Smart Building Systems: Essential Skills for Modern Electricians

Introduction

If you are a professional electrician in Global thinking about your next career move, Romania should be on your shortlist. The country is modernizing fast, fueled by EU investment, growth in residential and commercial construction, and a nationwide push toward energy efficiency and renewable energy. Smart building systems are at the center of this transition. From KNX-based home automation to fully integrated building management systems in high-rise offices and factories, Romania is creating new opportunities for electricians who can work with both traditional installations and digital controls.

Relocating to a new country is a big step. You want reliable pay, a clear legal path to work, recognition of your skills, and a good quality of life. This guide gives you practical, explicit, and up-to-date information on how to relocate to Romania as an electrician focused on modern technologies. We cover ANRE authorization, Romanian standards, EU low voltage directives, city-by-city job prospects, realistic salaries and living costs, visa and work permits for Global citizens, and the essential skills that make you valuable in smart buildings, industrial automation, and renewable energy projects.

Why Romania?

EU membership and market access

Romania is a full member of the European Union. That means stable regulation, access to EU-funded infrastructure, and alignment with EU electrical and safety directives. For electricians, EU rules create a shared technical language across many countries. Mastering Romania's local norms plus EU standards sets you up not only for Romanian jobs but also for long-term work across the European market.

Lower cost of living with competitive EU salaries

Compared with Western Europe, Romania offers a lower cost of living while maintaining competitive wages for skilled trades. In Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi, qualified electricians can earn strong incomes in euros or lei (RON) and still save. Housing, transport, and daily expenses are generally more affordable than in many EU capitals.

Demand for electricians is strong and rising

Romania's construction sector is expanding, with office towers, logistics centers, industrial facilities, and residential projects across major cities. Public and private investments in energy efficiency, EV charging, and renewable energy create additional demand. Smart building technologies are moving from high-end projects into mainstream residential and commercial developments, opening roles for electricians who can install, commission, and maintain integrated systems.

Quality of life

Romania offers a comfortable lifestyle with vibrant city centers, easy access to nature, and a growing expat community. Cities like Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca have international schools, modern healthcare, coworking spaces, and lively cultural scenes. English is widely spoken in tech and engineering circles, and locals are generally welcoming, especially when you make the effort to learn some Romanian.

Job Market Overview

Romania's electrician job market is broad and diverse. For professionals focused on smart building systems and modern tools, several segments stand out.

Key sectors

Residential construction and renovation: Smart lighting (DALI), KNX home automation, heat pump integration, EV chargers, photovoltaic (PV) tie-ins for prosumer homes.
Commercial buildings: Building Management Systems (BMS) integrating HVAC, access control, video surveillance, lighting, and energy monitoring. Protocols include KNX, BACnet, Modbus, and OPC. Vendors and platforms used in Romania include Schneider Electric EcoStruxure, Siemens Desigo, Honeywell EBI, Johnson Controls Metasys, and KNX-certified solutions from ABB, Hager, and Legrand.
Industrial automation: PLC-based controls (Siemens, Schneider, Allen-Bradley), variable frequency drives, motor control centers, SCADA systems, machine safety, and power quality monitoring in factories and logistics centers.
Renewable energy: PV installations for residential and commercial sites, onshore wind maintenance, battery storage integrations, and EV charging infrastructure in urban and highway locations.
Data centers and critical facilities: UPS systems, switchgear, redundancy design, environmental and power monitoring, and strict commissioning protocols. Growth is steady around Bucharest and regional hubs.

Typical employers in Romania

Electrical contractors and MEP integrators: EnergoBit (Cluj), Electromontaj, Elsaco, ELCO, and many medium-sized local firms in each major city.
Construction firms: Bog'Art, Strabag, Porr, Skanska Romania, and regional general contractors.
Industrial facilities: Automotive suppliers, electronics manufacturers, FMCG plants, and logistics companies.
Renewable energy companies: Monsson, EDP Renewables, and local EPCs focused on rooftop and ground-mounted PV.
Utilities and grid operators: E-Distributie, Delgaz Grid, DEER (Electrica), plus contractors serving Transelectrica projects.
Building technology vendors and integrators: Schneider Electric Romania, Siemens, Honeywell Romania, ABB, Johnson Controls, and certified KNX partners.

