Post-Arrival Requirement

Romania Residence Permit & Student Status

How to get and renew your student residence permit in Romania. Apply at the General Inspectorate for Immigration at least 30 days before your 90-day visa ends. The permit lasts one academic year and you renew it each year.

Romania

ROMANIA RESIDENCE PERMIT

STUDENT PERMIT

Student ResidenceAuthorization

ACTIVE

WORK PERMIT

Type: Student

ID#: RO-STU-0000000

Valid from: 01/10/2026

Expires: 30/09/2027

STUDENT RECORDACTIVE

ID: STUDENT-000000

Status: Student

Program: Master's Program in Computer Science

Institution: University of Bucharest

Maintaining valid student status requires proper documentation and compliance with Romanian immigration requirements.

What is Student Status Maintenance in Romania?

Romania manages international students' legal status through a comprehensive system of permits and documentation, primarily overseen by the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI). Your student status, evidenced by your residence permit, serves as your authorization to remain in the country and must be actively maintained throughout your academic program.

Status vs. Visa

Student Visa (D/SD)

Long-stay visa (Type D) for studies, issued by Romanian diplomatic missions abroad.
Primarily an entry document, allowing you to enter Romania.
Typically valid for 90 days, during which you must apply for your residence permit.

Student Residence Permit (Permis de Ședere)

Your legal authorization to stay, study, and reside in Romania.
Issued by the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) upon arrival.
Must be renewed annually or as per its validity period, throughout your program.

Romania Student Record System (IGI)

The General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) maintains detailed records of all international students. This system tracks your residence permit status, enrollment, and compliance with Romanian immigration requirements. Your university also maintains internal records that are cross-referenced with IGI.

Key Status Documents

Student Residence Permit (Permis de Ședere)

The official biometric card authorizing your stay and study in Romania.

Entry Stamp/Visa

Proof of legal entry into Romania, typically found in your passport.

Enrollment Certificate (Adeverință de Student)

Official confirmation of your current enrollment status from your university.

Proof of Financial Means

Bank statements or scholarship letters demonstrating sufficient funds for living expenses.

Status Violations Warning

Violating your student status in Romania can result in serious consequences including fines, refusal of permit renewal, deportation, future visa denials, and bars to re-entry into the Schengen Area. Always consult with your institution's international office and the IGI before making any changes to your study plan or personal circumstances.

Main Requirements for a Student Permit

Full-time Enrollment

Maintain minimum course load requirements as defined by your university and Romanian law (typically 30 ECTS per semester).

Satisfactory Academic Progress

Meet the academic performance standards set by your institution to remain enrolled and eligible for permit renewal.

Valid Residence Permit

Ensure your Permis de Ședere is always current. Apply for renewal at least 30 days before its expiry date at the local IGI office.

Address Updates

Tell the immigration office (IGI) within 10 days of moving.

Work Authorization Compliance

You may work up to 6 hours a day without a separate work permit. Rules can change, so ask the immigration office (IGI) or your international office first. Working without permission can bring fines and problems with future visas.

Financial Sufficiency

Maintain sufficient financial means to cover living expenses for the duration of your stay, as required by IGI.

Rules can change. Your university's international office and the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) can tell you the current list of papers.

Romania Student Status Types & Applications

Romania offers several pathways for maintaining and extending your student status. Understanding the different application types and their requirements is crucial for planning your academic and career journey.

Key Application Timeframes

Application Preparation

2-4 weeks

Application Submission (IGI)

1-2 days

Document Verification & Interview

2-6 weeks

Decision & Permit Issuance

1-3 weeks

Application Types & Procedures

Work Permit

Post-Completion Work Authorization (Permis de ședere în scop de muncă)

Work authorization after completing your studies in Romania, typically requiring a job offer and conversion of your student residence permit.

Apply before your student permit ends.

Key Requirements:

Completed degree program from an accredited Romanian institution.
Maintained valid student residence permit throughout studies.
Valid employment contract or firm job offer from a Romanian employer.
Proof of sufficient financial means.
Clean criminal record.
Medical certificate.

