From Application to Approval: Your Guide to Work Permit Renewal for Babysitters

Engaging introduction

Renewing a work permit in Romania can feel daunting, especially when you are balancing childcare responsibilities, shifts, and family commitments. Whether you are a full-time live-in nanny in Bucharest, a part-time babysitter in Cluj-Napoca, or supporting a busy family in Timisoara or Iasi, the renewal process comes with specific steps, timelines, and documentation standards you cannot afford to miss.

This guide breaks the process down into clear, practical steps tailored to babysitters and the families or agencies that employ them. You will learn what needs renewing (and what does not), how early to start, which forms and documents you must prepare, typical fees, and what to expect at the immigration office. We will also flag common pitfalls that cause delays or rejections, give salary and cost examples in both RON and EUR, and share city-specific tips for major hubs like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi.

If you are an employer or a domestic worker in Romania, use this as your action plan from application to approval.

Who this guide is for: non-EU/EEA/Swiss babysitters working legally in Romania and their employers (families, nanny agencies, household services companies).
What it covers: renewals for continued employment, cases requiring a new work permit, timelines, city-specific insights, and practical checklists.
What it is not: personal legal advice. Regulations can change, and procedures vary by county immigration office (IGI). Always verify current requirements on the official IGI (Inspectoratul General pentru Imigrari) channels or use a qualified consultant.

The Romanian framework for work authorization: what babysitters need to know

Work permit vs. residence permit: know the difference

In Romanian practice, two pieces matter for non-EU babysitters:

Work permit (aviz de munca): Typically requested by the employer before the worker enters Romania or starts employment. It authorizes the employer to hire the foreign national for a specified role, usually tied to a single employer and job.
Residence permit for work (sometimes referred to as the Single Permit): Once the work permit is issued, the worker obtains a long-stay visa for employment (if applying from abroad) and, after arrival, applies to IGI for a residence permit that grants the right to stay and work. This residence permit is what you carry in your wallet - the plastic card with your biometric data and validity dates.

What gets renewed annually? In most ongoing employment situations, the residence permit for work is what you renew. If you continue with the same employer, in the same role, you normally extend your right to stay for work by renewing the residence permit before it expires. A new work permit is usually not needed unless something material changes, such as changing the employer, job role, or in some cases substantially altering your work conditions.

Who applies for what

Employer: Initiates the initial work permit and, when required, applies for a new work permit if you change job or employer. The employer also provides a large part of the documents for residence permit renewal.
Employee (babysitter): Submits the residence permit renewal application at IGI, attends biometrics, and provides personal documents like passport, proof of accommodation, medical and insurance paperwork, and signed employment documents.

Typical employment setups for babysitters

Babysitters in Romania may be hired in one of the following ways:

Direct hire by a private household: The family acts as the employer and signs a Romanian individual employment contract (CIM). This is common in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi for full-time roles and live-in arrangements.
Hired via a household or staffing company: An agency or services company employs the babysitter and assigns them to client families under a services contract. In this case, the employer of record (EOR) facilitates payroll, social insurance, and immigration documentation.
Part-time or split schedule: Some caregivers work mornings with one family and afternoons with another. For non-EU workers, multiple employers can be complex. You will generally need authorization for each employer. Always check with IGI and, if necessary, obtain an additional work authorization.

Note: EU/EEA/Swiss citizens do not need a work permit in Romania but must register their residence. Ukrainian citizens under temporary protection have a different route and can often work without a traditional work permit; however, residence documentation and employer compliance still matter. This guide focuses on classic non-EU babysitter renewals.

Renewal or new work permit: which applies to you

Understanding whether you are extending your residence permit or applying for a brand-new work authorization saves time and prevents refused applications.

Renewal of residence permit (most common)

You typically renew your residence permit for work when all of the following apply:

Same employer
Same job role (e.g., babysitter, nanny, child caregiver)
Continuous employment with no significant gaps
Valid employment contract or extension/addendum in place for at least the duration you seek to renew

Outcome: Submit a residence permit extension application at IGI. You generally do not need a new work permit.

