Two Paths to Working in the EU
Non-EU workers have two main legal routes to employment in Romania: the National Work Permit and the EU Blue Card. Each has distinct eligibility criteria and benefits.
National Work Permit
Best for: Skilled and unskilled workers in trades, construction, manufacturing and services.
- No minimum salary requirement (must meet Romanian minimum wage)
- Valid for 1 year, renewable
- Tied to a specific employer
- Processing time: 30–45 days
- Covers all occupations
EU Blue Card
Best for: Highly qualified professionals (engineers, IT, medical) with university degrees.
- Requires a salary at least 1.5× the national average (approx. €2,100/month in 2026)
- Requires a recognised higher education qualification
- Valid for 2–4 years
- Allows intra-EU mobility after 12 months
- Path to EU long-term residence
Which Should You Choose?
For most workers recruited through Romania Manpower — skilled tradespeople, construction workers, drivers and warehouse operatives — the National Work Permit is the appropriate and fastest route. The EU Blue Card is reserved for highly qualified professionals and requires both a university degree and a high-salary offer.