Romania offers a Digital Nomad Visa designed to attract remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs from outside the European Union who wish to live and work in the country while maintaining employment abroad. Launched in 2021, this visa allows eligible individuals to reside in Romania for up to one year, with the option to renew for another year if the conditions are met. Romania stands out due to its low cost of living, fast internet speeds, and scenic landscapes, making it an appealing destination for digital nomads.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Romanian Digital Nomad Visa, you must meet several conditions:
- Employment Requirement: You need to be employed by a company based outside Romania or be self-employed, offering services to foreign clients using telecommunications technology.
- Income Requirement: Applicants must prove that they earn at least €3,700 per month (three times the average Romanian gross salary). You must show bank statements for the last six months as proof of income.
- Health Insurance: You must have health insurance valid in Romania, covering at least €30,000 worth of medical expenses for your stay.
- Clean Criminal Record: A criminal background check is required from your home country, and the document must be apostilled and translated into Romanian.
- Accommodation Proof: You must provide proof of accommodation, such as a rental agreement or hotel booking, for the duration of your stay in Romania.
Application Process
- Prepare the Required Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including your passport, proof of employment, income statements, and health insurance. All documents must be translated into Romanian.
- Submit the Application Online: You can apply through Romania’s eVisa platform. The application form needs to be filled out with personal and professional details, and the visa fees must be paid online.
- Visa Processing: Once submitted, the visa processing takes approximately 10 to 14 days. You may need to visit a Romanian embassy for final approval or have the visa sent electronically, depending on your country of residence.
- Residence Permit: After entering Romania, you are required to apply for a residence permit at the local office of the General Inspectorate for Immigration, which will allow you to legally stay for up to one year.
Costs and Fees
- Visa Application Fee: Around €100 (~490 RON).
- Residence Permit: Approximately €120 (~590 RON) once in Romania.
- Health Insurance: Costs can vary based on the provider and coverage, but it’s typically between €200 and €400for a year.
Tax Considerations
Digital nomads living in Romania for less than 183 days per year are not considered tax residents, meaning they won’t be taxed on their worldwide income if they have tax residency elsewhere. However, if you stay beyond 183 days, you may be subject to local taxation. It’s recommended to consult a tax advisor to ensure compliance with Romanian tax laws.
Living in Romania as a Digital Nomad
Romania is known for its low cost of living, which makes it particularly attractive for digital nomads. For example, rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center ranges from €300 to €500 depending on the city, while groceries and utilities are also quite affordable. Popular cities for digital nomads include Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Brasov, each offering a mix of modern infrastructure, coworking spaces, and vibrant cultural scenes. Romania also boasts some of the fastest internet speeds in Europe, making it an ideal location for remote work.
Conclusion
Romania’s Digital Nomad Visa offers an affordable and attractive option for remote workers seeking to experience life in Eastern Europe. With its relatively low income requirement, fast processing times, and the country’s low cost of living, Romania is positioning itself as a top destination for digital nomads. For more information or to begin the application process, visit the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs eVisa portal here