Legal and Immigration Support for U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders in Romania

1. What are the legal rights and obligations of US citizens and green card holders while living in Romania?

US citizens and green card holders must comply with the laws of Romania when living in the country. This includes obtaining a valid visa, registering with the local authorities, and paying necessary taxes in accordance with applicable laws. Additionally, US citizens and green card holders have the same rights as Romanian citizens, including the right to vote, the right to own property, and the right to travel within Romania. They also have the right to receive protection from the Romanian government and to access public services, such as health care and education.

2. Are there any immigration benefits for US citizens and green card holders in Romania?

Yes, US citizens and green card holders may be eligible for certain immigration benefits in Romania. For example, they may be eligible for a long-term residency permit, which can allow them to stay in Romania for an extended period of time. Additionally, US citizens and green card holders may be eligible for a work visa, which would allow them to work in Romania.

3. Are US citizens and green card holders allowed to work in Romania?

Yes. US citizens and green card holders may work in Romania, although they will need a work permit to do so. This permit is typically provided by the employer and must be obtained prior to beginning employment. The Romanian government has a process in place for granting such work permits and other documentation that may be required for foreigners intending to work in the country.

4. Is there a specific quota for US citizens and green card holders to obtain a work visa in Romania?

Yes. US citizens and green card holders are eligible to apply for a work visa in Romania if they meet the criteria of the Romanian Law no. 229/2011. The criteria includes a minimum of three years of professional experience, a minimum of two years of uninterrupted residence in Romania, a valid residence permit, and a valid passport. In addition, the applicant must be sponsored by a Romanian employer or organization and must have a valid contract with the employer or organization. The quota for US citizens and green card holders to obtain a work visa in Romania is determined by the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

5. Are US citizens and green card holders eligible for free movement within Romania?

US citizens and green card holders are eligible for visa-free travel to Romania for up to 90 days. They are not eligible for free movement within Romania.

6. Is there a specific period of time that US citizens and green card holders can stay in Romania?

Yes, US citizens and green card holders may stay in Romania up to 90 days within a 6-month period without needing a visa. After 90 days, a long-term visa is needed for stays longer than those 90 days.

7. Can US citizens and green card holders apply for permanent residency in Romania?

Yes, US citizens and green card holders are eligible to apply for permanent residency in Romania. However, the process may be complex and there are certain restrictions that may apply.

8. What are the requirements for US citizens and green card holders to obtain permanent residency in Romania?

US citizens and green card holders must obtain a residence permit from the Romanian Office for Immigration in order to stay in Romania for more than 90 days. This permit must be renewed every year and can be done through a local government office. In order to obtain permanent residency, US citizens and green card holders must first submit an application for temporary residency. In order to be approved, applicants must prove that they have sufficient financial means to support themselves, have health insurance, and have completed all required paperwork. Additionally, applicants must provide proof of a valid passport and valid visa or green card. After a successful application for temporary residency, applicants must wait five years for permanent residency status.

9. Does Romania have any special programs that benefit US citizens and green card holders?

Yes, Romania does have special programs that benefit US citizens and green card holders. The Romania-US Passport Program allows eligible US citizens and green card holders to apply for Romanian passports, while the Romania-US Dual Citizen Program allows eligible individuals to obtain Romanian citizenship. Additionally, Romania recently announced the launch of the Romania-US Entrepreneur Residency Program, which allows qualified US citizens and green card holders to obtain residence permits in Romania for the purpose of starting businesses there.

10. Are there any incentives for US citizens and green card holders to invest in Romania businesses or real estate?

Yes, there are some incentives for US citizens and green card holders to invest in Romania businesses or real estate. The Romanian government has established a series of programs and schemes aimed at attracting foreign investment. These include tax incentives, grants, and other forms of financial support to qualified investors. Some of the most popular incentive programs include the Investment Promotion Program (IPP), the Regional Development Program (RDP), and the Large Investment Program (LIP). Additionally, the Romanian government has offered tax incentives for foreign investments in areas such as tourism, agriculture, and research and development.