Extension

Student Residence Permit Extension (Prelungirea dreptului de ședere pentru studii)

Extend your current student residence permit for additional study in Romania (e.g., continuing a program, pursuing a higher degree).

Apply at least 30 days before your current residence permit expires.

Key Requirements:

Proof of enrollment for the next academic year/semester (e.g., university certificate).
Proof of academic progress (e.g., transcript, confirmation from university).
Proof of sufficient financial means (minimum national gross average salary per month for the duration of stay).
Proof of accommodation in Romania (e.g., rental contract, dormitory confirmation).
Valid health insurance.
Original and copy of current residence permit and passport.

Transfer

Change of Study Program/Institution (Schimbarea programului/instituției de învățământ)

Transfer to a new institution or study program in Romania while maintaining your student status.

Tell the immigration office (IGI) within 10 days.

Key Requirements:

Acceptance letter from the new institution or confirmation of transfer to a new program.
Official document from the previous institution confirming withdrawal or transfer.
Proof of sufficient financial means.
Proof of accommodation.
Valid health insurance.
Original and copy of current residence permit and passport.
Justification for the change (if significant).

Important Restrictions: You may work up to 6 hours a day without a separate work permit. Rules can change, so ask the immigration office (IGI) or your international office first. Working without permission can bring fines and problems with future visas.

Typical Application Timeline for Residence Permit Extension/Change

Application Preparation

Gather required documents, including university certificates, financial proof, accommodation, and health insurance.

Duration: 2-4 weeks

Application Submission (IGI)

Submit complete application to the local General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) office.

Duration: 1-2 days

Document Verification & Interview

IGI reviews documents, may request additional information or an interview.

Duration: 2-6 weeks

Decision & Permit Issuance

Final decision issued and new residence permit card is processed and issued.

Duration: 1-3 weeks

Processing times vary based on application type, the specific IGI office, and current workload. It is highly recommended to submit applications well in advance of deadlines (at least 30 days before expiry) and maintain your current status while applications are pending. Always check the official IGI website (igi.mai.gov.ro) for the most up-to-date requirements and forms.

Romania Residence Permit Application Process Steps

The application process for residence permits and status changes in Romania involves several key steps managed by the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI). Understanding each stage helps ensure your application is complete and processed efficiently.

Main Application Process for Residence Permits (General)

Preparation

Prepare Application Dossier

Gather all required documents as per IGI guidelines for your specific permit type (e.g., student, work, family reunification).

This includes passport, visa (if applicable), proof of financial means, accommodation, health insurance, university enrollment/work contract, criminal record certificate, and any specific forms. Ensure all foreign documents are apostilled/legalized and officially translated into Romanian.

Submission

Schedule Appointment & Submit Application

Book an appointment online via the IGI portal (portaligi.mai.gov.ro) or by phone, then submit your complete application dossier in person at the local IGI office.

Applications must be submitted before your current visa/residence permit expires. Pay the state fees (taxa consulară) and administrative fees (taxa de procesare) at CEC Bank or through online payment systems. Keep copies of all submitted documents and payment receipts.

Biometrics

Biometric Data Collection

Attend the biometric data collection appointment at the IGI office, usually scheduled during or shortly after application submission.

Your fingerprints and a digital photo will be taken for your residence permit card. Bring required identification (passport, current permit) and the application registration number.

Verification

Interview/Additional Document Request (if required)

The IGI may request an interview or additional supporting documents to clarify information or verify details.

Respond promptly to any requests from IGI. Prepare thoroughly for any interview by reviewing your application and supporting documents. Bring originals of all documents if requested.

Completion

Decision & Collection of Residence Permit

Receive notification of the decision. If approved, collect your new residence permit card from the IGI office.

After approval, IGI tells you when to collect your permit card. Check that every detail on the card is right.

Typical Status Extension Process (e.g., Student Permit Extension)

Status & Document Review

Review your current residence permit expiry date and gather all required documents for extension (e.g., new enrollment, updated financial proof, accommodation).