New work permit required (trigger events)

You usually need a new work permit if any of these occur:

Change of employer: Moving from Family A to Family B, or from an agency to a private household.
Change of role or job classification: For example, shifting from babysitter to general domestic worker with expanded duties or moving into a different field entirely.
Additional concurrent employer: Adding a second employer typically requires specific authorization. Always confirm requirements with IGI before starting the second job.
Significant change in work hours or remuneration that no longer aligns with the original authorization terms, especially if it dips below minimum legal thresholds.

Outcome: Employer secures a new work permit before you switch. After approval, you extend or update your residence permit accordingly.

What does not require a new work permit

Moving homes within the same city (but update your accommodation documents for your residence permit renewal).
Changing from live-out to live-in with the same employer, assuming your role and contract remain consistent.
Salary increases or minor adjustments that keep you above legal minima.

Timelines: when to start and how long it takes

Key timeline anchors

Track the residence permit expiry date printed on your card. This is the deadline that matters for your right to stay.
Recommended start time: Begin collecting documents 60-90 days before expiry.
Latest advisable filing date: At least 30 days before expiry. Submitting later increases the risk you will not receive approval in time and may lead to status gaps or penalties.

Typical processing times

Residence permit renewal: Commonly 30 days from complete submission, though it can extend to 45 days, especially in high-volume cities like Bucharest. Seasonality (September to December) can add delays.
New work permit (if needed): Often 15-30 business days for IGI to issue, depending on office workload and completeness of employer documentation.

City-specific lead times and appointment availability

Bucharest: High demand and longer queues. Online appointments can book out 2-4 weeks in advance. Walk-in slots are rare.
Cluj-Napoca: Faster appointment access, but book at least 2 weeks ahead during university intake seasons.
Timisoara: Generally efficient; plan 2-3 weeks ahead for appointments.
Iasi: Good availability outside academic peak periods; 1-2 weeks lead time is often enough.

Pro tip: If you cannot find an earlier appointment, monitor the booking portal in the morning. Offices sometimes release new slots.

Document checklists: what to prepare and how to prepare it

The exact checklist can vary by county office, but the following covers what babysitters and employers most often need. Always print a complete set and bring originals and copies.

A. Residence permit renewal - same employer, same role

Employee provides:

Valid passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the requested permit duration, with sufficient blank pages. If your passport is expiring soon, renew it before you file.
Current residence permit: Original card and copy.
Application form for residence permit extension: Complete in capital letters. Many offices provide a downloadable PDF. Double-check you tick the purpose of stay as employment.
Recent biometric photos: Typically 2 color photos (size requirements may vary; IGI often takes biometrics on site, but carry photos in case).
Proof of accommodation: Registered rental contract, hotel contract for extended stay, or a declaration of hosting from your employer or landlord, ideally with proof of property ownership and a notarized statement if required. If you changed address since the last permit, ensure you have updated this with authorities as needed.
Proof of medical insurance: National health insurance (CASS) via employment is usual. If you are between contracts, consider private insurance that meets IGI standards; but for renewals under continuous employment, your inclusion in state health insurance through payroll is standard.
Medical certificate of fitness for work: Issued by an occupational health provider in Romania (medicina muncii), confirming you are fit to work as a babysitter/childcare worker. Many employers organize this for you.
Proof of means of subsistence: Payslips for the last 3 months or employer statement showing salary at or above the applicable thresholds. Keep totals consistent with your employment contract.
Tax and social contribution proof: Sometimes requested - employer can provide printouts or statements confirming that contributions have been paid.

Employer provides:

Employment contract (CIM) and any addendum extending the term: Must be registered in Revisal (Romania's electronic labor registry). Bring signed originals and copies.
Employer's up-to-date company records: Programmatically, this may include a trade registry extract or certificate, tax certificate, and a certificate of good standing for no outstanding obligations. Families acting as private employers should coordinate with their accountant or consultant for equivalent documentation.
Job description: Define duties clearly as babysitting/childcare to match your role. This helps IGI confirm alignment with your work authorization.
Accommodation support, if applicable: If the family provides live-in housing, include the hosting declaration and property documents as proof of accommodation.
Proof of payment of government fees: Receipt or payment slip, as requested by the local office.

