Romania, an Eastern European country known for some of the world’s legendary storybook exploits, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes has become one of the most popular destinations for digital nomads.
In December 2021, Romania launched its Long Stay Visa for Digital Nomads, heeding the call to embrace the global remote and digital nomad lifestyle as a way to boost their economy in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Long Stay Visa is open to non-EU nationals and allows holders to live and work remotely in the country for up to 12 months, with an option to extend provided you meet the criteria for eligibility. Foreign income earned during their stay in Romania is tax-free, subject to tax residency policies in place.
Romania boasts of having one of the fastest internet speeds in Europe, a relatively lower cost of living compared to many of its neighboring countries in the region, and is home to one of the world’s most influential and literary fictional characters, Count Dracula of Transylvania.
In this article, we delve into the Romania Long Stay Visa for digital nomads and cover the essentials- eligibility criteria, application process, and financial requirements—ensuring you have all the information you need to make an informed decision.
What is the Romania Digital Nomad Visa?
The Romania Digital Nomad Visa, officially known as the Long Stay Visa for Digital Nomads, represents a significant advancement in Romania’s approach to embracing the global digital workforce.
This visa allows foreign nationals who work remotely for companies outside Romania or are self-employed in a digital profession, to live in Romania while continuing their professional activities.
- Employment Status: Applicants must prove they are employed with companies registered outside of Romania or are self-employed in a digital field.
- Income Requirement: There is a minimum income threshold that applicants must meet, typically set at a level significantly higher than the average income in Romania, ensuring financial independence.
- Proof of Remote Work: Evidence of the ability to perform work remotely, through contracts or other legal documents.
- Documentation: Applicants need to provide documents proving their employment status, income level, health insurance coverage, and accommodation in Romania.
- Application Venue: The application can usually be initiated at the Romanian consulate or embassy in the applicant’s home country.
- Duration: The visa allows for an initial stay of up to one year, with the possibility of an extension if the eligibility criteria continue to be met.
Situated at the crossroads of Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe, Romania offers an excellent base for digital nomads looking to explore the continent. Its strategic location means easy travel to neighboring countries and quick access to diverse cultures, landscapes, and experiences.
The Benefits of the Romania Digital Nomad Visa
The Romania Digital Nomad Visa offers several enticing benefits and unique features that make Romania an inviting destination for digital nomads. Here are some of the key highlights and trivia that add to its appeal:
- Tax Incentives: One of the most appealing aspects of the Romania digital nomad visa is the tax advantage for digital nomads. If you are paying taxes in your home country, Romania does not levy additional income tax on your global earnings, making it financially attractive.
- Duration and Renewability: The visa is initially valid for one year, with the option to renew for another year. This offers digital nomads the flexibility to plan longer stays in Romania, immersing themselves in the local culture and exploring the country.
- Low Cost of Living: Romania boasts one of the lowest costs of living in Europe, without compromising on the quality of life. This economic advantage allows digital nomads to enjoy a high standard of living while managing their expenses effectively.
- Fast Internet Speed: Known for having one of the fastest internet speeds in Europe, Romania ensures that digital nomads can work efficiently and stay connected with their global clients or team members without any hassle.
- Rich Cultural and Natural Landscape: From the active city life of Bucharest to the scenic beauty of Transylvania and the Black Sea coast, Romania offers a diverse range of environments to suit any preference. The country’s rich history and cultural heritage provide a stimulating backdrop for work and leisure.
- Tech-Friendly Environment: Romania’s recognition as an emerging tech hub, especially in cities like Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca, means digital nomads can find a thriving community of tech professionals and startups. This environment fosters networking and collaboration opportunities.
- Cultural Diversity: Romania’s diverse cultural influences, from Latin, to Slavic, to Ottoman, are reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Digital nomads can experience a unique blend of cultures that enriches their stay.
- Outdoor Adventures: For those who love nature and adventure, Romania offers vast opportunities for hiking, skiing, and exploring natural landscapes. The Carpathian Mountains and the Danube Delta are just a couple of examples where nomads can enjoy outdoor activities.
- Visa-Free Schengen Travel: While the digital nomad visa does not directly offer Schengen area access without additional visas, Romania’s position as an EU country and its proximity to Schengen states make it a convenient base for exploring Europe.
These benefits and unique features make Romania an increasingly popular choice among digital nomads looking for their next remote destination. The combination of financial advantages, cultural richness, and natural beauty, along with a welcoming environment for tech professionals, positions Romania as an ideal spot for remote workers seeking a blend of work and travel.
The Romania Digital Nomad Visa – Requirements, Application & Costs
To apply for the Romania Digital Nomad Visa, also known as the Long Stay Visa for Other Purposes – D/AS (For Nomads), applicants need to fulfill specific requirements and submit a comprehensive set of documents.
This visa aims to attract remote workers by offering them the opportunity to live and work in Romania, leveraging the country’s rich culture, fast internet, and affordable living costs.
Requirements:
- Ability to Work Remotely: You must demonstrate that your work can be performed remotely, using digital technologies, from anywhere outside Romania.
