There are two types of Residence Permits in Romania:

1. The temporary residence/stay permit:

Foreigners who have long-stay visas for Romania can acquire a temporary residence permit. This permit can be prolonged for 1-5 years through an application and required documents managed by the IGI, based on the purpose. The application needs to be lodged at least 30 days before the permit or visa expiration.

The temporary residence permit is granted if the applicant:

• has a valid travel document
• can prove a legal place of residence
• possesses national health insurance
• has the same purpose as previously stated in the temporary residence permit

2. The permanent residence/stay permit:

The permanent residence permit can be obtained only if foreign citizens have been granted a temporary residence permit and meet these conditions:

• Proof of continuous and legal stay of at least 5 years on national territory with a maximum absence of 6 consecutive months
• Possession of national health insurance
• Adequate means of subsistence, at least the minimum income level guaranteed in Romania
• Demonstration of satisfactory knowledge of the Romanian language
• No threat to national security

Additionally, you can acquire a permanent residence permit even if you do not meet the above conditions if:

• You are of Romanian origin or were born in Romania and your stay is in the interest of the Romanian state
• You have invested 1.000.000 euros or created 100 full-time jobs
• Blue Card owners can receive benefits under specific conditions.

Internally, after registering the file, you might undergo an interview to assess your proficiency in the Romanian language. The processing time for permanent residence permits is a maximum of 6 months, with the possibility of a 90-day extension. In case of approval, the permanent residence permit will be issued for a 5-year period, with the potential for extension.

Foreign citizens granted a long-term residence permit must adhere to Romanian laws and enjoy the same rights as Romanian citizens, including the right to work and study, validation of their studies and diplomas, and social security benefits. Upon receiving the permanent residence permit, foreign citizens will be assigned a CNP (personal identification number), which will remain unchanged, regardless of their entries or time spent in Romania until obtaining Romanian citizenship. This 13-digit number will be included in all temporary residence and other relevant documents.

For further details, please visit the official website of the General Inspectorate for Immigrations, Citizens NON-UE section.