5 Steps for Transnational Secondment to Romania from a Non-EU Country

Businesses based outside the EU that plan to send employees on transnational secondment to Romania need to understand the immigration procedures involved. The process can be complex and time-consuming, but proper planning helps ensure a successful secondment. This article outlines the steps required to obtain a work permit and a residence permit and to comply with tax and social security regulations.

What transnational secondment means

Intragroup secondment refers to the temporary transfer of an employee from one company within a multinational group to another company within the same group in a different country, common among multinational companies operating in multiple countries.

Transnational secondment can take different forms. One common scenario is secondment under a service provision contract, where an employee is sent to another company to provide specific services. In an intragroup context, employees are temporarily assigned to different units within the same group. Another form occurs when a temporary employment agency assigns an employee to another company. These variations reflect the flexibility of arrangements that exist within transnational employment.

Step 1: Obtain a work permit

The first step is obtaining a work permit, granted by the Romanian Immigration Office and required for non-EU citizens who want to work in the country. The employer must submit a request to the Immigration Office along with the job description and other necessary documents, such as proof of employment and a police clearance certificate.

Step 2: Apply for a visa

Once the work permit is secured, the next step is applying for a visa at the Romanian Consulate in the employee's country of residence. The application requires the work permit, the employee's passport, and other supporting documents. The visa application process can take several weeks or months, so early planning is important.

Step 3: Register with the police

Within three days of arrival in Romania, the employee must register with the local police, providing personal and contact information along with the address of their place of residence.

Step 4: Obtain a residence permit

After registering with the police, the employee applies for a residence permit, issued by the Romanian Immigration Office and required for non-EU citizens planning to stay in Romania for more than 90 days. Obtaining it requires submitting various documents, including proof of employment.

Step 5: Comply with tax and social security regulations

As an employer in Romania, the company must comply with tax and social security regulations, including registering with the relevant authorities, calculating and paying taxes and social security contributions, and submitting regular reports. Failure to comply can result in fines, penalties, and legal issues, so it is important to have all necessary procedures and documents in place before the secondment begins.

Why this matters

Transnational secondment to Romania from a non-EU country involves several interconnected steps, from the initial work permit through ongoing tax and social security compliance. Employers who plan ahead and prepare the required documentation at each stage are better positioned for a smooth secondment process.

Sources: Romanian Immigration Office