Online Appointment & Fee Payment

Schedule an appointment online via the IGI portal and pay the necessary state and administrative fees.

In-Person Submission & Biometrics

Submit the complete dossier at the IGI office and provide biometric data (fingerprints, photo).

Permit Collection

Collect your new extended residence permit card once approved and processed.

Common Change of Status Options in Romania

From Status	To Status	Requirements	Processing Time	Notes
Student (Scop Studii)	Work (Scop Muncă)	Completed studies in Romania, valid job offer/employment contract from a Romanian employer, employer obtains work authorization (aviz de muncă) from IGI/AJOFM, proof of sufficient financial means, medical certificate, clean criminal record.	30-90 days (for work authorization + residence permit)	Application for work authorization must be initiated by the employer. The student must apply for a change of purpose of stay (schimbare scop ședere) after work authorization is granted. Must apply before student permit expires.
Student (Scop Studii)	Family Reunification (Întregirea Familiei)	Marriage to a Romanian citizen or a foreign resident with a long-term residence right in Romania, proof of relationship (marriage certificate), proof of accommodation, financial means of the sponsor, health insurance, clean criminal record.	60-120 days	The Romanian citizen/long-term resident spouse initiates the family reunification procedure. The student then applies for a residence permit for family reunification.
Student (Scop Studii)	Long-Term Residence (Drept de ședere pe termen lung)	Generally, 5 consecutive years of legal and continuous stay in Romania (student period counts partially, typically half), proof of stable and regular income, adequate accommodation, health insurance, Romanian language knowledge (A2 level), clean criminal record.	60-120 days	Student residence permit period counts as half towards the 5-year requirement for long-term residence. Specific conditions apply for EU Blue Card holders or researchers. This is a complex application.

Professional Guidance Recommended: Immigration applications in Romania can be complex, and regulations are subject to change. Mistakes or incomplete applications can lead to delays or rejection. It is highly recommended to consult with your university's international relations office, a qualified Romanian immigration lawyer, or an authorized immigration consultant for personalized guidance on your specific situation, especially for complex cases like change of status or long-term residence.

Processing Times: Current processing times for residence permits in Romania vary significantly based on the type of application, the specific General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) office, and the current workload. While standard processing is often stated as 30 days, it can extend to 45-90 days or more, especially during peak periods. Always check the official IGI website (igi.mai.gov.ro) or contact your local IGI office for the most current processing time estimates and plan your application submission accordingly, well in advance of any expiry dates.

Required Documents for Romania

The specific documents required for your application depend on your current status and the type of application you're submitting. Ensure all documents are current, properly translated, and authenticated as required. All foreign-language documents must be translated into Romanian by an authorized translator and legalized/apostilled where necessary.

General

General Residence Permit Documents (Applicable to most categories)

Application Form (Formular de cerere)

Completed and signed application form for the specific type of residence permit (e.g., long-stay visa extension, family reunification, work, study). Available on the IGI website.

Valid Passport

Original passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the requested permit duration, plus copies of all relevant pages (identity, visa, entry stamps).

Long-Stay Visa (D-Type Visa)

Copy of the long-stay visa (D/SD, D/AS, D/TR, D/VF, D/DT, D/AR, D/CS, D/CR, D/RL, D/AM, D/CF) based on which you entered Romania, if applicable.

Proof of Accommodation

Rental agreement (contract de închiriere) registered with ANAF, property deed (act de proprietate), or declaration from the host (declarație de găzduire) legalized by a notary public.

Proof of Financial Means

Bank statements, scholarship certificate, employment contract, or other documents proving sufficient funds for living in Romania. The amount required varies by permit type (e.g., minimum wage for work, average gross salary for family reunification, minimum wage for students).

Medical Certificate

Medical certificate issued by a Romanian public or private medical institution, stating that the applicant does not suffer from diseases that could endanger public health.

Health Insurance

Proof of valid health insurance covering the entire period of stay in Romania. This can be a Romanian health insurance policy or an international one recognized in Romania.