11. Is it necessary for US citizens and green card holders to obtain a residence permit in Romania?

Yes, US citizens and green card holders need to obtain a residence permit in Romania. This will allow them to stay in the country for more than 90 days. Residence permits are issued by the Romanian police and are typically valid for one year.

12. Are US citizens and green card holders required to pay taxes on income earned from Romania?

Yes, US citizens and green card holders are required to pay taxes on income earned from Romania. The amount of tax owed on income earned in Romania will depend on the individual’s country of residence and any applicable tax treaties between the two countries.

13. Are there any restrictions on ownership of property in Romania for US citizens and green card holders?

No, US citizens and green card holders are free to buy and own property in Romania without any legal restrictions.

14. What type of visas do US citizens and green card holders need to enter Romania?

US citizens and green card holders do not need a visa to enter Romania for a stay of up to 90 days in any 180 day period.

15. Is there a dedicated immigration office or agency that deals with legal matters related to US citizens and green card holders in Romania?

Yes, the United States Embassy in Bucharest, Romania has a dedicated office for immigration matters related to US citizens and green card holders. The Office of American Citizens Services and Crisis Management handles all immigration matters for US citizens and green card holders.

16. Does the government of Romania provide any support services for US citizens and green card holders such as legal aid or translation services?

The Romanian government does not provide any direct assistance in the form of legal aid or translation services for US citizens and green card holders. However, there are NGOs and other organizations that may be able to provide assistance to US citizens and green card holders living in Romania. Additionally, the US Embassy in Romania provides a list of English-speaking lawyers and other resources that may be able to assist with translation and other services.

17. What is the process for applying for citizenship in Romania for US Citizens and Green Card Holders?

US Citizens and Green Card Holders wishing to become citizens of Romania must first reside in Romania for a minimum of 8 years. During this period, applicants must hold a valid residence permit and may need to prove that they have sufficient income to support themselves and their family members.

Applicants must submit an application, with relevant supporting documents, to the local Romanian Immigration Office. Applicants may also need to attend an interview with a Romanian Immigration Official. This will be used to assess whether the applicant meets the criteria for citizenship.

Once the application is approved, the applicant must take an oath of allegiance at the Romanian Embassy or Consulate in the US, or at a local Romanian court. After taking the oath of allegiance, they will receive their Romanian passport and become a citizen of Romania.

18. Are there any educational opportunities available for the children of US Citizens and Green Card Holders living in Romania?

Yes. According to the U.S. Embassy & Consulate in Romania, there are several options for U.S. citizens and green card holders living in Romania. These options include enrolling in international schools, local public schools, or home schooling. Additionally, there are a few private American schools, such as the American International School of Bucharest and the American International School of Cluj-Napoca. Local universities also accept American students and may offer special educational programs to U.S. citizens and green card holders.

19. What is the process for registering a business in Romania as a US Citizen or Green Card Holder?

The process for registering a business in Romania as a US Citizen or Green Card Holder is similar to the process for other foreign nationals. The first step is to acquire a residency permit, which can be done through either an extended visa or a temporary residence permit. Once the residency permit has been acquired, the business must be registered with the National Trade Register Office. This includes submitting a set of documents and a business plan, which will be reviewed by the office. Once the registration is approved, the business must register with the local tax administration and obtain a valid license from the local authorities. Finally, the company must register its employees with the relevant government agencies and open a bank account.

20. Are there any special requirements or restrictions on travel outside of Romania for US Citizens or Green Card Holders living in Romania?

Yes. US citizens and green card holders living in Romania must comply with the same travel restrictions as any other US citizen or green card holder. This includes obtaining a valid passport with valid visas for any countries they wish to visit, as well as adhering to any country-specific travel restrictions or requirements.