Romania Work Immigration: Growing Need for Third-Country Workers

Romania Work Immigration: Growing Need for Third-Country Workers

As of June 2026, Romania is facing a significant labor shortage, with the National Institute of Statistics (INS) reporting a **14.5%** increase in job vacancies in the first quarter of 2026 compared to the same period last year. This shortage has led to a growing need for third-country workers, with the Romanian government announcing plans to simplify **Romania foreign worker immigration rules** to attract more foreign labor. According to a statement by the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection, the government aims to issue **30,000** new work permits to non-EU citizens by the end of 2026.

The labor shortage in Romania is particularly acute in sectors such as IT, healthcare, and manufacturing, with companies struggling to find qualified workers to fill vacant positions. The Romanian government has responded by introducing the **"Work in Romania"** program, which aims to promote the country as a destination for foreign workers and provide support for companies looking to hire non-EU citizens. The program includes measures such as streamlined work permit procedures, language training, and cultural orientation for new arrivals.

Immigration Policy Changes

The Romanian government has announced several changes to its immigration policy aimed at attracting more foreign workers. These changes include:

• **Simplified work permit procedures**: The government has reduced the processing time for work permits from **30 days** to **10 days** for certain categories of workers, including IT professionals and healthcare workers.
• **Increased salary thresholds**: The minimum salary threshold for foreign workers has been increased to **€1,200** per month, in an effort to attract more highly skilled workers.
• **New categories of workers**: The government has introduced new categories of workers who are eligible for work permits, including **start-up founders** and **digital nomads**.

According to a report by the European Commission, Romania's labor market is expected to face significant challenges in the coming years, with a projected **20%** decrease in the working-age population by 2030. The report highlights the need for Romania to attract more foreign workers to fill labor gaps and support economic growth.

Immigrant Perspective

For many immigrants, the changes to Romania's immigration policy are a welcome development. **Ahmed Hassan**, a software engineer from Egypt, has been living in Romania for two years and has experienced firsthand the challenges of navigating the country's immigration system. "The new rules are a big improvement," he says. "The simplified work permit procedure and increased salary threshold will make it easier for me to bring my family to Romania and build a life here."

However, some immigrants have expressed concerns about the increased competition for jobs and the potential impact on wages. **Maria Rodriguez**, a nurse from the Philippines, has been working in Romania for five years and is worried about the influx of new foreign workers. "I'm not sure how this will affect my job security," she says. "I hope the government will ensure that foreign workers are not exploited and that wages are fair for all workers."

Practical Advice

For individuals looking to work in Romania, it is essential to stay informed about the latest developments in the country's immigration policy. The Romanian government's website provides up-to-date information on **Romania foreign worker immigration rules** and the application process for work permits. Additionally, resources such as LetterHelp AI can provide assistance with official correspondence and help individuals navigate the complexities of the immigration system.