Criminal Record Certificate (Cazier Judiciar)

Issued by Romanian authorities (if you've been in Romania for more than 6 months) or from your country of origin/residence, apostilled/legalized and translated. Required for initial applications and sometimes for extensions.

Two Recent Passport-Sized Photos

Color photos, 3x4 cm, on a white background.

Proof of Fee Payment

Receipt for the state fee (taxa consulară) and administrative fee (tarif administrativ) paid at CEC Bank or through online payment systems.

Student

Specific Documents for Student Status

Acceptance Letter (Scrisoare de acceptare la studii)

Original letter from the Ministry of Education (for non-EU/EEA students) or the university confirming acceptance for studies.

Proof of Enrollment (Adeverință de student)

Official certificate from the university confirming your enrollment for the current academic year, specifying the study program, year, and duration.

Proof of Tuition Fee Payment

Receipt or bank statement proving payment of tuition fees for at least one academic year or semester, as per university requirements.

Academic Transcripts/Diplomas (for extension/change of level)

Previous academic records if applying for an extension or changing study level (e.g., Bachelor to Master).

Work

Specific Documents for Work Permit/Employment

Work Permit (Aviz de muncă)

Original work permit issued by the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) or the Ministry of Labor, obtained by the employer.

Employment Contract (Contract Individual de Muncă)

Copy of the individual employment contract registered with the General Register of Employees (REVISAL).

Company Registration Documents

Copies of the employer's company registration certificate (CUI), articles of incorporation, and proof of good standing.

Job Description and Qualifications

Detailed job description and proof of qualifications (diplomas, professional certificates) relevant to the position.

Change of Status Documentation (Example: Student to Work)

General Documents

Valid passport and current residence permit (if applicable)
Proof of accommodation
Medical certificate
Health insurance proof
Criminal record certificate (Romanian and/or foreign)
Two passport-sized photos
Proof of fee payment

Specific Documents for New Status (e.g., Work)

Work Permit (Aviz de muncă) obtained by the employer
Employment Contract (Contract Individual de Muncă)
Company registration documents of the employer
Proof of professional qualifications (diplomas, experience letters)
Proof of financial means (e.g., employment contract showing salary)

Documents for Previous Status (e.g., Student)

Proof of completion of studies (diploma, graduation certificate) or withdrawal from studies
Academic transcripts

Document Preparation Tips: Ensure all documents are recent (typically within 6 months, unless they are permanent documents like diplomas), properly translated into Romanian by an authorized translator, and legalized or apostilled as required by international conventions (e.g., Hague Apostille Convention). Make multiple copies of all documents before submission. Always check the latest requirements on the official IGI website (Inspectoratul General pentru Imigrări) as regulations can change.

Keep Copies: Always keep certified copies of all submitted documents for your records. Original documents may be requested for verification but will typically be returned. You will need copies for other purposes during the application process and for future applications.

Romania Processing Timeline & Procedures

Processing times for residence permits and status applications in Romania vary based on several factors, including the type of permit, the completeness of the application, and the workload of the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) offices. Understanding the typical timeline helps you plan accordingly and avoid status gaps.

Typical Processing Timeline for Residence Permits (Initial & Extension)

Application Preparation & Submission (Online/In-person)

1-3 weeks

Gather all required documents, ensure translations and legalizations are complete. Submit the application online via the IGI portal (portaligi.mai.gov.ro) or in person at the local IGI office.

Key Activities:

Check the specific document list for your permit type on the IGI website.
Obtain Romanian translations and necessary apostilles/legalizations.
Pay state fees at CEC Bank or online.
Upload documents to the IGI portal or prepare physical copies.
Schedule an appointment for submission/biometrics (if required) via the portal.

Initial Verification & Biometrics Appointment

1-4 weeks (after submission)

After online submission, IGI reviews documents. If complete, an appointment for biometrics (fingerprints, photo) and original document verification is scheduled. If incomplete, you will be notified to provide additional documents.

