Subcontracting and Freelance Electrical Work Internationally

Introduction

If you are a professional electrician looking to turn your skills into an independent, flexible career across borders, Romania deserves a serious look. As an EU member with strong demand for electrical and construction services, Romania offers a compelling mix of opportunity, affordability, and access to the wider European market. For Global electricians exploring subcontracting or freelance work abroad, Romania can be both a strategic landing zone and a base for long-term entrepreneurship.

This guide is designed for experienced electricians who want specific, actionable advice. We will cover how subcontractors and freelancers operate in Romania, how to earn and invoice legally, which certifications and authorizations you need (especially ANRE authorization), how to comply with Romanian and EU rules (including the EU Low Voltage Directive), and practical steps to get started. We will also compare earnings and costs, highlight in-demand niches such as renewable energy and smart buildings, and explain how to navigate visas, residence, and business setup for Global citizens.

Whether you envision independent projects in Bucharest high-rises, solar PV installations in Cluj-Napoca, industrial maintenance in Timisoara, or smart building automation in Iasi, this guide gives you a roadmap to work and live well in Romania while building a sustainable subcontracting business.

Why Romania?

Romania combines serious demand for electrical professionals with a cost of living that is lower than many Western European countries, and offers direct access to the EU market.

Key advantages include:

EU membership and standards alignment: Romania is in the European Union, which means alignment with EU directives such as the Low Voltage Directive (2014/35/EU), EMC Directive (2014/30/EU), and Machinery Directive (2006/42/EC). This simplifies equipment selection, compliance, and cross-border contracting.
Competitive earnings with lower costs: Experienced electricians can command strong rates relative to local expenses. Compared to many Western European countries, rent, utilities, transport, and food are significantly cheaper.
Growing demand across sectors: Residential construction, industrial automation, renewable energy, data centers, logistics parks, and commercial refurbishments all require skilled electricians. The national push for energy efficiency and smart technologies adds new demand.
Gateway to the European market: From Romania, you can subcontract to EU clients, collaborate with multinationals operating locally, and build a portfolio that travels with you across Europe.
Quality of life and work-life balance: Vibrant cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi offer good healthcare options, lively cultural scenes, and international communities, while smaller cities and towns provide peace and lower costs.

Job Market Overview

Romania's electrical labor market is buoyed by steady construction activity, industrial investments, and increasing renewable energy deployment. Independent electricians can find work through general contractors, EPCs (engineering, procurement, construction firms), facility owners, and specialized subcontractors.

High-potential areas:

Renewable energy installations

Rooftop and ground-mounted solar PV: Prosumer growth, commercial rooftops, logistics park arrays, and municipal projects.
Small wind and hybrid systems: Niche but present in off-grid or remote applications.
Battery storage and microgrids: Emerging with commercial and industrial clients who want resilience and cost savings.
EV charging infrastructure: Fast-growing in retail, residential complexes, office parks, and highway service areas.

Industrial automation and maintenance

Automotive, electronics, and food processing clusters require PLC wiring, MCCs, VFDs, control panel integration, and regular maintenance.
Predictive maintenance and thermography services are increasingly valued in factories and warehouses.

Residential construction and refurbishment

New apartment blocks, single-family homes, and renovations: Consumer demand for safe rewires, distribution board upgrades, surge protection, and energy-efficient lighting.
Smart home retrofits: KNX, Zigbee, and other automation platforms.

Commercial and public sector projects

Office fit-outs, hotels, hospitals, schools, data centers, and retail units across major cities.
Smart building systems and BMS integration, access control, CCTV, and fire detection systems.

Specialized and niche work

Hazardous area installations (ATEX) in certain industrial facilities.
PRAM testing (protective measures verification), RCD testing, and grounding system audits.
Lightning protection installation and testing.

Typical employers and clients for subcontractors:

Electrical contractors and EPCs: From mid-sized Romanian firms to local branches of multinationals.
Construction companies: General contractors looking to subcontract electrical packages.
Industrial facilities: Factories and logistics centers hiring for shutdowns, turnarounds, or long-term maintenance.
Renewable energy developers: PV installers, EPCs, and O&M providers across the country.
Property managers: Residential complexes and commercial landlords needing ongoing service contracts.

