How to Move to Romania as a Tech Worker
A comprehensive guide for digital nomads looking to move to Romania
Romania, a beautiful nation situated in Eastern Europe, has garnered notable attention in the past few years due to its flourishing technology sector. Thanks to its proficient workforce, reasonable living expenses, and expanding startup environment, Romania has emerged as a highly desired location for both technology professionals and digital nomads. This article delves into the intriguing realm of Romania's technology industry, shedding light on some of the top cities for individuals aspiring to pursue career opportunities in this dynamic field.
Romania's Tech Industry
The tech industry in Romania has undergone significant expansion, establishing the country as the "Silicon Valley of Eastern Europe." Recognized for its skilled IT specialists and engineers, Romania has emerged as a prominent center for outsourcing and software development. The nation's tech sector spans various domains, such as software development, cybersecurity, data analytics, and artificial intelligence.
Cities in Romania for Digital Nomads
Bucharest: The Capital of Tech
Bucharest, Romania's capital city, takes the lead in the nation's tech industry. With a dynamic startup culture and a thriving digital ecosystem, Bucharest provides abundant job opportunities for tech professionals. Hosting numerous multinational tech companies and innovative startups, the city offers an environment conducive to continuous learning and professional growth.
Furthermore, Bucharest organizes various tech events, conferences, and meetups, creating extensive networking opportunities for industry professionals. The city's vibrant nightlife and rich cultural scene enhance its appeal, attracting young talent globally.
Cluj-Napoca: The Silicon Valley of Romania
Situated in Transylvania, Cluj-Napoca has risen as a key tech hub in Romania, often dubbed the "Silicon Valley of Romania." The city provides a flourishing startup ecosystem and a supportive community for tech enthusiasts. Hosting numerous tech events, hackathons, and innovation centers, Cluj-Napoca fosters a collaborative environment for ongoing learning and innovation.
With its low living costs and high quality of life, Cluj-Napoca is an attractive destination for tech professionals. Affordable housing, excellent healthcare, and a vibrant cultural scene contribute to the city's appeal. Additionally, it boasts a robust educational infrastructure, with several universities offering top-notch computer science and engineering programs.
Timisoara: A Rising Star in Tech
Located in western Romania, Timisoara is swiftly gaining recognition as an emerging tech hotspot. Its proximity to Western Europe, combined with a skilled workforce, has drawn multinational tech companies and startups seeking a conducive business environment. Timisoara's focus on innovation and research has led to the establishment of technology parks and incubators, nurturing the local tech ecosystem's growth.
With beautiful architecture, a lively city center, and a rich cultural heritage, Timisoara ensures a high quality of life for tech professionals. The city's friendly community and supportive atmosphere make it an ideal destination for those aiming for work-life balance and career opportunities in the tech industry.
Benefits of Romania Digital Nomad Visa
The Romania Digital Nomad Visa is designed for you if you work remotely using information technology for any company registered outside Romania. It lasts for 90 days, during which you will apply for a residence permit to stay longer. To qualify for this visa, you must:
Be employed in a company registered outside Romania for a remote work position or have a business registered by you outside Romania;
You have an income equivalent to at least three times Romania’s gross average salary, starting from 6 months before the visa application, and covering the entire period of your stay in Romania.
The Digital Nomad Visa, which falls under the Long stay Visa for Other Purposes (marked D/AS), has the following benefits:
Easy to apply
Tax-Free
Developed Internet
Cheap Coworking spaces
Low cost of living
Visa Application Guide
Gather all relevant Documents: Ensure all documents are complete, as an absent document could flaw your application. They include:
Proof of remote work (Employment contract with foreign company or copies of business registration documents)
Proof of accommodation
Travel Medical Insurance for the duration of your stay. (at least 30,000 EUR)
At most 10 years old valid international passport that will last till at least 3 months beyond the period of your stay.
Two recent 3cm by 4cm passport photographs.
Criminal record from your country of residence or origin.
An official document that indicates that the company you are with is functioning up till date.
Letter of intent, stating in details the purpose of your stay in Romania.
Tax Certificate
Valid travel ticket to Romania
Proof of income (bank statements, salary agreements etc.)
Any other documents asked for by the consular staff.
Apply Online: Romanian Visa application is don online using the eVisa application portal. Accept the terms of use, click Next and create an account by supplying an email address and a secure password. With this account, you can always pause your application and continue from where you left off. Follow the steps and attach the necessary documents within 30 days of opening the account.
Review and validate your application: Ensure that all the information provided in your application is correct and complete, then send it to the embassy or consulate closest to you. A consular staff will review your application, and either validate it or demand for additional documents. If they demand for additional documents, attach them and resend until your application is marked as valid.
Book an appointment: You book an appointment for an interview by selecting an available time slot.
Lodge your application in person: To lodge your application, go to the consulate on the day of appointment, sign your application form and pay the visa fee (120EUR paid in EUR, USD or your country’s currency depending on the directive of the consulate).
Track your application status: You track your application progress by logging in to your account, or by the eVisa mails sent to your email address. Once your visa is approved, you can then go to the consulate to pick your passport with the affixed visa.
Romania's tech industry is thriving, offering a multitude of opportunities for professionals seeking to make their mark in the field. With cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Timisoara leading the way, Romania provides an ideal environment for tech enthusiasts to thrive. Whether you're looking to work for multinational tech giants, join a vibrant startup scene, or simply enjoy a high quality of life, Romania's tech industry and its vibrant cities are worth exploring.
So, why not consider Romania as your next tech destination? The country's booming tech industry, affordable living costs, and welcoming communities make it an enticing choice for tech professionals and digital nomads looking for exciting opportunities and a high quality of life.