City snapshots

Bucharest: Highest volume of projects. Office towers, mixed-use complexes, hospitals, and data centers. Strong demand for BMS technicians, commissioning engineers, and site supervisors.
Cluj-Napoca: Growing tech hub with premium residential projects and commercial builds. EnergoBit and other local integrators support industrial and smart building work.
Timisoara: Strong manufacturing base near the western border. Industrial automation roles, retrofits, and greenfield plants.
Iasi: Expanding IT and services sector. University city with steady residential and institutional projects.
Brasov, Constanta, Craiova, Ploiesti: Regional centers with consistent construction and industrial work, including logistics, tourism infrastructure, and energy projects.

In-demand skills for smart buildings

KNX design and commissioning; DALI lighting control; integration with HVAC.
BMS architecture and protocols (BACnet/IP, Modbus RTU/TCP). Trend, Cylon, Niagara N4 knowledge is a plus.
Network-aware electricians: basic IP addressing, VLAN concepts for OT networks, PoE for cameras and access control.
Testing and commissioning: RCD trip-time measurements, insulation resistance, loop impedance, harmonics and power quality checks using compliant instruments.
Safety and compliance: Understanding of Romanian and EU low voltage standards, documentation, method statements, and test reports that will pass local inspections.

Legal Requirements (Work Permits and Visas)

Your path depends on your citizenship.

For EU/EEA/Swiss citizens

No work permit is required. You can work in Romania without a visa.
You must register your residence if you stay beyond 90 days. Apply for a Registration Certificate at the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) in your city.
Documents: passport/ID, employment contract or proof of self-employment, health insurance, and accommodation proof.

For non-EU citizens (Global)

Most electricians from outside the EU/EEA will follow an employer-sponsored process.

Employer obtains a work authorization (aviz de munca)

The Romanian employer applies with IGI. They may need to show a labor market test proving the job could not be filled locally.
Processing time: typically 30 to 45 days.
Documents: draft employment contract, proof of company credentials, your qualifications, criminal record certificate, health insurance, and accommodation arrangements.

Apply for a long-stay work visa (D/AM)

Once the work authorization is issued, you apply for the D/AM visa at a Romanian consulate.
Processing time: usually 10 to 30 days.
You will present your passport, work authorization, proof of accommodation, medical insurance, and financial means.

Enter Romania and obtain the residence permit (Single Permit)

After entry, apply at IGI for the residence permit tied to your job, generally valid for up to 1 year and renewable.
You must also sign your employment contract before starting work and undergo pre-employment medical checks.

Family members

Spouse and minor children may join you. They apply for family reunification visas after you receive your residence permit. Spousal work rights depend on permit type; clarify with IGI.

Alternative: EU Blue Card

If you hold a university degree and receive a highly qualified job offer meeting the salary threshold, the EU Blue Card is an option. However, most electrician roles use the standard work permit route.

Important notes:

All foreign documents must be translated into Romanian by a certified translator and may require legalization or apostille.
Keep copies of diplomas, trade certificates, employment references, and detailed job descriptions. They help both with immigration and with credential recognition.
Start early. From job offer to residence card can take 2 to 4 months, sometimes longer.

Official resources:

IGI: igi.mai.gov.ro
Romanian MFA (consular): mae.ro

Certification & License Recognition

In Romania, electricians typically need authorization from ANRE (Autoritatea Nationala de Reglementare in domeniul Energiei) to legally perform certain categories of electrical work, especially for design, execution, operation, and verification in low voltage and medium/high voltage installations.

Understanding ANRE authorization for electricians

ANRE issues electrician authorizations in a graded system, with roles and voltage scopes. A common mapping used in practice is:

Grade I (A/B): Operation and maintenance of electrical installations
Grade II (A/B): Execution (installation) of electrical works
Grade III (A/B): Design of electrical installations
Grade IV (A/B): Verification/inspection and technical endorsement

Voltage range:

A: up to 1 kV (low voltage)
B: above 1 kV

This means, for example:

Grade II A allows you to execute low voltage installations.
Grade II B extends execution rights above 1 kV.
Grade IV A/B is typically required for those performing verifications and issuing compliance reports.