Key Activities:

IGI checks the completeness of the online application.
You will receive an email notification for the biometrics appointment date and time.
Attend the appointment with all original documents for verification.
Any missing or incorrect documents will be requested, potentially delaying the process.

Application Processing & Verification

30-90 days (from biometrics appointment)

The IGI conducts thorough checks, including background checks, verification of provided information (e.g., employment, student status, financial means), and consultations with other relevant authorities.

Key Activities:

Internal checks with police, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Labor, etc.
Further document requests (Solicitare de documente suplimentare) may occur if discrepancies or missing information are found.
For complex cases (e.g., family reunification, highly skilled workers), additional interviews or checks might be conducted.

Decision & Issuance of Residence Permit Card

1-2 weeks (after approval)

Once the application is approved, the residence permit card is printed. You will be notified to collect it.

Key Activities:

You will receive an SMS or email notification when your permit is ready for collection.
Collect the permit card from the IGI office where you submitted your application.
The permit card is a biometric card and serves as your official identification in Romania.

Factors Affecting Processing Time

Type of Residence Permit

High

Student permits are generally faster than work permits or family reunification. Initial applications often take longer than extensions.

Completeness and Accuracy of Documents

High

Any missing documents, incorrect translations, or errors will lead to delays and requests for additional information (Solicitare de documente suplimentare).

Workload of IGI Office

Medium

Processing times can vary significantly between different IGI regional offices and during peak seasons (e.g., beginning of academic year).

Complexity of the Case

Medium

Cases requiring extensive background checks, inter-agency consultations, or involving complex legal situations may take longer.

Response Time to Additional Requests

High

Delays in providing requested additional documents will directly extend the processing time.

Typical Processing Times (estimates)

Ask IGI; plan for several weeks

Fastest Cases

Ask IGI; apply at least 30 days before your visa or permit ends

Typical Cases

90-120+ days (for initial family reunification, highly skilled worker, or complex cases, especially if additional documents are requested)

Complex Cases

Maintain Current Status: It is crucial to apply for your residence permit extension at least 30 days before your current visa or residence permit expires. If you apply within this timeframe, your stay in Romania is considered legal until a decision is made on your application, even if your previous permit expires. Applying after this period can lead to fines and potential deportation.

Check Current Processing Times: Processing times can fluctuate. Always check the official website of the General Inspectorate for Immigration (Inspectoratul General pentru Imigrări - IGI) at portaligi.mai.gov.ro for the most current information, specific document lists, and processing time estimates for your particular application type and the IGI office in your county.

Romania Status Maintenance Tips

Maintaining your legal status in Romania requires ongoing attention to various requirements and deadlines. Following these best practices helps ensure continuous compliance with immigration regulations.

Essential Maintenance Practices

Keep Documents Current

Ensure all permits, visas, and identification documents remain valid and up-to-date

Set calendar reminders for renewal dates and begin renewal processes at least 30-60 days before expiration at the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI).

Maintain Academic Standing (Students)

Keep satisfactory academic progress and full-time enrollment status as per university regulations

Monitor GPA requirements and credit hour minimums for your program. Failure to do so can lead to revocation of your student residence permit.

Update Address Promptly

Tell the immigration office (IGI) within 10 days of moving

This is a legal requirement in Romania. Failure to update can lead to fines or issues with permit renewal.

Track Important Dates

Monitor visa expiration dates, residence permit renewal deadlines, and academic milestones

Use digital calendars with alerts for all critical immigration dates, especially for your 'Permis de ședere' (residence permit).

Understand Work Authorization

Know your work rights and limitations under your current status in Romania

Student residence permits typically allow part-time work (up to 6 hours a day) during the academic year. You do not need a separate work permit for this. Unauthorized work can lead to deportation.

Stay in Touch with University International Office

Maintain regular contact with your university's international student office or designated advisor

They are your primary resource for guidance on status maintenance, academic requirements, and local regulations.

