Romania Digital Nomad Visa 2026: A Practical Guide for Freelancers and Employees

In Romania, you can get your work done during the week and spend weekends exploring Transylvania's medieval castles, decompressing in a cozy café in Bucharest’s Old Town, or hiking in the Carpathian mountains. 

In 2022, the Romanian government officially launched the Romania digital nomad visa, a dedicated long-stay visa category (symbol D/AS) created via Law 22/2022. This type of visa was specifically designed for remote workers, entrepreneurs, and freelancers who earn their income from outside the country.

Whether you're a software developer, consultant, or the owner of a company registered outside Romania, this digital nomad visa provides a legal pathway to work and live in Romania, one of Europe’s most affordable and connected nations.

What is the Romania Digital Nomad Visa?

The digital nomad visa in Romania is a long-term visa that allows non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens to reside in Romania while continuing to work remotely for an employer or company registered outside Romania. Unlike a standard business visa or tourist visa, which only allows short stays, this digital nomad visa permits you to remain in Romania for up to 12 months initially.

If you want to stay in Romania longer than the initial period, you can apply for a residence permit extension through the General Inspectorate for Immigration. This residence permit is typically renewable annually as long as you continue to meet the requirements. It's important to note that while you can live and work in Romania under this program, the visa does not allow local employment with a Romanian company or participation in the local labor market.

Digital Nomad Visa for Romania Requirements

To be eligible for the country's digital nomad program, foreigners in Romania must provide a comprehensive set of documents to the Romanian authorities. The main requirements include:

• Remote Work Status – You're an employee of a company registered outside of the country or own a company registered outside Romania that has been operating for at least three years. You must provide proof of remote work capability using digital technology.

• Income Threshold – You can demonstrate a monthly income that is at least three times the average gross salary in Romania.

• Proof of Income – As of 2024 and into 2025, this minimum monthly income is approximately €3,700 (around 18,000 RON; around US$4,385), representing three times the average gross monthly salary. You'll need to show this proof of income for the last six months preceding the submitting the visa application.

• Criminal Record – Provide a criminal record certificate (or criminal record certificate issued by your country of residence) proving you have no records of criminal offenses.

• Health Insurance – Proof of private health insurance with a coverage of at least €30,000 (about US$35,500) for the intended stay in Romania.

• Accommodation: You must show proof of accommodation in the form of a rental agreement or other accommodation arrangements.

The Application Process: Step-by-Step

The application process for the Romanian digital nomad visa involves two primary stages: the initial visa application abroad and obtaining a residence permit once you enter Romania.

1. Prepare Documents – Gather your passport (valid for 6 months beyond stay), photos, and proof of income. All official documents, including your employment agreement and criminal record, must be translated into Romanian by an authorized translator.

   
   

2. Submit the Visa Application – Submit your completed completed visa application form and the supporting package to a Romanian consulate or embassy in your country of residence.

   
   

3. Pay the Visa Fee – The digital nomad visa cost is typically €120.

   
   

4. Wait for Processing – The visa application review usually takes between 30 and 45 days.

   
   

5. Enter Romania – Once approved, your long-stay visa is valid for 90 days.

   
   

6. Obtain a Residence Permit – To remain in Romania for the full 12 months, you must apply for a residence permit at the General Inspectorate for Immigration before your 90 days visa expires.

   
   

Romanian Tax for Digital Nomads

One of the most attractive reasons to choose Romania for remote work is the favorable income tax treatment. Under the Romanian digital nomad visa, foreigners are initially exempt from paying income tax and social contributions on their remote earnings.

However, your tax resident status changes based on the length of your stay:

• Under 183 Days – You generally don't pay income tax or tax and social contributions in Romania on your foreign income.

• Over 183 Days – If you stay in Romania for more than 183 days within a 12-month period, you're considered one of the country's tax residents. At this point, you become subject to Romanian tax on your worldwide income, which is currently a flat rate of 10%. You must register with ANAF (the Romanian Tax Authority) within 30 days of reaching this threshold.

Life in Romania as a Digital Nomad

Romania offers a range of lifestyles, from the "Little Paris" vibes of Bucharest to the tech-focused "Silicon Valley of Romania" in Cluj-Napoca. Digital nomads in Romania enjoy an  affordable cost of living.

Internet Infrastructure

Romania consistently ranks among the top countries globally for internet speed. In 2024, it boasted median download speeds of over 200 Mbps – ideal for remote workers.

Cost of Living

A single foreigner can often live comfortably on €1,200 to €1,800 per month (about US$1,400 to US$2,100). Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in city centers varies from €490 (US$580) in Brașov to around €600-€800 (US$700-950) in Bucharest.

Networking

You'll find a growing community of digital nomads and residents in Romania, so with a little effort, you can quickly build a like-minded community.

Is the Romania Digital Nomad Visa Worth It for You?

We think it's at least worth considering. You get a European base from which to explore, great affordability, and fast internet. What more do you need?

In fact, Romania as a digital nomad destination is one of Europe's best-kept secrets. If you can meet the least three times the average gross income requirement, move to Romania in 2026 to enjoy a high quality of life and incredible mountain views while you work remotely. Start your visa to Romania journey today by contacting your local Romanian consulate!

You may also want to try some of Romania's neighbors. Check out our guide to the Hungary digital nomad visa. Or, go for something totally different and learn how you can work remotely in the Seychelles.

FAQs: The Romania Remote Work Visa

Who can apply for the Romania digital nomad visa?

Non-EU/EEA citizens who work remotely for a company registered outside Romania or own a company incorporated abroad.

What is the minimum monthly income requirement?

You need show proof of income of at least three times the average monthly salary in Romania, which currently totals approximately €3,700 (approx. US$4,385).

Can I work for a Romanian company with this visa?

No. You're not permitted to work for a local employer; you must work remotely for foreign entities on the Romania digital nomad visa.

How long can I stay in Romania on the digital nomad visa?

The visa allows an initial stay of 12 months, which can be extended via a residence permit.