Are you looking to relocate to the “Silicon Valley of Europe”? Romania has become a premier destination for global talent, but choosing the right legal path is more critical than ever. As we enter 2026, the Romanian government has introduced significant updates—including a 90,000 work permit quota and a refined €3,800 income threshold for nomads.
Whether you’re a remote developer with a US client or a specialist seeking local employment in Bucharest, this guide compares the D/VC (Nomad) and D/AM (Employment) visas to help you make the right choice for your lifestyle and wallet.
The Core Comparison: Nomad vs. Worker
The fundamental difference lies in who pays you. In 2026, the Romanian authorities have sharpened the distinction between remote workers and local staff.
- Romania Digital Nomad Visa 2026 (D/VC) This visa is for people who work remotely. Your employer or clients must be outside Romania. You use the internet to do your job from anywhere.
- Romania Work Permit (D/AM) This is for people who get a job with a Romanian company. You sign a local work contract called CIM (Individual Employment Contract).
Quick Comparison Table: 2026 Rules
| Feature | Digital Nomad Visa (D/VC) | Work Permit (D/AM) |
|---|---|---|
| Income Requirement | About €3,800 per month (3 times the average gross salary) | Around €800-€1,000 per month (minimum gross wage) |
| Annual Limit | No limit – unlimited | Limited number of spots (usually 100,000) |
| Tax on Income | Often 0% if you stay less than 183 days | About 40-45% total (income tax + contributions) |
| Employer Location | Must be outside Romania | Must be in Romania |
| Travel in Schengen Area | Full access (no border checks) | Full access (no border checks) |
This table shows the main differences. The nomad visa has high income needs but low taxes. The work permit is easier for lower salaries but has higher taxes.
The Income Rules: €3,800 vs. Minimum Wage
Money is important when you choose.
- For Digital Nomad Visa You must prove you earn at least 3 times the average gross salary in Romania. In 2026, this is around €3,800 per month. You need to show this income for the last 6 months. It is hard if your pay is lower. But it fits many remote workers in tech or other good jobs.
- For Work Permit You only need the national minimum gross wage. In 2026, this is about €800-€1,000 per month. If you have a job offer from a Romanian company, this is easier. Companies like to hire people for lower costs.
The nomad visa is for high earners who work remotely. The work permit helps people with normal or lower salaries who want local jobs.
The 2026 Limit Warning & Schengen Travel
Watch out for the work permit limit.
- Work Permit Limit The government sets a number of new work permits each year. It is often 100,000. Many times, they run out by the end of the year. If you apply late, you may have to wait.
- Nomad Visa Advantage There is no limit for digital nomad visas. You can apply any time if you meet the income rule. This is safe if you move at the end of the year.
- Full Schengen Access Good news for both! In 2026, Romania is fully in the Schengen area. Both visas give you a residence permit. You can travel freely in Schengen countries. You can stay up to 90 days in 180 in other places without checks. This makes trips easy.
Tax Benefits
Taxes are a big reason to choose the nomad visa.
- Digital Nomad Taxes If you stay less than 183 days in any 12-month period, you pay no Romanian taxes on your foreign income. This means 0% tax on your salary for the first months. Many nomads like this. You save a lot of money.
- Local Worker Taxes If you work for a Romanian company, you pay full taxes. This includes 10% income tax plus social and health contributions. Total can be 40-45% of your gross salary. But you get local benefits like pension and free health care.
The nomad visa saves money on taxes if you do not stay too long. The work permit gives you social protection.
Which One Should You Choose?
Think about your situation.
Choose the Digital Nomad Visa if:
- You earn more than €3,800 per month.
- Your boss or clients are outside Romania.
- You want low or no taxes for the first 6 months.
- You like freedom and no quota worries.
- You plan short stays or renew carefully.
Choose the Work Permit if:
- Your salary is lower than the nomad level.
- You have a job offer from a Romanian company.
- You want local health care and pension.
- You plan to stay long and build a life here.
Many remote workers pick the nomad visa for flexibility. People who want local jobs pick the work permit.
How to Apply: The eVisa.ro Portal
Both start the same way.
Prepare Documents
You need:
- Clean criminal record (with apostille).
- Health insurance for at least €30,000.
- Proof of home in Romania (like a rent contract).
Submit Online
Go to eVisa.ro portal. Upload papers.
- For nomads: Show remote work proof and income.
- For workers: Show job offer and work permit from company.
Enter Romania and Get Card
After visa approval, enter Romania. Go to local IGI office for biometrics. Get your residence card.
The process takes time. Start early.
Final Thoughts
Romania is welcoming in 2026. Fast internet, low living costs, and nice places make it good for nomads and workers. Pick the right option based on your job and money.
Still not sure? Think about your monthly pay and who pays you. Comment your income level, and people can help.
Share this guide with friends who work remotely. Stay updated on rules.
Disclaimer: This is just information. Rules can change. Check official sites like IGI or Ministry of Foreign Affairs for latest details. Talk to experts before you decide.