Do You Want to Hire Workers from Asia in Romania? Here’s What You Need to Know About Legal Requirements

Introduction

Due to the current shortage of skilled labor, more and more companies in Romania are turning to workers from outside the European Union, particularly from Asia. While this process brings clear benefits, it also comes with strict legal requirements set by the Romanian authorities.

This article clearly outlines the main conditions you must meet in order to obtain the employment authorization (aviz de angajare) and legally recruit Asian workers in Romania, under Government Ordinance no. 25/2014.

Key Conditions for Legally Hiring Workers from Asia

1. The job position must match your company’s activity

(Art. 4 para. (2) letter a) and a¹) of O.G. no. 25/2014)

The employer must prove that the position offered to the foreign worker is compatible with the company’s registered and actual field of activity. This prevents artificial hiring practices unrelated to the firm’s operations.

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2. The company’s main activity cannot be facilitating foreign entry

(Art. 4 para. (2) letter a¹) of O.G. no. 25/2014)

The General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) checks whether the company genuinely operates in Romania and does not exist solely as a front to obtain work permits or residence rights for foreigners.

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3. No outstanding debts to the state budget

(Art. 4 para. (2) letter b) of O.G. no. 25/2014)

The company must have all taxes and contributions paid in full. Financial stability and fiscal compliance are mandatory for obtaining the work authorization.

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4. No criminal convictions for serious offenses

(Art. 4 para. (2) letter c) of O.G. no. 25/2014)

The employer must not have final convictions for labor law violations or intentional crimes against individuals. This ensures safe and legal working conditions for foreign employees.

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5. No sanctions for illegal employment of foreign workers

(Art. 4 para. (2) letter d) of O.G. no. 25/2014)

The company must not have been penalized for undeclared work or illegal hiring of foreigners within the last 6 months prior to applying for the work authorization.

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6. The annual quota of foreign workers has not been reached

(Art. 4 para. (2) letter e) of O.G. no. 25/2014)

Every year, the Romanian Government sets a maximum quota for newly admitted foreign workers. For 2025, according to Government Decision no. 1,213/2024, the quota is 100,000 foreign workers. Once this quota is filled, no new work permits can be issued, even if all other conditions are met.

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7. The employer must have at least 1 year of effective activity in the relevant field

(Art. 7 para. (2) letter d) of O.G. no. 25/2014)

It is not enough to simply have an authorized business code (CAEN). The company must demonstrate real commercial activity in the field for at least 12 months prior to requesting the work authorization.

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Conclusion

Complying with these legal requirements is not just bureaucracy—it is a guarantee of fairness, sustainability, and responsibility toward both foreign workers and Romanian authorities.

With a professional approach and specialized support, hiring foreign workers can become not only possible but also efficient and sustainable for your business.

Make sure you meet the conditions above, stay well informed, and work with professionals to handle the legal steps for obtaining work permits and recruiting staff from abroad.

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The Muncitorești Team is here to provide expert guidance and tailored support, ensuring that your recruitment process is fully compliant with legal requirements and optimized for your business success.