Where to focus geographically:

Bucharest: The most active construction market, numerous commercial projects, data centers, and premium residential developments.
Cluj-Napoca: Strong tech sector, commercial construction, and renewable energy integrators.
Timisoara: Industrial hub with automotive suppliers and electronics manufacturers; cross-border links with Western Europe.
Iasi: Growing public sector, education, healthcare projects, and expanding residential demand.

Legal Requirements

Your legal pathway depends on your citizenship and whether you plan to work as an employee, subcontractor, or fully independent business owner.

For EU/EEA/Swiss citizens

No entry visa or work permit required.
Register your residence: Obtain a registration certificate from the territorial office of the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) if staying more than 3 months.
Start a business or work as a freelancer: You can set up as a sole trader (PFA) or create a limited liability company (SRL). Registration is done with ONRC (National Trade Register Office).
Tax and social contributions: Register with ANAF (tax authority), choose your tax regime, and comply with social insurance rules.

For non-EU/EEA citizens

If you aim to be employed:

Employer obtains a work permit: A Romanian employer applies for your work authorization with IGI. Once approved, you apply for a long-stay visa for employment at a Romanian consulate.
Long-stay visa for employment: After issuance, enter Romania and start work per the permit conditions.
Residence permit: Apply for a residence permit (permis de sedere) with IGI within the legal timeframe after entry.

If you aim to operate independently or run your own company:

Company setup route: Many non-EU electricians establish an SRL and act as administrator and shareholder. Depending on your business plan, you may apply for a long-stay visa for commercial activities. Requirements can include proof of investment, a business plan, and company registration documents. After entry, apply for a residence permit for commercial activities.
Self-employed route (PFA): Typically available once you already have a right of residence. In practice, many non-EU nationals start with an SRL, then consider PFA after securing residence rights.

Other routes to consider:

EU Blue Card: Available for highly qualified employment if you meet salary and qualification thresholds. This is generally employer-driven, not freelancer-driven.
Posted worker: If you are employed by a foreign company and posted to Romania for a project, your employer handles posting formalities.

Important notes for non-EU citizens:

Timelines: Work permits and visas can take several weeks to a few months. Plan ahead and avoid committing to start dates you cannot meet.
Documentation: Expect to provide apostilled diplomas, criminal record checks, employment contracts or business plans, proof of accommodation, and health insurance.
Local compliance: After arrival, comply with IGI reporting, residence permits, and any business registration steps.

Always confirm current requirements with IGI and the Romanian consulate in your country, as regulations and categories can change.

Certification & License Recognition

Romania regulates electrical work through ANRE (Autoritatea Nationala de Reglementare in domeniul Energiei). As an independent electrician, you must understand both personal authorizations and company-level certifications.

ANRE electrician authorization (individual)

ANRE authorizes electricians at Grades I to IV, with subcategories A (design) and B (execution). In general terms:

Grade I A/B: Low voltage installations (typically up to 1 kV). A is design, B is execution.
Grade II A/B: Medium voltage installations. A is design, B is execution.
Grade III A/B: Complex systems such as substations or higher complexity works, with A for design and B for execution.
Grade IV A/B: Higher-level authorization, including verification and specialized activities, again split into design and execution.

What this means in practice:

For residential and most commercial low voltage work, Grade I B is commonly required, sometimes with I A if you perform design.
For PV systems tied to the grid, higher-grade authorizations may be needed depending on the scope and grid interface. Many PV projects also require that the installer or company be ANRE-accredited as an economic operator for design and execution.
For industrial work or medium voltage interfaces, Grade II or higher is often necessary.

How to obtain ANRE authorization:

Eligibility: Documented experience, relevant technical education or qualifications, and references. Designers typically need engineering-level studies.
Application: Submit to ANRE the application form, diplomas, proof of experience, identification documents, and pay the fees.
Examination: Written and/or oral exams covering Romanian standards (aligned with EN/IEC 60364 series), safety procedures, and practical scenarios.
Language: Exams and technical materials are primarily in Romanian. Many foreign electricians choose to work under an ANRE-authorized colleague or a company while preparing language and exam requirements.
Renewal: Authorizations must be renewed periodically, with evidence of continued practice and training.

