How a foreigner can obtain romanian citizenship

Complete guide to obtaining romanian citizenship – procedures, documents, and benefits

Romanian citizenship offers multiple advantages: the right to live and work in Romania, as well as free movement and settlement across the European Union. For this reason, an increasing number of foreigners choose to apply for Romanian citizenship each year.

The process can be complex and time-consuming, but with the right information and professional legal support, obtaining citizenship becomes much simpler.

Ways a foreigner can obtain romanian citizenship

According to current legislation, there are several legal paths to obtaining citizenship:

1. Marriage – if you are legally married to a Romanian citizen, you can apply after 5 years of residence in Romania (instead of 8 years).

2. Adoption – minors adopted by Romanian citizens can acquire citizenship.

3. Repatriation (reacquisition of citizenship) – individuals originally from Romania or their descendants (children, grandchildren) can obtain citizenship relatively quickly.

4. Citizenship through investment – under certain conditions, the process can be accelerated through significant economic contributions.

5. Long-term residence – foreigners who have legally lived in Romania for at least 8 years and know the Romanian language can apply for citizenship.

Documents required for the citizenship application

The required documents may vary depending on personal circumstances and the legal basis of the application, but generally include:

• Copy of passport

• Marriage certificate (if applicable)

• Copy of work book or proof of professional activity

• Copy of military identity card (if relevant)

• Criminal record certificates from Romania and the country of origin

• Civil status documents (originals and copies)

The full list should be checked with the institution where the application is submitted, as it may vary depending on the situation.

Procedure for reacquiring romanian citizenship (for individuals with romanian origins)

Individuals who lived in Bessarabia (today’s Republic of Moldova) or northern Bukovina (today part of Ukraine) before 1940, as well as their descendants, can reacquire Romanian citizenship in a shorter timeframe.

The main steps are:

1. Submission of the citizenship application at the Romanian embassy or consulate.

2. Presentation of documents proving Romanian roots (birth and marriage certificates of parents/grandparents).

3. Review of the application and approval.

4. Taking the oath of allegiance to Romania.

After this final step, the applicant officially becomes a Romanian citizen.

How much does it cost to obtain romanian citizenship?

There is no fixed cost, as it depends on several factors:

• Official fees and charges

• Costs for translation and legalization of documents

• Number of trips required to Romania

• Possible fees charged by specialized firms or lawyers

Therefore, costs are individual for each person or family.

Obtaining Romanian citizenship as a foreigner can be a lengthy process with complex bureaucratic requirements. However, for those with Romanian roots or who meet the legal conditions, the process is achievable, and the benefits of citizenship are significant.

To navigate this process more easily and avoid administrative errors, it is recommended to seek specialized legal assistance.

Contact Avocat Deleanu Ruslan

Phone: +40 722 172 929
Email: office@avocatdeleanu.ro