of living is splendid. You can settle here for an extended period of time and experience the ultimate digital nomad lifestyle.
If this beautiful country has convinced you to pack your bags and move here then the Romania digital nomad visa has got you covered. We hope this article provides you with the necessary information and clears your doubts. If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us and we’d be happy to help.
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