The exact scope for each grade/category is defined by ANRE's current regulations. Always consult the latest ANRE guide when choosing your application path.

Do foreign electricians need ANRE?

Employees: Many companies will hire you as an electrician if you have strong experience and agree to obtain the relevant ANRE authorization soon after starting. For certain tasks and sign-off responsibilities, an ANRE-authorized person must supervise or approve the work.
Independent contractors: If you want to sign projects, issue verification reports, or contract directly, the relevant ANRE grade is essential.

How to obtain ANRE authorization as a foreign electrician

Choose your category

Decide whether you need execution (Grade II), operation (Grade I), design (Grade III), or verification (Grade IV), and whether you need scope A (up to 1 kV) or B (above 1 kV).

Gather documents

Identification: passport and residence permit (or registration certificate for EU citizens).
Education: diplomas and certificates proving your electrician qualification. Translate into Romanian and legalize/apostille if required.
Experience: employment references detailing the type of work performed, voltage levels, duration, and responsibilities.
Medical: fitness-for-work certificate.
Safety: proof of safety training (SSM), fire safety (PSI) awareness, and first aid are often required by employers and helpful for ANRE.

Apply for the exam session

ANRE organizes sessions throughout the year. You submit your application, pay the fee, and attend the exam in Romanian. Some centers may allow additional support, but plan to operate in Romanian technical terminology for best results.

Prepare for the exam

Study Romanian standards and regulations in force. Focus areas:
- I7 Normative for low voltage installations (latest revision used in practice).
- SR HD 60364 series (Romanian adoption of IEC 60364 for low voltage installations).
- Earthing and protection systems, RCD selection, short-circuit calculations, voltage drop, and selectivity.
- Documentation and testing protocols, including PRAM measurements (insulation, earthing, continuity, and lightning protection checks).
- Work safety procedures for electrical installations, lockout/tagout, PPE.

Receive authorization and maintain it

ANRE authorizations are typically issued for a limited period and must be renewed. Continuing professional development may be required. Keep records of projects, training, and instrument calibration certificates.

Recognition of previous credentials

Higher education degrees can be recognized through CNRED (National Center for Recognition and Equivalence of Diplomas) if needed, especially for engineering roles.
Vocational qualifications may be assessed by Romanian employers and ANRE based on your documentation and experience. The National Qualifications Authority (ANC) may be relevant for certain trades, but ANRE authorization is the key for electrical work.

EU directives and Romanian standards you must know

Low Voltage Directive (LVD) 2014/35/EU: Product safety for equipment in 50-1000 V AC ranges.
EMC Directive 2014/30/EU: Electromagnetic compatibility for devices and systems.
Construction Products Regulation (CPR) 305/2011: Fire performance for cables used in buildings; expect CPR-rated cabling with Euroclass markings.
ATEX 2014/34/EU: Equipment used in explosive atmospheres (important for some industrial sites).
Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and upcoming Machinery Regulation 2023/1230: Integration with machines and safety interlocks.
Romanian standards: SR EN/HD 60364 series and the I7 Normative for design and execution of low voltage installations.

Tool and test instrument compliance

Hand tools for live work: ensure IEC 60900 compliance and 1000 V rated insulation. Look for CE marking and reputable brands.
Test equipment: multimeters and installation testers should meet IEC 61010 and be suitable for measuring RCDs, insulation resistance at 500 V, and loop impedance on 230/400 V networks.
Labels and documentation: CE marking and conformity documents will be checked on larger sites. Keep calibration certificates available for audits.

Salary & Benefits

Romanian electrician salaries vary by city, specialization, and employer. The figures below are realistic ranges as of recent market conditions. For conversion, 1 EUR is roughly 5 RON. Net pay depends on taxes and contributions.