Travel Carefully

Understand travel restrictions and re-entry requirements, especially for Schengen Area travel

Ensure your Romanian residence permit is valid for re-entry. If you plan to travel outside Romania and the Schengen area, check visa requirements for your destination and ensure your permit covers your return.

Monitor Policy Changes

Stay informed about changes to Romanian immigration policies and procedures, especially regarding EU accession and Schengen Area rules

Subscribe to official IGI updates and institutional newsletters. Romania's recent partial entry into Schengen (air/sea borders) may bring further changes.

Plan for Status Transitions

Prepare early for status changes (e.g., student to work permit) or extensions

Begin planning at least 6 months before your current 'Permis de ședere' expires, as processing times can vary.

Technology Tools for Status Management

Mobile Apps

e-Permis (if available, for digital permit access)
University international student app (if provided)
Document scanner and storage app (e.g., Adobe Scan, Google Drive)
Translation apps (e.g., Google Translate for Romanian)

Online Resources

General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) official website (igi.mai.gov.ro)
University's international student portal
Online renewal and application systems (where available through IGI)
Romanian government official gazette (Monitorul Oficial) for legal updates

Common Status Maintenance Mistakes in Romania

Letting the 'Permis de ședere' expire without renewal application

Not telling IGI within 10 days of moving

Working without proper authorization or exceeding allowed hours for students

Not maintaining full-time enrollment or academic progress as a student

Missing important renewal deadlines for the residence permit

Traveling outside Romania/Schengen without proper re-entry documents or a valid permit

Status Violation Warning: Violating your immigration status in Romania can result in fines, deportation, visa/permit cancellation, and bars to future entry into Romania and potentially the Schengen Area. If you're unsure about any requirement, consult with your university's international student office or a Romanian immigration attorney immediately.

Proactive Status Planning

The key to successful status maintenance in Romania is proactive planning. Create a personal immigration calendar with all important dates and set up automatic reminders.

Set up calendar alerts 90 days before any permit expiration

Schedule regular check-ins with your university's international office

Keep digital and physical copies of all important documents (passport, visa, residence permit, university enrollment letters)

Maintain a status maintenance checklist specific to Romanian requirements

Common Romania Residence Permit Questions

Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions about residence permits ('Permis de ședere') and student status in Romania. If you can't find the answer you're looking for, consult with your university's international student office or the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI).

Frequently Asked Questions

Additional Resources for Romania

General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI)

Official government portal for immigration information, procedures, and applications in Romania.

Learn More

Your University's International Student Office

Your institution's dedicated support for international students, offering guidance on academic and immigration matters.

Learn More

Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAE)

Information on visa requirements for entering Romania.

Learn More

Romanian Immigration Lawyers

Professional legal assistance for complex immigration matters in Romania.

Learn More

Need More Help?

If you couldn't find the answer to your question, don't hesitate to reach out for personalized assistance. Romanian immigration matters are complex and individual circumstances vary.

Emergency Contact Information in Romania

For urgent immigration matters or if you're facing immediate issues with your status, contact these emergency resources immediately:

Your university's emergency international student hotline (if available)
General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) local office (during business hours)
Romanian immigration attorney emergency services (if you have one retained)
Your country's embassy or consulate in Bucharest (for consular assistance)

Complete Guide to Romania

Explore all aspects of studying in Romania with our comprehensive guides

Explore

Discover universities, education system, and opportunities

Explore

Admissions

Application process, requirements, and deadlines

Explore

Finance

Tuition fees, living costs, and scholarships

Explore

Pre-Departure

Visa process, accommodation, and preparation

Explore

Post-ArrivalCurrent

Settlement, registration, and student life

Post-Arrival - Detailed Guides

Arrival Plan

University Enrollment

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Get personalized guidance for studying in Romania with our expert consultants

Get Free Consultation

Expert Support for Romania

Need help with your Romania residence permit or student status?

Qogent's advisors can help ensure you meet all requirements for your residence permit ('Permis de ședere') or student status maintenance in Romania, navigating the local regulations.

Talk to an Advisor