Company-level ANRE accreditation

Beyond individual authorization, companies that design or execute electrical installations often need ANRE accreditation as economic operators. This accreditation demonstrates that the company has qualified staff, procedures, and equipment to design and build electrical installations.

If you operate as an SRL with employees or collaborators, securing company accreditation can expand the range of projects you are eligible to deliver as a prime subcontractor.
For smaller freelancers, partnering with an accredited company is a practical way to work legally on larger projects while you build your own capacity.

EU directives and standards you must know

Low Voltage Directive (2014/35/EU): Applies to electrical equipment designed for use within certain voltage limits. Ensures safety and CE marking of equipment.
EMC Directive (2014/30/EU): Limits electromagnetic disturbance from equipment and ensures immunity to interference.
Machinery Directive (2006/42/EC): Relevant when integrating machines and control systems.
Harmonized standards: EN 60364 (electrical installations of buildings), EN 61439 (low-voltage switchgear and controlgear assemblies), EN 60204-1 (safety of machinery - electrical equipment), and EN 50539/EN 62446 for PV systems.

Romanian standards and safety rules

Romanian standards largely align with EN/IEC standards and are adopted as SR EN standards. Site inspectors and clients expect compliance with these references.
Occupational health and safety: Law 319/2006 and related regulations require SSM (workplace health and safety) training, risk assessments, and use of appropriate PPE.
Fire safety: PSI training and compliance with fire detection and alarm standards are mandatory on many sites.
PRAM testing: Romania emphasizes periodic verification of protective measures, including earth resistance, continuity of protective conductors, and RCD trip testing. Ensure you have access to calibrated instruments and understand reporting formats.

Recognition of foreign qualifications

Formal diplomas: Non-Romanian diplomas may need recognition by Romanian authorities for certain authorization categories, especially design roles. This often involves authenticated translations and, for non-EU diplomas, recognition procedures.
Experience: Document your experience with detailed reference letters, project descriptions, and proof of roles and responsibilities. These are valuable in ANRE applications and when negotiating with clients.

Salary & Benefits

Earnings in Romania depend on your business model, specialization, and city. Subcontractors and freelancers generally earn more per hour than employees, but have variable workload, tax obligations, and business overheads.

Indicative earnings (as of 2025-2026, 1 EUR ~ 5 RON):

Employed electricians (net monthly):
- Junior to mid-level: 3,500 - 6,000 RON (700 - 1,200 EUR)
- Senior/industrial: 6,000 - 10,000 RON (1,200 - 2,000 EUR)
- Site supervisors/foremen: 7,500 - 12,000 RON (1,500 - 2,400 EUR)
Freelance/subcontractor rates:
- Hourly on residential/commercial low voltage: 60 - 150 RON (12 - 30 EUR)
- Daily on industrial or large commercial projects: 350 - 900 RON (70 - 180 EUR)
- Specialized services (thermography, commissioning, BMS integration, ATEX): 150 - 300 RON per hour (30 - 60 EUR)
Renewable energy premiums:
- PV installation and commissioning can attract higher day rates, especially if you provide design and testing reports under ANRE authorization.

Benefits beyond cash:

Lower living costs allow you to retain more of your earnings compared to Western Europe.
Access to EU clients and projects helps you build a robust portfolio and command better rates over time.
Many contractors provide tools or reimburse consumables. Clarify this in your contract.

Negotiation tips:

Quote by scope, not only time: Offer fixed-price packages for standard tasks (e.g., apartment rewiring, distribution board upgrade, EV charger installation).
Charge for mobilization and testing: Include travel, commissioning, and PRAM test reports as line items.
Clarify VAT treatment early: Discuss whether your client requires VAT-included invoices and whether reverse-charge applies for EU cross-border services.

Cost of Living

Romania's cost of living varies by city, with Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca typically the most expensive among the major hubs. Overall, costs remain friendly to contractor margins compared to many EU countries.