Monthly net salary ranges (employee roles)

Residential/service electrician: 4,000 to 6,500 RON net (about 800 to 1,300 EUR).
Commercial electrician (large sites): 5,000 to 7,500 RON net (1,000 to 1,500 EUR).
Industrial/automation electrician: 6,500 to 10,000 RON net (1,300 to 2,000 EUR), higher for PLC experience.
BMS/KNX technician or commissioning specialist: 6,000 to 9,500 RON net (1,200 to 1,900 EUR).
Team leader/site supervisor: 8,000 to 12,000 RON net (1,600 to 2,400 EUR), sometimes more on complex projects in Bucharest.

Project-based and overtime

Hourly rates for on-call or project-based electricians: 30 to 60 RON per hour (6 to 12 EUR), higher for night shifts or urgent work.
Overtime pay: commonly 125% for overtime, 200% for public holidays, and allowances for night work. Exact terms depend on your contract and collective agreements.

Benefits you can expect

Meal vouchers (bonuri de masa): typically 30 to 40 RON per workday, paid as electronic vouchers.
Transport allowance or company shuttle to sites outside the city.
Accommodation and per diem (diurna) for out-of-town projects.
Safety gear and tools. Many employers provide major tools and testers; personal hand tools are often your own.
Training and certifications: employers may sponsor ANRE exams, KNX partner training, and vendor courses.
Health insurance: standard state coverage via contributions; some employers add private medical plans.
Paid leave: typically at least 20 working days per year, plus public holidays.

Taxes and social contributions (overview)

Employee contributions: approximately 25% pension (CAS) and 10% health (CASS) withheld from gross salary, plus a 10% income tax applied to taxable base.
Employer contributions: around 2.25% labor insurance.
Net from gross: as a rough guide, a gross salary of 8,000 RON yields a net around 4,700 to 5,100 RON, depending on personal deductions. Use a Romania salary calculator for precise figures.

Cost of Living

Your costs will depend on city and lifestyle. Below are realistic monthly ranges for a single professional.

Housing

Bucharest: 1-bedroom apartment in a central or semi-central area rents for 450 to 700 EUR. 2-bedroom flats are 650 to 1,000 EUR.
Cluj-Napoca: 1-bedroom at 400 to 650 EUR; 2-bedroom at 600 to 900 EUR.
Timisoara: 1-bedroom at 350 to 550 EUR; 2-bedroom at 500 to 800 EUR.
Iasi: 1-bedroom at 300 to 500 EUR; 2-bedroom at 450 to 750 EUR.
Deposits: usually 1 to 2 months' rent, plus first month upfront. Contracts should be registered with the tax authority by the landlord.

Utilities and internet

Utilities (electricity, water, gas, waste) for a small apartment: 80 to 150 EUR monthly, higher in winter if gas heating.
Internet and TV: 8 to 15 EUR for high-speed fiber in most cities.
Mobile phone plan: 6 to 15 EUR for generous data and calls.

Transportation

Bucharest: monthly public transport pass (surface + metro) around 25 to 35 EUR. Rideshare is affordable. Traffic can be heavy.
Other cities: monthly transit passes around 12 to 25 EUR.
Fuel: often around 1.6 to 1.8 EUR per liter. Road vignette (rovinieta) is required for national roads outside cities.

Food and daily expenses

Groceries for one person: 150 to 300 EUR, depending on preferences.
Eating out: a casual lunch is 6 to 10 EUR; a nicer dinner 12 to 25 EUR per person.
Gym membership: 25 to 50 EUR monthly.

Sample monthly budgets (single)

Bucharest: 1,000 to 1,500 EUR total (mid-range rent, utilities, transport, food, and extras).
Cluj-Napoca: 850 to 1,300 EUR.
Timisoara: 800 to 1,200 EUR.
Iasi: 750 to 1,100 EUR.

Families will spend more on rent and childcare. International schools in Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca can be significantly more expensive; local public schools are free but Romanian language is required.

Cultural Integration

Language

Romanian is the official language. In large cities and on international projects, many engineers and site managers speak English. However, technicians and subcontractors may prefer Romanian, especially on fast-paced job sites. Learning basic Romanian accelerates your integration and helps with ANRE exams, safety briefings, and site coordination.