B. New work permit needed - change of employer or role

Employer submits (to obtain the new work permit):

Application for work permit issuance
Proof of attempts to recruit locally (where applicable) and labor market testing requirements, if requested
Company records and certificates of compliance
Draft employment contract with salary details meeting legal minima for non-EU workers
Evidence of appropriate accommodation support, if part of the package
Proof of payment of work permit fee

Employee submits (after work permit issuance, for residence permit update/extension):

Passport, current residence permit (if any), visa (if applicable)
Work permit decision/approval
Signed employment contract
Evidence of accommodation, insurance, medical certificate, photos, and any additional forms requested by IGI

C. Translations, notarization, and apostille

Documents not in Romanian may require a certified translation by a sworn translator in Romania.
Some foreign documents (e.g., civil status or criminal record extracts) may require apostille or consular legalization, depending on the country of issuance.
Always bring originals plus copies. Keep digital scans on hand in a secure drive.

D. Fees and payment method

Government fees are typically paid in RON at designated banks or treasury units and can sometimes be paid online. Exact amounts may change; verify on IGI's official site or at the local office.
Keep the original receipt and at least one copy. Attach the copy to your application.

Compliance with salary and working conditions

Minimum salary and typical ranges

Your salary must meet or exceed legal thresholds. For full-time employees, the gross monthly minimum wage in Romania is set by government decision and can change annually. Employers should ensure that:

The employment contract states a gross salary at or above the national minimum gross wage.
Contributions to social insurance (CAS), health (CASS), and applicable income tax are withheld and paid.

Typical babysitter salary ranges (as of recent market observations):

Bucharest: 3,500 - 6,500 RON gross per month for full-time roles, depending on experience, hours, language skills, and live-in arrangements. Approx. 700 - 1,300 EUR.
Cluj-Napoca: 3,200 - 5,800 RON gross per month. Approx. 640 - 1,160 EUR.
Timisoara: 3,000 - 5,500 RON gross per month. Approx. 600 - 1,100 EUR.
Iasi: 2,800 - 5,000 RON gross per month. Approx. 560 - 1,000 EUR.

Weekend or night shifts, special needs care, and additional household duties can increase compensation. Live-in roles may include room and board. If room and board are provided, clarify in the contract whether these are taxable benefits and how they impact net pay.

Tax and social contributions snapshot

Employee contributions: Generally include pension (CAS) around 25% and health (CASS) around 10% of gross salary, plus 10% income tax applied to taxable base, subject to the latest rules and any exemptions.
Employer contributions: An additional employer-side labor insurance contribution is typically due.

Employers should use a certified accountant or payroll provider to ensure accurate and timely filings. For renewals, IGI may request proof that social contributions are up to date. Delays or arrears can stall your application.

Step-by-step renewal process for babysitters

Follow this sequence if you are renewing your residence permit with the same employer and role.

Step 1: Plan backwards from your expiry date

90 days before expiry: Confirm contract extension and request updated documents from your employer. Check passport validity.
60 days before expiry: Book your IGI appointment. If online booking is full, check daily for cancellations.
45 days before expiry: Finalize employment addendum, obtain occupational health certificate, gather accommodation documents.
30 days before expiry: Pay government fees and assemble the complete application pack.

Step 2: Gather documents and check for consistency

Make sure all names, dates, addresses, and job titles match across documents.
If you moved, bring a new rental contract registered as required. If you are live-in, prepare a notarized hosting declaration from your employer and property ownership proof.
Ensure payslips and employer statements align with the employment contract.

Step 3: Book your IGI appointment

Use the county-specific portal (Bucharest, Cluj, Timis, Iasi) to pick a date for filing and biometrics.
Print the appointment confirmation or save a screenshot.
Some offices require separate visits for file submission and card pickup.

Step 4: Pay fees and prepare receipts

Verify exact fee amounts and where to pay (bank, treasury, or online).
Attach fee receipts to your file. Keep copies.

Step 5: File the application and give biometrics

Arrive early with a neatly organized file: originals in one folder, copies in another.
Submit the application form, documents, and receipts. Answer officer questions politely and concisely.
Provide fingerprints and a photo if requested. You may receive a proof of submission slip.

Step 6: Track your application

Processing takes around 30 days. If IGI needs more documents, respond promptly, typically within the timeframe stated in their notice (often 10 days).
Check your phone and email regularly. Some offices update status via SMS or online trackers.

Step 7: Collect your new residence card

Bring your passport and the submission slip.
Confirm the validity dates and personal details on the card before leaving the office.
Notify your employer that the renewal is complete so they can update their records.

