Romania is exploring a Residency by Investment Program that would grant non-EU investors a five-year renewable residence permit in exchange for a minimum investment of €400,000. The initiative positions the country as an emerging option for globally mobile high-net-worth individuals seeking long-term residence in Europe.

The draft framework allows investors to choose from multiple channels, including government bonds, real estate, listed company shares, or investment funds authorized by Romania’s Financial Supervisory Authority (ASF). The selected investment must be maintained for the full duration of the permit.

Zero-Stay Flexibility and Family Inclusion

Notably, the program is designed with no minimum annual residency requirement, enabling investors to retain their status without physical presence in Romania. Family members can be included under the same permit, making it a family-friendly option for wealth planning and long-term European mobility.

Applicants would need to demonstrate the legal origin of funds, comply with international sanctions regulations, and undergo security and risk assessments conducted in consultation with Romania’s intelligence and anti-money-laundering agencies.

Path to Permanent Residency and Citizenship

The proposal grants investors a route to permanent residency after five years, with the possibility of applying for Romanian citizenship under national law. While details around naturalization timelines remain unclear, Romania’s standard rules allow citizenship applications after eight years of legal residence, reducible to five years for investors demonstrating active economic engagement or social contribution.

This framework aligns Romania with a growing number of countries introducing investor-focused residency programs in 2025, offering strategic alternatives for families and entrepreneurs seeking flexible European options.

Legislative Roadmap

Before coming into force, the proposal must navigate Romania’s bicameral legislative process:

1. Initial review in the Senate, followed by examination in the Chamber of Deputies
2. Committee assessments on economic, legal, and security implications, including expert consultations
3. Votes in both chambers, with potential review by the Constitutional Court for compliance with EU law and national regulations
4. Presidential approval, after which the law is published in Romania’s Official Gazette
5. Implementation via ministerial guidelines detailing application procedures, due diligence, and investment monitoring

Global Context

Romania’s proposed Golden Visa joins a wave of new residency-by-investment programs launched in 2025. Countries including Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, the Maldives, and the UAE have introduced investor routes ranging from $250,000 to $5 million, reflecting rising global demand for flexible, permanent, and family-inclusive residency solutions.

For high-net-worth individuals, Romania’s draft program presents a cost-effective entry into the EU, offering investment flexibility, family coverage, and a clear path to European citizenship.

For detailed guidance on Romania’s proposed investor residency and other strategic European options, visit Free From Borders.