As Romania hardens its position as a major European logistics hub, warehouse worker chances have increased fast. However, with the govt’s recent decision to set a foreign labor quota of 90,000 for 2026 (a slight reduce from 2025), staying informed on the specific papers and fees is more critical than ever to ensure your candidates isn’t rejected. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of the Romania Warehouse Worker Visa requirements for 2026, helping you navigate the process from job offer to residence permit.
The 2026 Landscape: Quotas and Labor Reforms
The Romanian labor market is balancing a high demand for logistics staff with new protective regulations. For 2026, the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) has transitioned toward a fully digitalized application system to streamline processing.
The 2026 Foreign Worker Quota
The Foreign Worker Quota 2026 (Contingentul de lucrători străini) has been capped at 90,000 permits. While employers in the Bucharest-Ilfov Industrial Zone and West Industrial Parks continue to scout for third-country nationals, competition is tighter.
What is the “Aviz de Muncă”?
This is the most important paper. It is called Employment Notice. Your boss must get it first. They have to show that no person from Romania or the EU can do the job. They do a test for this. It is called Labor Market Test. Only after this, they can hire you. Many warehouse jobs are hard. Local people do not always want them. That is why companies hire from other countries. But with the lower limit in 2026, bosses must move fast.
List of Papers You Must Have for 2026
To get the long-stay visa for work (called Viza D/AM), you need many papers. All papers must be changed into Romanian language. They must also be made official.
Here is the list:
- Passport: It must be good for at least 6 months after you plan to stay.
- Police Paper (Criminal Record): A paper from police in your country. It shows you have no big problems with the law.
- Health Paper (Medical Certificate): A doctor must check you. The paper says you are strong enough for warehouse work, like carrying heavy things.
- Place to Live Paper: A contract for rent. Or a letter from your boss that says they give you a home.
- Job Contract: The paper you sign with your boss. The pay must be at least the minimum wage in Romania.
Extra for Some Jobs
- Forklift Paper (If you need it): If your job is to drive a forklift, you need proof of your training. Romania must accept it.
Get all papers ready with care. If one is missing, your application can stop. Many people pay for help with translation.
Costs and Money You Need
You must plan money for fees. Here is a simple list for 2026 (prices are about this much):
| Type of Fee | How Much (about) | Who Pays |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Fee at Embassy (D/AM) | €120 | You |
| Work Permit Fee | €100 | Your Boss |
| Residence Permit Fee | About €259 (in RON) | You |
| Health Insurance | €30 to €100 | You |
Good Tip: Keep the paper that shows you paid the €120 visa fee. You must show it when you talk at the embassy. Your job contract must show good pay. Warehouse jobs usually pay more than the minimum because the work is hard.
Steps to Apply
Here are the easy steps:
- Find a Job: Look for work in big warehouse areas. Good places are Ploiești or Arad. Use job websites or helpers.
- Boss Gets Approval: Your boss applies online for the Aviz de muncă. They do the test to show the job is open.
- Apply for Visa: When you get the approval paper, go to Romanian embassy in your country. Do this in 60 days. Take all papers.
- Come to Romania: Fly or come with your visa. Sign the full job contract here.
- Get Residence Card: In 30 days after you arrive, go to IGI office near you. Get the plastic card for staying.
The whole thing can take some months. Start soon because of the limit.
Common Questions (FAQ)
Can I change my boss in Romania?
In 2026, the permit is only for one boss. If you want new job, the new boss must apply for new papers. You can stay in Romania most times if your old permit is still good.
What is the lowest pay for warehouse work in 2026?
The minimum pay changes every year. It will be good to compete with other EU countries. Warehouse jobs often pay more.
Do I need to speak Romanian?
For normal warehouse work, no. Simple English is okay. People use easy words or hands to talk. But learning some Romanian helps in daily life.
Conclusion: Start Your Life in Romania
There are many jobs open now in warehouses. Jobs like checking stock, picking items, packing boxes. Romania grows fast in this business. If you prepare all papers and pay fees early, you can get your place before the 2026 limit is full.
Are you ready?
- Look for new jobs in Ploiești and Arad areas.
- Check if your passport is ready.
Would you like help to make a good CV for warehouse jobs in Romania?
Disclaimer: This is only to help you learn. Always check the real rules on the IGI website or with your boss before you apply.