If you need a new work permit: the employer-led route

When changing employer or role, pause and sequence correctly to avoid unauthorized work:

New employer obtains a work permit for you. You generally should not start working for them until it is issued.
With the approved work permit in hand, you extend or update your residence permit.
Only after your right to stay and work is aligned with the new employer should you shift payroll and duties.

Time this process so your current authorization does not expire. If timing is tight, consult a specialist to avoid gaps in status.

Costs you should budget for

While exact government fees can change, plan for these cost categories:

Government fees for residence permit renewal: Payable in RON; verify the current amount at IGI. Bring receipts.
Work permit issuance fee (if changing employer): Paid by the employer; confirm the amount and receipt.
Occupational health certificate: 100 - 250 RON depending on clinic and city.
Certified translations and notarization: 30 - 60 RON per page for translation; notarization extra.
Passport renewal (if needed): Fees vary by nationality and consulate.
Courier or travel costs to IGI office.
Optional professional service fees: Immigration consultant or agency support.

Employers should also budget for payroll, social contributions, and any wage increases required to stay compliant with evolving minimum wage rules.

City-by-city insights: Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, Iasi

Bucharest

Demand and volume: Romania's busiest immigration office. Babysitter and nanny roles are in high demand, particularly in Districts 1 and 2.
Appointment strategy: Book 3-4 weeks in advance when possible. Monitor the portal daily for cancellations.
Salary snapshot: 3,500 - 6,500 RON gross for full-time, with English- or French-speaking nannies often at the higher end. Live-in roles may add value in-kind.
Common hiccup: Accommodation documents. Many tenants sublet without a registered contract. For renewals, IGI typically expects a registered rental contract or a notarized hosting declaration with property proof.

Cluj-Napoca

Demand and volume: Active tech and academic hub with steady demand for bilingual caregivers.
Appointment strategy: Book 2 weeks ahead, 3+ weeks during September-October.
Salary snapshot: 3,200 - 5,800 RON gross, with international families sometimes offering higher packages for flexible schedules.
Common hiccup: Overlapping roles for babysitters assigned via agencies. Ensure the job description and contract match the duties presented to IGI.

Timisoara

Demand and volume: Industrial and services mix. Immigration office is generally efficient but can be busier around factory intake cycles.
Appointment strategy: 2-3 weeks notice is typically enough.
Salary snapshot: 3,000 - 5,500 RON gross for full-time, with night or weekend surcharges for shift-based households.
Common hiccup: Documentation of paid social contributions. Keep employer certificates updated.

Iasi

Demand and volume: University city with many young families and returning diaspora households.
Appointment strategy: 1-2 weeks usually sufficient except at the start of academic semesters.
Salary snapshot: 2,800 - 5,000 RON gross, with premium for caregivers experienced with infants.
Common hiccup: Address updates. If you move, update your accommodation records promptly to avoid renewal delays.

Practical, actionable advice for a smooth renewal

Build a 90-day renewal calendar

Day -90: Passport check, employer meeting, contract extension confirmation.
Day -75: Book IGI appointment; schedule occupational health exam.
Day -60: Request employer letters, collect last 3 payslips, and tax compliance proof.
Day -45: Finalize accommodation documents (rental registration or hosting declaration).
Day -30: Pay fees and finalize the application pack; re-check for consistency.
Day -0: Attend appointment, submit file, give biometrics.

Create a document pack with clear labels

Red folder: Originals (passport, current permit, contract, property papers).
Blue folder: Copies for submission (sorted by checklist order).
USB or secure cloud: Scans of all documents in PDF, named consistently (e.g., 2026-05-10_Passport_JohnDoe.pdf).

Standardize your job description

Title: Babysitter or Nanny (avoid mixing with unrelated roles).
Core duties: Childcare, feeding, hygiene, school runs, playtime supervision, light tasks related to the child.
Hours: Full-time or part-time; define weekly schedule.
Work location: Address(es), noting live-in if applicable.

Keep payroll clean

Ensure every month shows regular salary payments meeting or exceeding legal minima.
Keep payslips and bank statements for the last 3-6 months.
Resolve any gaps in social contributions before filing.

Communicate proactively with IGI

If you receive a request for additional documents, respond within the stated deadline.
Be polite and concise. Provide exactly what is asked, with clear labels.

