Romania Introduces D/AM1 and D/AM2 Work Visas: What Foreign Workers and Employers Need to Know in 2026

Romania’s Biggest Immigration Reform in Years

Romania has launched a major overhaul of its immigration and foreign workforce system through Government Emergency Ordinance No. 32/2026. One of the most significant changes is the introduction of two new long-stay employment visa categories: D/AM1 and D/AM2.

The reform replaces key parts of the previous work permit framework and introduces a digital application process through the WorkinRomania.gov.ro platform. The new system is designed to simplify hiring procedures, improve oversight, and better address Romania’s growing labor shortages.

Why Romania Changed Its Work Visa System

Romania has experienced a sharp increase in demand for foreign workers in sectors such as construction, manufacturing, logistics, hospitality, healthcare, and IT.

Authorities reported that while more than 100,000 work authorizations were issued in previous years, a significant percentage of approved workers never arrived in Romania. To improve efficiency and reduce administrative burdens, the government introduced a fully digital immigration framework and restructured employment visas into two categories.

What Is the D/AM1 Visa?

The D/AM1 visa is designed for highly qualified workers and specialized categories of foreign nationals.

Who Can Apply?

Eligible applicants include:

• Highly qualified professionals
• Engineers
• IT specialists
• Economists and financial experts
• Senior managers
• Researchers and academics
• Professional athletes
• Specialists involved in strategic infrastructure projects
• Individuals performing activities requested by government ministries or public authorities
• Certain artistic and scientific professionals

Key Benefits of D/AM1

No Annual Quota Restrictions

Unlike traditional labor migration routes, D/AM1 applicants are generally not subject to annual foreign worker quotas. This allows employers to recruit highly skilled talent more flexibly.

Faster Access to Specialized Talent

The visa is intended to help Romanian employers fill positions that require advanced qualifications or specialized expertise.

Employer-Led Digital Application

Applications are submitted directly by the employer through Romania’s new digital platform, streamlining the process and reducing paperwork.

What Is the D/AM2 Visa?

The D/AM2 visa is designed for general labor, seasonal workers, and cross-border workers.

Who Can Apply?

Typical occupations may include:

• Construction workers
• Welders
• Factory workers
• Warehouse staff
• Hospitality workers
• Agricultural workers
• Drivers and logistics personnel
• Maintenance workers
• Nursing assistants and support staff in shortage occupations

Connection to the Shortage Occupation List

One of the most important features of the D/AM2 visa is that it is linked to Romania’s official Shortage Occupations List.

Employers can generally recruit foreign workers under this category only for occupations that have been identified as experiencing labor shortages within Romania.

Subject to Annual Quotas

Unlike D/AM1, D/AM2 visas remain subject to annual foreign worker quotas established by the Romanian government. For 2026, Romania has allocated a large quota to address labor market demand.

Key Differences Between D/AM1 and D/AM2

Sources: Romanian immigration reforms and WorkinRomania platform guidelines.

Elimination of Traditional Work Permits

One of the most notable changes under the new legislation is the gradual removal of the traditional employment permit system.

Previously, employers had to obtain separate employment authorizations before workers could apply for visas. Under the new framework:

• Applications are submitted digitally
• Employers register through WorkinRomania.gov.ro
• Visa processing becomes more centralized
• Administrative procedures are consolidated into a single workflow

This is expected to reduce bureaucracy and improve transparency over time.

New Employer Compliance Requirements

The reform also introduces stricter obligations for employers.

Employers may be required to:

• Register on the WorkinRomania platform
• Maintain compliance with labor regulations
• Provide bilingual employment contracts in certain situations
• Meet financial guarantee requirements depending on recruitment volumes
• Demonstrate genuine labor needs before hiring foreign workers

Authorities have indicated that non-compliant employers could face restrictions or suspension from the recruitment system.

What Does This Mean for Foreign Workers?

For foreign nationals seeking employment in Romania, the new system offers:

Advantages

✅ More transparent application process

✅ Clear distinction between skilled and general labor pathways

✅ Digital application procedures

✅ Increased opportunities in sectors facing labor shortages

Potential Challenges

⚠️ New digital systems may experience adjustment periods

⚠️ More employer compliance checks

⚠️ Stricter documentation requirements

⚠️ Greater scrutiny of recruitment agencies and intermediaries

Final Thoughts

Romania’s introduction of the D/AM1 and D/AM2 visa categories marks one of the most significant immigration reforms in the country’s recent history. By separating highly qualified professionals from general labor recruitment and introducing a fully digital application process, Romania aims to create a more efficient and transparent immigration system.

For employers, the changes offer new opportunities to recruit international talent while increasing accountability. For foreign workers, understanding which visa category applies to their profession will be essential for a successful application.

As Romania continues to address labor shortages and attract global talent, the D/AM1 and D/AM2 visa framework is expected to become the foundation of the country’s future immigration strategy.