- Non-Romanian Employer or Business: If employed, your employer should not be registered in Romania. Freelancers and entrepreneurs must show that their business activities are conducted with clients or companies outside of Romania.
- Age Requirement: While specific age requirements are not explicitly mentioned, applicants should be of legal working age, typically 18 years or older.
- Valid Passport: Your passport must have at least 6 months of validity beyond your intended stay in Romania.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance coverage for the entire duration of the stay, covering at least €30,000.
- Criminal Record Certificate: A clean criminal record from your country of residence or from any country where you have lived in the past year.
- Proof of Accommodation: Evidence of a place to stay in Romania, such as a hotel reservation, rental agreement, or property ownership.
- Income Threshold: Applicants must prove they have a stable and substantial income to support themselves during their stay. This is typically quantified as having average earnings three times the gross monthly average salary in Romania over the past six months. The income threshold has been reported to range between €3,300 and €3,700 for the past six months.
- Bank Statements: Documentation to prove financial stability, such as bank statements or proof of income.
- Initial Visa Validity: The Romania Digital Nomad Visa is initially valid for one year and can be renewed for another year upon meeting the renewal criteria, including proving continued income and remote work capability.
- Renewal Process: To extend the visa, applicants need to present verifiable proof of income for the preceding six months and meet all previously mentioned criteria.
Application Process
The application process can be started online, which is convenient for digital nomads located anywhere in the world.
Specifics such as the visa fee amount, document format, and other minute details should be verified on the eVisa platform or through direct communication with a Romanian consulate or embassy, as there might be changes or policy revisions that need your attention.
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the Romania Digital Nomad Visa, including the ability to work remotely for a company not registered in Romania or running a business that operates with clients outside Romania. Also, check the financial requirements to prove you have a stable income.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Prepare the necessary documents, which typically include:
- Proof of remote work capability.
- Financial proof of stable and sufficient income.
- Health insurance is valid for the duration of your stay.
- Criminal record certificate.
- Proof of accommodation in Romania.
- Valid passport and passport-sized photos.
Step 3: Choose the Application Platform
Decide whether to apply online or at a Romanian embassy or consulate in your country. The online process is facilitated through the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ eVisa platform.
Step 4: Register on eVisa and Fill Out the Application
If applying online, create an account on the eVisa platform, fill out the application form with the required information, and upload the necessary documents.
Step 5: Pay the Visa Fees
After completing the application form, you will be prompted to pay the visa fees. This usually occurs towards the end of the online application process. The fee must be paid online as part of the application submission process.
Step 6: Submit the Application
Review your application and submit it once you are sure all the information is accurate and all required documents have been uploaded.
Step 7: Visa Processing
After submitting your application, there will be a waiting period for processing, which can take between 10 to 14 business days. During this time, your application will be reviewed, and you may be contacted for additional information or clarification.
Step 8: Receiving Your Visa
Once your application is approved, you will be notified, and your visa will be issued. If you applied online, you might need to visit a Romanian embassy or consulate to have the visa stamped on your passport, or it might be sent to you electronically, depending on the local procedures.
Step 9: Entering Romania
With the visa, you can now enter Romania. Ensure you carry all the original documents you submitted during the application process, as you may need to present them at the border control.
Step 10: Staying in Romania
Once in Romania, adhere to the conditions of your visa, including not undertaking local employment. You can renew your visa near its expiration if you wish to extend your stay, following a similar process and proving your ongoing eligibility.
Costs
Note that the local currency in Romania is the Romanian Leu (RON), but for broader understanding, costs may also be referenced in USD (to convert to RON, you might use the current exchange rate for more accuracy).
- Visa Application Fee: The application fee for a Romania Digital Nomad Visa is approximately €100 (roughly 490 RON or $110 USD). This fee is paid at the time of application submission.
- Residence Permit Application Fee: Once in Romania, you need to apply for a residence permit. The cost is around €120 (approximately 590 RON or $130 USD).
- Health Insurance: Applicants must have health insurance coverage for the duration of their stay. The cost can vary significantly based on coverage, age, and the insurance provider. An average estimate might be around €200-€400 (980 to 1960 RON or $220-$440 USD) for a year.
- Proof of Financial Means: You need to demonstrate sufficient funds to support your stay. While this is not a direct cost, you earn at least three times the average monthly income of €1,100 (approximately 5400 RON or $1200 USD) in Romania which ranges between €3,300 and €3,700 over the last 6 months. There is no direct fee, but it’s a financial requirement.
- Accommodation Proof: Renting a place or a hotel booking can serve as proof. The cost varies widely depending on the city and type of accommodation.
- Legal and Translation Services: If you use the services of a legal advisor or need documents translated, the costs can vary. For translation services, you might expect to pay around €20-€50 (98 to 245 RON or $22-$55 USD) per page.
- Background Check: Some applicants might need to provide a criminal record certificate, which can involve a fee depending on the country of origin. In the U.S., for example, this might cost around $18-$50 (approximately 88 to 245 RON or $20-$55 USD).
Payment Methods
- Visa and Residence Permit Fees: These fees are typically paid either online or at the consulate/embassy when you apply. Payment methods can include credit/debit cards, bank transfers, or cas