EU Work Permits for Electricians: Complete Guide 2025

Introduction

Thinking about taking your electrical career international? If you are a professional electrician based anywhere in the world and you want a stable EU foothold with strong job demand and a reasonable cost of living, Romania should be on your shortlist. As an EU member state with a fast-growing construction sector, major industrial investments, and a surge in renewable energy projects, Romania offers a compelling combination of opportunity and affordability. For Global electricians, it is a gateway to the European market, while still retaining lower living costs than many Western capitals.

This complete guide walks you through every step to work legally as an electrician in Romania in 2025, from visas and work permits to ANRE authorization, salary expectations, and everyday life. You will learn how Romanian electrical standards align with EU directives, what certifications you will need, how to navigate the paperwork, and the practical realities of relocating. Whether your specialty is residential wiring, industrial automation, solar PV, or high-voltage distribution, you will find actionable advice to make your transition smooth and compliant.

Why Romania?

Romania offers a unique proposition for skilled tradespeople:

EU membership: As a member of the European Union, Romania follows EU directives such as the Low Voltage Directive and the EMC Directive, ensuring a familiar technical framework for electricians trained in European standards.
Dynamic job market: Strong demand exists across construction, industrial manufacturing, logistics, and renewable energy. Significant EU funding for infrastructure and energy transition is expanding the project pipeline.
Lower cost of living: Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi offer modern amenities at a fraction of the price of many Western European cities.
Work-life balance: Reasonable commutes, expanding green spaces, a growing tech and services economy, and access to the Carpathian mountains and Black Sea coastline all contribute to a balanced lifestyle.
Strategic location: Romania is well-connected to Central and Eastern Europe, with easy access by air and road, making it a practical base for regional projects.

Electrician demand in Romania

Residential construction is active in city suburbs and secondary cities, driving demand for low-voltage installation specialists and smart-home system integrators.
Industrial investment remains strong in automotive, electronics, and FMCG manufacturing, creating stable openings for industrial electricians and automation technicians.
Renewable energy is booming, with multi-megawatt solar parks in southern and western regions and wind development resurging, particularly in Dobrogea. Rooftop PV and commercial battery systems are also expanding.
Grid modernization and energy efficiency projects are ongoing, including substation upgrades, medium-voltage distribution works, and building automation retrofits.

Job Market Overview

Romania's electrical job market is diverse and evolving. Here is where the opportunities are most visible in 2025.

Sectors hiring electricians

Residential and commercial construction
- New apartment developments around Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi.
- Office and retail refurbishments requiring smart-building controls, energy-efficient lighting, and fire alarm systems.
- Smart home integrations: structured cabling, KNX, BACnet, Modbus, and IoT integrations.
Industrial facilities and automation
- Automotive and parts suppliers in Arges, Timis, and Cluj counties.
- Food and beverage plants requiring hygienic installations and PLC-based process control.
- Electronics and IT manufacturing requiring ESD-safe installations, UPS systems, and precision power distribution.
Renewable energy and energy storage
- Utility-scale solar farms in Oltenia and Muntenia, with project-based roles for DC stringing, combiner boxes, inverters, and MV connections.
- Rooftop PV for logistics parks and retail chains.
- Battery energy storage systems integrated with PV or grid services.
Power distribution and grid projects
- Medium-voltage upgrades, substation installations, and SCADA integrations.
- Street lighting modernization with LED and smart controls.
Facilities management and building services
- Hospitals, universities, and corporate campuses needing ongoing maintenance, HV/LV switching, and preventive testing.

Typical employers

Electrical contractors and EPCs: local and regional firms handling design-build, project installation, and commissioning.
Construction companies: general contractors subcontracting electrical packages.
Industrial operators: factories employing in-house maintenance and automation teams.
Renewable energy developers and asset managers.
Building services and facility management companies.

Names you may encounter include global brands with Romanian operations (engineering and automation vendors, equipment manufacturers) and established local contractors. Many medium-sized Romanian contractors actively recruit international electricians for project peaks.

Where the jobs are

Bucharest: Romania's largest market with continuous commercial and residential development, data center and logistics activity, and headquarters of major contractors.
Cluj-Napoca: Strong construction growth, tech-driven commercial projects, and industrial facilities in the region.
Timisoara: Manufacturing hub with industrial electrician and automation roles, plus commercial development.
Iasi: Expanding residential and public infrastructure projects, with growing demand for skilled electricians in new builds and renovations.

Legal Requirements: Visas, Work Permits, and Status

For citizens of non-EU countries, working legally in Romania involves a two-step process: a work authorization followed by a long-stay visa and residence permit. Below is a practical breakdown.

Who needs a visa and work permit?

Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens need a Romanian work authorization and a corresponding long-stay visa to enter for employment, then a residence permit after arrival.
EU/EEA/Swiss citizens do not need a visa but must register their residence if staying for more than 3 months.

Main permit options for electricians

Standard employment (most common)
- Employer obtains a work authorization (often called a work permit) from the General Inspectorate for Immigration.
- You apply for a long-stay employment visa at a Romanian consulate after the work authorization is issued.
- After arrival, you apply for a residence permit for employment.
EU Blue Card (for highly qualified workers)
- Requires recognized higher qualification (university degree or comparable professional experience in some cases) and a salary above a national threshold set annually.
- More flexible mobility rights within the EU after a certain period, but it is less common for hands-on electrician roles unless focused on engineering or specialized automation.
Intra-company transfer (ICT)
- For employees of a company outside Romania transferred to a Romanian branch or group company.
- Valid for specific assignments and subject to strict documentation.
Self-employed or business activity
- Possible through a registered sole trader or company. However, to execute electrical works in Romania, you must comply with ANRE authorization rules and local business licensing.
- Work rights depend on the specific immigration category and may involve a long-stay visa for economic or professional activity. This route is more complex and requires careful planning.