Housing (monthly rent):

Bucharest: 1-bedroom 450 - 800 EUR; 2-bedroom 650 - 1,100 EUR
Cluj-Napoca: 1-bedroom 400 - 700 EUR; 2-bedroom 600 - 1,000 EUR
Timisoara: 1-bedroom 350 - 600 EUR; 2-bedroom 500 - 850 EUR
Iasi: 1-bedroom 320 - 550 EUR; 2-bedroom 450 - 800 EUR

Utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet):

90 - 180 EUR per month for a typical apartment, depending on season and usage.

Transportation:

Public transport monthly pass: 80 - 120 RON (16 - 24 EUR) in major cities.
Fuel: Approximately 1.5 - 1.8 EUR per liter.
Ride-hailing: Competitive in large cities, useful for site-to-site movement.

Food and daily expenses:

Groceries: 150 - 300 EUR per month per person, depending on diet.
Lunch out: 6 - 12 EUR; coffee: 2 - 4 EUR.
Mobile plan: 5 - 12 EUR per month for generous data packages.

Insurance and healthcare:

Public healthcare contributions apply if employed or registered as self-employed. Many freelancers add private health insurance for faster access to clinics; budget 20 - 60 EUR per month depending on coverage.

Tools, equipment, and consumables:

Expect competitive prices for EU-certified tools. Your specialty gear (insulation testers, multifunction testers for PRAM, thermal cameras) may cost similarly to other EU markets.

Overall contractor budget example (Bucharest):

Shared 2-bedroom rent: 400 EUR
Utilities and internet: 120 EUR
Transport: 25 EUR
Food and daily expenses: 250 EUR
Insurance and phone: 60 EUR
Total: ~855 EUR per month baseline, leaving significant room for savings at mid-level freelance rates.

Cultural Integration

Working well in Romania requires some cultural fluency and basic language comfort, especially on construction sites.

Language basics:

Romanian is the working language on most sites. Many clients and engineers in major cities speak English, but site crews may prefer Romanian.
Learn key site and safety vocabulary: breaker, fuse, conduit, earth, neutral, live, RCD, PPE, ladder, shutdown, permit to work, etc. Even a beginner level will increase your efficiency and safety.

Workplace culture:

Punctuality and reliability are valued. If you are running late or facing delays, call ahead and propose realistic alternatives.
Hierarchy exists in larger companies, but small contractors are pragmatic. Be respectful to site managers and inspectors.
Paperwork matters: Site logs, SSM forms, PRAM test reports, and as-built documentation are taken seriously.
Safety first: Use PPE, follow lockout/tagout where applicable, and do not cut corners on energized work.

Networking and reputation:

Word-of-mouth is powerful. Deliver on time, document well, and follow up after project handover.
Join local groups and associations. Online communities and trade groups can lead to steady subcontract work.

Practical Steps to Relocate

Follow this step-by-step roadmap to transition into subcontracting or freelance electrical work in Romania.

Map your services and niche

Decide your focus: residential rewires, commercial fit-outs, PV installation, industrial maintenance, commissioning, BMS, EV chargers, PRAM testing, or a mix.
List the tools and certifications you already have and identify gaps relative to Romanian and EU norms.

Validate compliance requirements

ANRE: Determine which ANRE authorization grade you need. If you lack Romanian language proficiency, plan to partner with an ANRE-authorized colleague or company at first.
Safety certifications: Prepare to complete SSM and PSI trainings locally.
Equipment standards: Ensure your tools are CE-marked and suitable for 230/400 V, 50 Hz systems. Bring calibration certificates for test instruments.

Plan your legal status and company structure

EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: Choose between PFA (sole trader) or SRL (limited liability company). PFA is simple for single operators; SRL is better for growth, liability protection, and hiring.
Non-EU citizens: Consider forming an SRL and applying for a residence permit linked to commercial activities. Consult an immigration lawyer for up-to-date routes and document requirements.

ONRC: Reserve your company name and register your PFA or SRL. Draft your business scope to include electrical installation, maintenance, commissioning, and related services.
ANAF: Register for tax, select your tax regime, and evaluate VAT registration. Many B2B clients expect VAT invoices. VAT is generally 19%.
e-Invoicing: Romania uses RO e-Factura for B2B e-invoicing. Ensure your invoicing software and accountant are set up for compliance.