Avoid last-minute surprises

Passport expiry: Many renewals stall because the passport will expire soon. Renew your passport early.
Address changes: Update your rental registration or hosting declaration the moment you move.
Name changes: If you change your name (e.g., after marriage), ensure all documents match and bring civil status documents with translations/apostille as needed.

Case studies: what works in the real world

Case 1: Same employer renewal in Bucharest

Ana is a live-in nanny caring for a toddler in Sector 1. Her residence permit expires on June 30.

March 31 (Day -90): She checks her passport (valid until 2028) and confirms with the family they want to continue for another year.
April 10 (Day -80): The family's accountant prepares an addendum extending the employment contract to June next year and confirms all social contributions are paid.
April 20 (Day -70): Ana books an IGI appointment for May 25.
May 1 (Day -60): Ana obtains her occupational health fitness certificate and requests her last 3 payslips.
May 10 (Day -51): The family prepares a notarized hosting declaration; they own the apartment and include the property deed.
May 15 (Day -46): Ana pays the government fee at the designated bank and keeps the receipt.
May 25 (Day -36): She submits the file and gives biometrics.
June 20: IGI notifies that the card is ready. Ana picks it up and verifies details.

Outcome: Smooth, on-time renewal. No new work permit was necessary.

Case 2: Changing employer in Cluj-Napoca

Ravi is a part-time babysitter employed by an agency in Cluj. He wants to move to a full-time role with a private family and his current residence permit expires in 45 days.

New employer steps in: They apply for a new work permit immediately, providing a draft contract with a gross salary of 4,200 RON and clear babysitter duties.
Work permit issuance: IGI takes 20 business days to approve, during which Ravi completes an occupational health exam and collects accommodation documents (the new family will host him; they prepare a notarized declaration).
Residence permit update: With the new work permit granted and time still on the clock, Ravi files to extend/update his residence permit for work with the new employer.
Caution: Ravi does not start the new job until the paperwork aligns with the new employer to stay compliant.

Outcome: Successful transition without status gaps. The sequence was crucial: new work permit first, then residence permit update.

What if your application is delayed, incomplete, or refused

Delays

If IGI requests additional documents, provide them quickly within the stated deadline.
If your appointment is after your expiry date due to unavailability, visit the office or contact the hotline to request guidance. Do not assume you are automatically covered.

Incomplete submissions

Missing payslips, unclear accommodation proof, or expired passports are common issues. Prepare a full checklist review before filing.

Refusals

IGI issues a written decision with reasons. Depending on the grounds, you may be able to appeal or refile with corrected documents.
If a refusal happens close to your expiry, consult a specialist immediately. Exiting and re-entering on a new visa may be necessary in some scenarios.

Overstays and unauthorized work

Overstays can lead to fines and re-entry bans. Unauthorized work (e.g., starting with a new employer before authorization) risks refusal and penalties for both the worker and the employer.

Special situations for babysitters

Au pair vs. babysitter

Au pairs typically enter on cultural exchange terms, with limited hours, pocket money stipends, and specific host family obligations. Their path and paperwork differ from standard employment.
Babysitters are employees under labor law with formal contracts, payroll, and immigration tied to work permits and residence permits. Do not mix the two categories in applications.

Ukrainian nationals under temporary protection

Many can work without a classic work permit, but they still need valid identification, residence documentation, and compliant employment contracts. Employers should confirm the current framework and keep payroll and insurance compliant.

EU/EEA/Swiss citizens

No work permit is required. They must register residence if staying beyond certain periods. This guide focuses on non-EU renewals.

Family members of EU/EEA or Romanian citizens

May have facilitated residence routes. If you fall into this category, check the specific documentation and eligibility for family reunification or equivalent schemes.

Maternity or medical leave

If you are on protected leave near your renewal date, plan extra time to obtain any required employment confirmations and medical documents. Ensure payroll reflects the correct type of leave and contributions.

