Romania has introduced important new changes in 2026 for foreign workers, employers, recruitment agencies, and work permit procedures.
The new rules mainly focus on:
- Stricter employer monitoring
- Digital work permit systems
- Better worker protection
- More control against illegal recruitment
- Updated visa and employment procedures
These updates affect non-European Union (non-EU) foreign workers who want to work legally in Romania.
Romania Approved 90,000 Foreign Worker Permits for 2026
Romania officially approved around 90,000 foreign worker permits for 2026.
Although slightly lower than previous years, Romania still continues hiring large numbers of foreign workers because of labour shortages in many industries.
Industries in Romania Hiring Foreign Workers
Romania still has strong demand for workers in sectors such as:
- Construction
- Factory and production work
- Warehouse jobs
- Delivery and logistics
- Hotel and restaurant work
- Cooking and kitchen work
- Driving jobs
- Agriculture
- Caregiver and home support jobs
- General labour work
New Digital System for Foreign Workers
Romania is moving many immigration and employment procedures online through a digital platform called:
WorkinRomania.gov.ro
The system is expected to help manage:
- Work permit applications
- Employer registrations
- Foreign worker approvals
- Employment records
- Recruitment monitoring
Stricter Rules for Employers
Romania has introduced stricter requirements for companies hiring foreign workers.
Employers may now need:
- Clean tax records
- No serious labour law violations
- Proof of real business activity
- Compliance with employment regulations
Authorities are increasing checks to prevent illegal employment and fake recruitment.
New Employer Categories
Under the updated system, employers may be classified as:
- Registered Employers
- Authorized Employers
Authorized employers may face stricter monitoring and additional responsibilities.
New Visa Categories Introduced
Romania introduced new visa categories for foreign workers:
D/AM1 Visa
Mainly for:
- Highly qualified workers
- Special employment categories
- Certain regional labour programs
D/AM2 Visa
Mainly for:
- Permanent workers
- Seasonal workers
- Cross-border workers
Shortage Occupation List
Romania is also using a “shortage occupation list” for jobs where local workers are not available.
Many foreign workers may only be recruited for occupations included on this list.
This system helps Romania focus on industries with serious labour shortages.
Mandatory Employment Contracts
Some new rules require:
- Clear written employment contracts
- Bilingual contracts in some situations
- Better worker protection measures
- Clear salary and job condition information
Stronger Monitoring and Penalties
Romanian authorities introduced stricter penalties for:
- Illegal employment
- Fake recruitment
- Labour exploitation
- Contract violations
Employers and agencies violating the rules may face heavy fines and legal action.
Important Changes for Foreign Workers
Foreign workers should now:
- Use licensed recruitment agencies
- Check employer legitimacy carefully
- Read contracts properly before signing
- Follow official immigration procedures
- Keep copies of all documents
Warning About Fake Job Offers
Many scammers target foreign workers online using fake Romania job offers.
Be careful if someone:
- Promises guaranteed visa approval
- Requests large unofficial payments
- Refuses written contracts
- Uses only WhatsApp or social media communication
- Offers unrealistic salaries
Always verify agencies and employers through official government sources.
Official Government Links
Romanian Immigration Inspectorate (IGI):
https://igi.mai.gov.ro/en/
Employment and Posting Information:
EU Immigration Portal – Romania:
https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies/migration-and-asylum/eu-immigration-portal/employed-worker-romania_en
Final Words
Romania continues to offer work opportunities for foreign workers in 2026, especially in sectors facing labour shortages.
However, the country is also introducing stricter rules, digital monitoring systems, and stronger legal controls to improve transparency and reduce illegal recruitment.
Before applying, always check the latest official immigration rules and use only trusted recruitment channels.