Sort your taxes and contributions

PFA taxation: Typically 10% income tax on net income, plus social security (CAS) and health insurance (CASS) contributions depending on income thresholds.
SRL taxation: Microenterprise regimes may apply based on turnover and employees. Corporate tax or micro tax can be beneficial, and dividends carry a separate tax. These rules change periodically; engage a local accountant.

Get insured and set up banking

Professional liability insurance: Many clients and contractors require proof of coverage.
Accident and health insurance: Protect yourself against site accidents and downtime.
Business bank account: Necessary for SRL invoicing and expenses.

Prepare your ANRE path

Gather diplomas, translated and authenticated where required.
Document your experience with letters, project lists, and references.
Enroll in preparatory courses if needed and schedule your exam.
Meanwhile, collaborate under an ANRE-accredited company to build local references.

Build your Romanian presence

Translate your CV and capability statement. Create a one-page services sheet in English and Romanian.
Set up a simple website and LinkedIn profile highlighting Romanian projects and ANRE compliance.
Join local tender portals or contractor networks. Reach out to electrical contractors in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi.

Line up initial contracts

Offer pilot projects at a fair rate to secure your first local references.
Target segments with strong demand: PV installations, apartment rewires, office fit-outs, and EV charger installations.
Consider alliances: Pair with a general contractor to handle full MEP packages while you lead the electrical scope.

Relocate logistics

Housing: Secure short-term accommodation first, then move to longer-term rental.
Transport: Consider a van if you will carry tools between sites. Ensure your driving license is valid in Romania.
Tools: Bring key tools, but price heavy items locally to avoid excessive shipping costs.

Compliance on site

Complete SSM and PSI inductions with each client.
Use a standard method statement and risk assessment template.
Keep calibration certificates and PRAM test equipment ready for inspections.

Grow and optimize

Add services like thermography, energy audits, or smart home programming to increase margins.
Hire or subcontract within your SRL as workload increases.
Pursue company-level ANRE accreditation to bid larger scopes.

Success Tips

Start with a city that matches your niche: For commercial and tech-related work, Cluj-Napoca has strong demand; for industrial work, Timisoara offers excellent opportunities; for broad project volume and corporate clients, Bucharest is ideal; for stable public and residential projects, consider Iasi.
Partner early: Team up with established ANRE-accredited firms to access larger contracts while your own authorizations are in progress.
Over-communicate documentation: Romanian clients value clear PRAM reports, as-built drawings, and commissioning certificates. Deliver immaculate documentation to stand out.
Learn the essentials of Romanian: Even basic site language increases your productivity and reduces errors.
Price for sustainability: Avoid underbidding. Include travel, testing, and warranty service in your pricing. Cheap bids lead to unsustainable workloads.
Calibrate and certify: Keep test equipment calibration up to date. Show certificates proactively.
Build a local supplier network: Work with trusted wholesalers for cable, breakers, conduits, and panels. Negotiate discounts for volume and timely payments.
Respect safety culture: Wear PPE, follow lockout procedures, and do not energize incomplete systems. Your reputation depends on it.

Common Challenges and How to Manage Them

Romanian standards and codes: Even though Romania aligns with EN standards, local interpretations and documentation formats may differ. Mitigation: Study SR EN references, request example reports from clients, and cross-check with an ANRE-authorized mentor.
Voltage and frequency: Romania uses 230/400 V at 50 Hz. If you come from a 110/60 market, adapt your tooling and materials accordingly. Ensure all equipment is CE-marked and rated for local systems.
Tool certification and CE marking: Non-CE tools or accessories can be rejected on site. Mitigation: Use CE-compliant gear and keep manuals and declarations of conformity.
Language barrier: Technical communication can be tricky. Mitigation: Learn key terms, carry bilingual templates, and pair with a Romanian-speaking colleague for client meetings.
Invoicing and VAT: Misunderstanding VAT rules can delay payments. Mitigation: Work with an accountant and confirm VAT status and e-invoicing format with every client before starting.
Seasonal demand: Construction slows in mid-winter. Mitigation: Book preventive maintenance and indoor refurbishments during slower months.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Romania offers a unique blend of opportunity, affordability, and European market access for independent electricians. With ANRE authorization, alignment to EU standards, and a practical business setup, you can build a successful subcontracting or freelance practice serving residential, commercial, industrial, and renewable sectors. The key is to plan your legal status, get your certifications in order, partner strategically, and deliver work with impeccable documentation and safety.