Employer compliance checklist for household hires

To keep renewals smooth and avoid fines, household employers should maintain the following:

Written employment contract (CIM) in Romanian, signed by both parties, covering job title, duties, schedule, salary, benefits, and termination terms.
Registration in Revisal and timely updates for contract amendments.
Payroll compliance: Payment of net salary, withholding of CAS, CASS, and income tax, and payment of employer contributions.
Accurate timesheets or schedules for part-time workers to verify hours.
Occupational health exam reports and renewal schedule.
Accommodation documents if hosting a live-in babysitter: property deed, hosting declaration, and any local registration requirements.
Safety and child protection policies: While not always legally mandated for private households, having clear house rules, emergency contacts, and consent procedures for outings reflects good practice.
Data privacy: Handle personal documents securely. Limit access to only those who need them.

Common pitfalls and how to prevent them

Starting late: Begin 60-90 days before expiry.
Mismatched job titles: Keep the role as babysitter/nanny consistently across documents.
Unregistered address: Make sure your rental contract is properly recorded or have a notarized hosting declaration in place.
Payroll gaps: Even one missing or late contribution can trigger questions. Keep a zero-gap record.
Passport problems: Replace expiring passports early.
Incomplete translations: Use a sworn translator and include apostilles if your home country requires them.

Sample templates you can adapt

Email to employer requesting renewal documents

Subject: Renewal documents for residence permit - [Your Name]

Dear [Employer Name],

My residence permit for work is due to expire on [Date]. To file the renewal 30 days in advance, could we please prepare the following by [Target Date]:

Addendum extending the employment contract through [New End Date]
Last 3 payslips and a brief employer letter confirming ongoing employment and salary
Updated accommodation documents (hosting declaration and property deed) if I will remain live-in, or confirmation if my rental remains unchanged
Confirmation that payroll contributions are up to date

I have booked the immigration appointment for [Date/Time] at [IGI Office]. Thank you for your support.

Best regards,

[Your Name]

File naming convention for scanned documents

2026-05-10_Passport_[FullName].pdf
2026-05-10_ResidenceCard_[FullName].pdf
2026-05-10_Contract_Addendum_[EmployerName]_[FullName].pdf
2026-05-10_Payslips_[YYYYMM-YYYYMM]_[FullName].pdf
2026-05-10_Accommodation_[Address or HostName].pdf
2026-05-10_Fees_Receipt_[IGI_Center].pdf

Conclusion: take control of your renewal with a clear plan

Renewing a work permit for babysitters in Romania is entirely manageable when you break it down into steps and deadlines. Know whether you need a residence permit renewal or a new work permit, align your documents with your real job situation, and file early. Keep payroll clean, addresses registered, and translations certified, and you will avoid the most common reasons for delay.

If you are a family or an agency employing babysitters in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, Iasi, or anywhere in Romania, ELEC can help you plan the timeline, prepare the file, and liaise with IGI so you can focus on what matters most - safe, consistent childcare.

Call to action: Contact ELEC for a tailored checklist, a 30-minute consultation, or full-service handling of your babysitter's renewal or change of employer. We will streamline your application from appointment booking to card pickup.

FAQ: renewing work permits for babysitters in Romania

1) Do I need to renew my work permit every year, or just my residence permit?

If you are staying with the same employer and the same job role, you typically renew only your residence permit for work. A new work permit is generally required when you change employer or significantly change your role.

2) How early should I apply for renewal?

Start gathering documents 60-90 days before your card expires and aim to submit at least 30 days before expiry. Appointment slots in Bucharest can fill up 2-4 weeks in advance, so book early.

3) What happens if my passport is expiring soon?

Renew your passport before filing your residence extension. IGI often requires that your passport remain valid for several months beyond the requested permit duration. Submitting with a near-expiry passport can cause delays or refusals.

4) Can I add a second employer?

Possibly, but you will likely need additional authorization. Before accepting a second job, consult IGI or an immigration specialist to confirm the correct procedure. Working for a second employer without proper authorization risks penalties.

5) What salary must be shown for my renewal?

Your contract and payslips should show a gross salary at or above the national minimum wage, and ideally within the market ranges for babysitters. IGI may ask for proof of means of subsistence, such as the last 3 payslips.

6) Can I travel while my renewal is in process?

Travel during processing can be risky if your current permit expires while you are abroad. Some applicants receive a submission receipt, but it may not substitute for a valid permit at the border. Discuss travel plans with IGI before leaving Romania during a pending renewal.

7) My application was refused. What now?

You will receive a written decision with reasons. Depending on the grounds, you may be able to appeal within specified deadlines or refile with corrected documents. Act quickly and seek professional advice to protect your status.