For non-EU/EEA citizens who wish to live, work, study, or conduct business in Romania, the process of obtaining or extending a visa or residence permit is essential. Below is a clear and structured overview of the steps, criteria, documents, and practical advice — all explained in simple language.

1. The difference between a visa and a residence permit

If you plan to stay in Romania for more than 90 days (and you come from a country that does not have a visa-free regime), you will first need a long-stay visa (type “D”) or another valid entry document.
Once in Romania, you must apply for a temporary residence permit (for the relevant purpose: work, study, business, family reunification, etc.) from the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI).
If you have maintained continuous legal residence for several years (usually 5 years) and meet the required conditions, you may apply for a long-term or permanent residence permit.

2. How to obtain a temporary residence permit

a) General conditions

To obtain a temporary residence permit, you must meet certain requirements: a valid passport, a clear purpose of stay (work, business, family, study), valid health insurance, proof of residence in Romania, and sufficient financial means.
 If the purpose of your stay is employment, you must hold a valid work authorization or employment contract according to Romanian law.

b) Main steps

• Enter Romania with the appropriate visa (if required).
• Fill out the temporary residence application form at the IGI office corresponding to your local address.
• Submit the required documents: passport, proof of residence, health insurance, justification of stay, proof of financial resources.
• Pay the processing fee (as required by law).
• Once approved, you will receive a residence card valid for a limited period (usually one year or more, depending on the purpose).

3. How to extend your residence permit

You must apply for an extension of your residence right before your current permit expires — ideally at least 30 days in advance.
The procedure involves completing a new application, updating relevant documents (proof of continued purpose of stay, health insurance, address, and financial means), and paying the necessary fees.
If your stay is based on employment, you must maintain the same purpose — changing it (for example, from student to employee) requires a new residence authorization.

4. How to obtain long-term or permanent residence

For non-EU/EEA citizens: after at least five years of continuous legal residence in Romania (under a temporary permit), you may apply for long-term residence status.
Conditions include: uninterrupted stay (with limited absences), valid social insurance, sufficient legal income, and a record of lawful conduct compatible with public safety.
A long-term residence permit grants rights similar to those of Romanian citizens — including access to employment, education, and public services.

5. Practical tips for expats in Bucharest

• Check your visa or residence permit’s expiry date in advance — start the renewal process early to avoid overstaying illegally.
• Keep copies of key documents: passport, residence permit, employment contract or supporting documents, proof of address, and health insurance.
• Make sure your declared residence address is valid and legally documented (rental agreement or ownership deed).
• When changing your purpose of stay (e.g., student → employee → entrepreneur), gather information and complete the required formalities — otherwise your residence rights may be revoked.
• If your family members (spouse, children) plan to join you, check the family reunification procedure — it requires prior approval from IGI.

6. What to avoid and what to be careful about

• Do not stay in Romania with an expired permit — this may result in fines, entry bans, or revocation of residence rights.
• Do not ignore IGI notifications — if you are asked for additional documents, respond within the given deadline.
• Always maintain valid health insurance — most procedures require proof of coverage.
• Do not change the purpose of your residence (work, business, study) without officially requesting modification — doing so can cause legal complications.

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For expats living in Romania — and especially in Bucharest — it’s essential to understand each step: obtaining your visa or residence permit, renewing it, and, if planning to stay long-term, applying for permanent residence. Following the legal procedures, preparing your documents in advance, and working closely with the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) will ensure a smooth and lawful residence experience. If you plan to extend your stay or apply for long-term residence, plan ahead and regularly check official information sources.