Useful site phrases:

Buna ziua: Hello
Va rog: Please
Multumesc: Thank you
Faza, nul, pamant: Phase, neutral, earth
Intrerupator diferential: Residual current device (RCD)
Plan de santier: Site plan

Workplace culture

Punctuality matters. Arrive on time for site inductions and toolbox talks.
Safety first. SSM (work safety) briefings are routine. PPE is mandatory.
Documentation is taken seriously. Method statements, test sheets, and as-built drawings must be accurate.
Respect hierarchy but be proactive. Site supervisors value initiative, especially if you propose code-compliant solutions.
Lunch is often a social break. Expect a friendly atmosphere; relationships help projects run smoothly.

Professional communities

KNX community and certified partners operate in major cities. KNX training centers run regular courses in Romania.
Romania Green Building Council hosts events on energy efficiency and building innovation.
Industry trade fairs in Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca showcase tools, PV solutions, EV chargers, and smart building technologies.

Practical Steps to Relocate

Here is a step-by-step plan from decision to first day on site.

Define your target city and sector

Choose based on your specialization. BMS and commercial high-rises are strongest in Bucharest; industrial automation in Timisoara; mixed opportunities in Cluj-Napoca and Iasi.

Map your skill gaps

For smart building roles, consider KNX Partner certification, DALI commissioning, and basic IP networking.
Ensure your test instruments meet EU standards. Plan to calibrate them in Romania if needed.

Prepare documents

Passport valid for at least 1 year.
Diplomas and trade certificates, with certified translations into Romanian.
Employment references detailing tasks and voltage levels.
Criminal record certificate from your home country (recent issue), apostilled/legalized if required.
Health insurance for the visa stage.

Start job search and networking

Target Romanian contractors and integrators. Check careers pages for EnergoBit, Electromontaj, Elsaco, Schneider Electric Romania, Siemens, Honeywell, and major general contractors.
Update your LinkedIn profile with keywords like KNX, BMS, BACnet, Modbus, PLC, testing and commissioning, and ANRE.
Join Romanian electrician and smart building groups online. Introduce yourself and ask about current projects.

Secure a job offer

Be ready to discuss salary in RON gross. Clarify benefits, travel allowances, and training support for ANRE authorization.
Request a written offer that the employer will sponsor your work authorization if you are a non-EU citizen.

Immigration process (non-EU)

Employer applies for the work authorization at IGI.
After approval, apply for the D/AM visa at the Romanian consulate.
Travel to Romania, sign your employment contract, and apply for your residence permit. Attend the biometrics appointment at IGI.

Housing and settling in

Look for rentals via local platforms and agents. Ask about energy bills, heating type, and commute to your site.
Open a Romanian bank account once you have your residence documentation.

ANRE authorization plan

Enroll in an ANRE exam session for the appropriate grade (e.g., Grade II A for low voltage execution). Coordinate with your employer for study materials and exam leave.
Attend safety training (SSM), fire safety induction (PSI), and first aid if your employer offers it.

Start work and build your local track record

Keep a log of projects, roles, test results, and any commissioning documents you produce. This helps with ANRE renewals and future promotions.

Upskill in smart building systems

Take KNX Partner courses, vendor-specific BMS training, and IP networking fundamentals.
Practice with DALI addressing, BACnet device discovery, and Modbus registers. Create your own lab if possible.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Romanian electrical standards and codes

Challenge: Differences between your home country and Romanian standards can cause confusion, especially on conductor sizing, protection, and documentation.
Solution: Study the I7 Normative and SR HD 60364 series. Use Romanian-language technical terms in your notes so you are fluent on site. Ask your company for the latest standard references.

Voltage and frequency differences

Challenge: If you come from 120/240 V, 60 Hz environments, 230/400 V at 50 Hz changes cable sizing, protection, and fault calculations.
Solution: Relearn standard circuit parameters for 50 Hz, understand TN-S/TN-C-S earthing systems common in Romania, and refresh selectivity and RCD coordination methods.

Tool and equipment certification

Challenge: Bringing tools that do not meet EU standards can cause compliance issues or site rejection.
Solution: Verify CE marking and standards like IEC 60900 for insulated tools and IEC 61010 for testers. Replace or calibrate where needed.

Language and documentation

Challenge: Work logs, site instructions, and test sheets are often in Romanian.
Solution: Learn key technical vocabulary and request bilingual templates where possible. Pair with a local colleague early on.