If you are ready to move from interest to action, start by mapping your services to Romania's market needs, speak with an immigration consultant and a local accountant, and contact two to three ANRE-accredited contractors in your target city. Your next contract in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, or Iasi could be the first step in a thriving European electrical business.

FAQ

Do I need ANRE authorization to work as a freelance electrician in Romania?

For most professional electrical activities, yes. Individuals performing design or execution typically need ANRE authorization at the suitable grade and category. If you are not yet authorized, you can collaborate under the umbrella of an ANRE-accredited company while you prepare for your own authorization.

I am a non-EU citizen. Can I work in Romania as a self-employed electrician?

Yes, but you need the correct immigration path. Many non-EU electricians establish an SRL and apply for a residence permit linked to commercial activities. Self-employed registration (PFA) is generally possible once you have residence rights. Seek personalized advice from IGI and an immigration lawyer, as documentation and eligibility can change.

Is my foreign electrical license recognized in Romania?

Romania will assess your qualifications for ANRE authorization and may require document recognition and Romanian-language exams. Even if your home-country license is respected, you often still must obtain ANRE authorization to sign off on designs or execution locally. Bring detailed evidence of your training and experience.

What electrical standards are used in Romania?

Romania follows EU directives and harmonized standards such as EN 60364 for electrical installations. Romanian adoptions are published as SR EN standards. Safety, documentation, and PRAM testing are widely enforced.

What are typical freelance rates in Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca?

Many freelancers charge 60 - 150 RON (12 - 30 EUR) per hour for standard low voltage tasks. Day rates on larger commercial or industrial projects range from 350 - 900 RON (70 - 180 EUR), with premiums for specialized services like commissioning, thermography, or ATEX.

Should I set up as a PFA or SRL?

PFA is simpler for a single operator with straightforward workloads. SRL offers liability protection, easier scaling, and broader client acceptance, especially for larger contracts and public tenders. Tax treatments differ; consult a local accountant to run scenarios based on your projected revenue and costs.

How does VAT work for subcontractors?

The standard VAT rate is 19%. You may need to register for VAT depending on your turnover and client expectations. For intra-EU B2B services, reverse charge rules may apply. Romania also uses RO e-Factura for e-invoicing; ensure your invoices comply to avoid delayed payments.

Can I find work without speaking Romanian?

In major cities, you can start with English, especially with multinational clients. However, site-level communication is often in Romanian. Learning core technical vocabulary and partnering with a Romanian-speaking colleague will expand your opportunities and improve safety.

What tools and certifications do clients expect me to have?

CE-marked tools suitable for 230/400 V systems, insulated hand tools, calibrated multifunction testers for PRAM and RCD testing, PPE, and documented training in SSM and PSI. Clients may also require evidence of ANRE authorization and insurance.

How long does it take to get established?

EU citizens can often register a business and start within weeks. Non-EU citizens should expect several months for permits and visas. To accelerate, line up partnerships, clients, and documentation before arrival, and work under an ANRE-accredited company while your personal authorizations are pending.

Where are the best cities to start?

Bucharest offers the highest volume and variety of projects. Cluj-Napoca is excellent for tech-sector commercial work and renewable energy. Timisoara is strong in industrial and cross-border supply chains. Iasi provides stable public projects and a growing residential market.

What are the biggest pitfalls for new freelancers in Romania?

Underestimating documentation requirements (ANRE, PRAM, SSM/PSI), mismanaging VAT and e-invoicing, inadequate language preparation, and underpricing. Avoid these by working with a competent accountant, learning basic Romanian, partnering with accredited firms, and pricing work to include testing, documentation, and warranty support.