Romania has proposed a new Golden Visa program that would grant non-EU and non-EEA investors a 5-year renewable residence permit in exchange for a minimum investment of €400,000 in the country’s economy. The initiative is part of Romania’s plan to attract foreign capital and strengthen its position among Europe’s competitive investor-residence markets.
Minimum Investment Requirements
The draft legislation currently recognizes multiple eligible investment categories, including:
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Real estate valued at €400,000+ (held for at least 5 years)
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Romanian government bonds with a minimum 5-year maturity
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Investments in ASF-regulated investment funds
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Acquisition of shares in Romanian-listed companies worth €400,000 or more
Investors must maintain their chosen investment throughout the permit duration.
5-Year Residence Permit With Flexible Stay Conditions
One of the most appealing features of Romania’s proposal:
✅ No minimum physical stay requirement
This allows investors to retain residency rights in Romania — and access to the wider EU — without relocating full-time.
Family members would also be eligible for residency under the same permit.
Strict Due Diligence & Security Screening
The program includes comprehensive background checks to ensure compliance and transparency. Authorities involved would include:
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Romanian Intelligence Service (SRI)
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Foreign Intelligence Service (SIE)
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National Office for the Prevention and Combating of Money Laundering (ONPCSB)
Applicants must prove a legal source of funds and cannot appear on international sanctions lists.
Pathway to Permanent Residency & Citizenship
The Golden Visa does not grant citizenship directly, but it can lead to:
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Permanent residency after 5 years
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Possible eligibility for Romanian citizenship, depending on existing residency laws
Currently, Romanian nationality rules require 8 years of lawful residence, which can be reduced by up to 3 years for applicants who:
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Contribute economically or culturally
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Demonstrate strong integration
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Engage in social or human-rights efforts
Further clarity on the citizenship timeline is expected during the regulation phase.
Legislative Status: Not Yet in Force
The proposal still awaits approval through Romania’s bicameral legislative process. It must:
1️⃣ Pass Senate and Chamber of Deputies votes
2️⃣ Undergo possible Constitutional Court review
3️⃣ Be signed by the President
4️⃣ Be published in the Official Gazette
Only after these steps will the Golden Visa become operational.
An Emerging Competitor in Europe’s Investment Market
Romania joins a growing list of countries launching or expanding investor visa programs to attract global talent and foreign investment. With its competitive threshold and strategic EU location, experts believe Romania could quickly become an attractive destination for international investors once the program launches.
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