Navigating ANRE

Challenge: Understanding which ANRE grade fits your role and preparing for exams in Romanian.
Solution: Ask your employer to assign a mentor who has recently passed the ANRE exam. Use past exam topics, attend prep courses, and practice with Romanian standards.

Smart Building Systems: Essential Skills and Tools

To stand out in Romania's market, combine strong electrical fundamentals with digital integration skills.

Core electrical competencies

Accurate cable sizing, voltage drop calculations, and short-circuit analysis per SR HD 60364.
Protective devices selection: MCB, MCCB, RCD (AC, A, F, B types), selectivity and discrimination.
Earthing and bonding for TN, TT systems; lightning protection integration with building earthing.
Commissioning tests: insulation resistance, continuity, loop impedance, RCD trip times, functional testing, and compliant documentation.

Building automation and control

KNX: topology, power supplies, line couplers, addressing, ETS configuration, group addresses, and scenes.
DALI: addressing, groups and scenes, emergency lighting integration, fault diagnostics.
BMS: BACnet device instances, MSTP vs BACnet/IP, Modbus RTU vs TCP, gateway devices, trend logs, alarms, and graphics.
HVAC integration: temperature sensors, actuators, VAV control, and coordination with mechanical teams.

Industrial and energy systems

PLC basics: ladder logic reading, digital and analog I/O, commissioning VFDs, and safety relays.
PV systems: string design, combiner boxes, DC isolators, inverters, and AC tie-in to main distribution board; grid codes and anti-islanding.
EV charging: AC and DC chargers, load management, protective devices, and backend communications.

Digital and networking literacy

IP addressing, subnets, and VLAN concepts for OT networks.
PoE power classes for cameras and access control devices.
Cybersecurity hygiene: default passwords, network segmentation, and firmware updates in BMS/IoT devices.

Recommended toolset for Romania

Installation tester capable of insulation, RCD, and loop tests compliant with EU standards.
True-RMS multimeter and clamp meter suitable for harmonics.
KNX USB/IP interface and ETS software license for commissioning.
Laptop with BACnet and Modbus tools for diagnostics.
Label printer for panel and cable labeling per standards.
Calibrated torque screwdriver/wrench for terminals and busbars.
Personal PPE: 1000 V gloves, arc-rated clothing as required by site, safety harness if working at height.

Real-World Opportunities in Romania

Residential smart retrofits

Demand is rising for smart lighting, thermostats, and security integrations in mid- to high-end apartments and houses. Electricians with KNX experience or hybrid solutions (e.g., KNX backbone with app-based devices) can price attractive retrofit packages.

Commercial fit-outs

Office fit-outs in Bucharest require integration skills: access control, structured cabling, DALI lighting, and BMS tie-ins. Companies expect electricians who can coordinate with IT teams on networked devices and complete commissioning reports on time.

Factory and logistics automation

In Timisoara and the western corridor, multinational manufacturers need electricians who can read schematics, wire control panels, commission drives, and assist controls engineers. Knowledge of safety circuits and lockout/tagout is essential.

Renewable energy and prosumers

Romania supports prosumer PV systems, and many homeowners and businesses are installing rooftop arrays. Electricians who understand inverters, anti-islanding protection, DC cable management, and compliant AC tie-in can build steady pipelines of work.

EV charging infrastructure

Retail parks, office buildings, and residential complexes are adding chargers. Electricians who can perform load calculations, integrate with building load management, and commission OCPP-based systems are in demand.

Success Tips from Other Expats

Learn Romanian technical terms early. Even if you speak English on site, reading standards and test sheets in Romanian saves time.
Pursue ANRE Grade II A soon after arrival if you focus on low voltage execution. It validates your status and improves pay potential.
Create a commissioning portfolio. Keep PDFs of test results and photos of panels and labeling you delivered. Employers value tangible proof.
Network locally. Join trade events in Bucharest or Cluj-Napoca and introduce yourself to integrators and vendors.
Align your tools with EU norms before day one. It avoids delays and helps pass site audits.
Be meticulous with documentation. Romanian inspectors and project managers appreciate clean, complete test reports and as-builts.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Romania is a strong destination for electricians who want to grow in smart buildings, industrial automation, and renewable energy. EU-aligned standards, expanding construction, and increasing investment in efficiency and electrification create steady demand. With the right preparation - ANRE authorization, familiarity with Romanian standards, and upskilling in KNX, DALI, and BMS - you can build a rewarding career and lifestyle in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, Iasi, and beyond.

If you are ready to take the next step, start by shortlisting cities, refreshing your tools and certifications to EU standards, and reaching out to Romanian contractors and integrators. Put your experience to work where smart building systems are becoming the new normal.

FAQ

1) Do I need to speak Romanian to work as an electrician in Romania?

Not always, but it helps. In multinational environments, English is common, especially with engineers and managers. However, site communications, safety briefings, and documentation can be in Romanian. For ANRE authorization, exams and materials are in Romanian. Learning key technical terms improves safety, speed, and career growth.

2) Can I work before obtaining ANRE authorization?

You can be hired and work under supervision on tasks that do not require you to sign off as the responsible electrician. However, for many categories of work, especially execution and verification, an ANRE-authorized individual must be responsible. Plan to sit for the relevant ANRE exam (often Grade II A for low voltage execution) within the first months of employment.

3) How long does the non-EU work permit process take?

From job offer to residence card, allow 2 to 4 months. The employer's work authorization typically takes 30 to 45 days. The D/AM visa can take 10 to 30 days, and the residence permit after arrival another several weeks. Start early and ensure all documents are properly translated and legalized where required.

4) What tools should I bring, and what should I buy locally?

Bring your favorite hand tools and any specialty items, but make sure they are CE-marked and compliant with IEC 60900 for live-rated tools. For test instruments, ensure IEC 61010 compliance. Many contractors supply heavy tools and installers, and you can source EU-compliant testers from Romanian distributors if calibration or replacement is needed.

5) Are my 120 V, 60 Hz skills transferable to Romania's 230/400 V, 50 Hz systems?

Yes, core electrician skills transfer well, but you must adjust calculations and protection choices. Learn EU color codes (brown/black/gray phases, blue neutral, green-yellow earth), RCD types and coordination, short-circuit and voltage drop criteria per SR HD 60364, and earthing systems common in Romania. Practice with 50 Hz specific test procedures.

6) How popular is KNX in Romania, and should I get certified?

KNX is widely used in residential and commercial projects, especially in mid- and high-end developments. KNX Partner certification is a strong advantage for roles in smart buildings. It signals to employers that you can design, program, and commission robust automation solutions.

7) Can my spouse work in Romania?

EU spouses can work freely. For non-EU families, the spouse will typically enter under family reunification. Depending on the permit type, they may also work or may need a separate work authorization. Confirm with IGI before arrival.

8) Do I need a Romanian bank account?

Most employers pay salaries into a Romanian bank account in RON. You can open one after you have residence documentation. Some banks accept a passport and proof of address for account opening; ask your employer which banks they recommend.

9) How are overtime and night shifts paid?

Romanian Labor Code provides supplements for overtime, night shifts, and work on public holidays. Overtime is often compensated at 125% or with time off, night shifts at a legally defined extra, and holidays at 200%. Your contract should specify exact rates and conditions.

10) Can I work as self-employed or open a company?

Yes. Many technicians operate as PFA (authorized natural person) or set up an SRL (limited liability company). For electrical works requiring sign-off, you still need the appropriate ANRE authorization. Setting up an SRL is straightforward and can be done in a few days with a local accountant's help.

11) What are common on-site inspections and tests in Romania?

Expect inspections focused on cable routing and labeling, earthing and bonding, proper selection of protective devices, and commissioning reports. PRAM tests (insulation, continuity, earth resistance, and lightning protection checks) are routinely requested. Keep your test sheets professional and aligned with Romanian standards.

12) Which Romanian cities should I prioritize if I specialize in BMS?

Bucharest has the highest concentration of large BMS projects, followed by Cluj-Napoca and Timisoara. Iasi is growing with institutional and office projects. Apply to integrators and general contractors active in these markets and mention specific platforms you know, such as EcoStruxure, Desigo, or Metasys.