The standard employment route: step by step

Employer sponsorship
- A Romanian employer offers you a job and initiates the application for your work authorization.
- They must usually demonstrate they could not fill the role locally and that the job meets wage and compliance requirements.
Work authorization application
- Submitted to the General Inspectorate for Immigration by the employer.
- Documents typically include: your passport copy, proof of qualifications and professional experience, clean police record, medical certificate, job contract/offer, and proof of company compliance.
- Any foreign documents usually require legalization (apostille or consular legalization) and certified translations into Romanian.
- Processing time often ranges from 20 to 45 calendar days, depending on case complexity.
Long-stay employment visa (type D for employment)
- Once the work authorization is approved, you apply for the long-stay employment visa at a Romanian consulate in your country of residence.
- You will present the work authorization, passport, accommodation proof (if required), means of support, and medical insurance for the visa period.
- Visa validity is typically up to 90 days, allowing entry to Romania to finalize your residence permit.
Residence permit for employment
- After entering Romania, apply for a residence permit before your visa expires (generally within 30 to 90 days of entry).
- You will provide your employment contract, accommodation proof, health insurance, and the work authorization details.
- The first residence permit is often valid for up to 1 year and can be renewed while you remain employed and compliant.
Family reunification
- Spouse and dependent children may apply for reunification after your residence is granted, subject to income and housing requirements.

Timelines and fees

Plan 2 to 3 months for the full process from employer sponsorship to residence permit issuance, excluding any delays for document legalization or translation.
Fees vary by permit category and are updated periodically. Budget for authorization fees, visa fees, residence card fees, and translation/legalization costs.

Your immigration status and work scope

The permit is employer-specific for standard employment. Changing employers usually requires a new work authorization.
Working across multiple sites for the same employer is normal; just ensure your contract and health and safety trainings cover each site.
For project-based travel to other EU countries, note that a Romanian permit does not automatically grant work rights in another EU state. You will need the host country's rules complied with, or be seconded under proper arrangements.

Certification and License Recognition

In Romania, electrical work that affects public or private installations is regulated. The central authority for authorizing electricians and economic operators is ANRE (Autoritatea Nationala de Reglementare in Energie).

ANRE electrician authorization: what you need to know

ANRE authorization is commonly required for those who design, execute, operate, or verify electrical installations. ANRE authorizations are structured by grade and scope, typically noted with A (design) and B (execution):

Grade I (A/B): Focused on low-voltage consumer installations, commonly up to around 1 kV. Suitable for residential and small commercial work.
Grade II (A/B): Covers medium-voltage distribution and related installations, typically above low-voltage levels and commonly up to around 20 kV.
Grade III (A/B): Associated with high-voltage installations, substations, and complex industrial or grid infrastructure, generally above medium-voltage levels.
Grade IV (A/B): Often associated with verification, commissioning, and coordination responsibilities in complex installations. This grade is typically held by experienced personnel, sometimes in technical responsible roles.

Important: The exact scope and nomenclature can change with ANRE regulations. Always consult the latest ANRE guidelines to confirm voltage limits and permitted activities for each grade.

Pathways for Global electricians to get ANRE authorization

Document your qualifications and experience
- Gather diplomas, trade certificates, apprenticeship records, and employment reference letters that detail the voltage levels, systems, and duties you performed.
- Prepare certified translations into Romanian and legalizations (apostille or consular) as required.
Map your competencies to ANRE requirements
- If you have substantial experience in low-voltage building wiring, Grade I B is often the first target. For those with MV/HV experience, Grades II or III may be achievable after assessment.
- Designers will aim for A-type authorization; installers for B-type; many professionals ultimately hold both, depending on background.
Prepare for the ANRE exam or assessment
- ANRE typically requires an examination to confirm knowledge of Romanian standards, safety rules, and technical practices.
- Exams are usually in Romanian. Some candidates use accredited interpreters for permitted parts of the process, but you should expect to study technical Romanian terminology.
- Focus areas generally include: grounding and lightning protection, cable sizing, protection devices, selectivity, testing and verification (PRAM), work permits and lockout-tagout, and applicable standards.
Leverage bridging courses and training providers
- Romanian training centers offer preparatory courses for each grade. These courses cover national deviations from international practice, local codes, and exam format.
- If your background is strong, you may be able to fast-track to the exam after a short preparatory course.
Secure a Romanian employer or business partner
- While you can prepare independently, many electricians obtain ANRE authorization while employed by a Romanian firm that helps with training and registration.

Romanian standards and EU directives

Romania harmonizes with EU standards and directives, including:

Low Voltage Directive (2014/35/EU): For electrical equipment operating between certain voltage limits.
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Directive (2014/30/EU): For limiting electromagnetic interference.
Machinery Directive (applicable to industrial installations where machinery is involved).
ATEX Directive for explosive atmospheres (where applicable).
Cable reaction-to-fire requirements under EU Construction Products rules.

On the standards side, expect Romanian adaptations of EN and IEC standards, including the 60364 series for low-voltage installations, 60204-1 for machinery, and standards for lightning protection, protective measures, and inspection/testing. Local rules may specify documentation formats, marking, and responsibilities within Romanian legal frameworks.

Safety certifications beyond ANRE

Occupational safety (SSM) and fire safety (PSI) training: Mandatory site inductions are standard before working on Romanian job sites.
First aid: Often required for team leads and supervisors.
PRAM testing authorization: Specialized qualification to perform earth resistance, insulation resistance, and protective device testing on installations.
Powered access and lifting: For MEWPs and forklifts, Romanian site managers may request EU-recognized courses (e.g., IPAF equivalents) and local validation.
Hot work permits and lockout-tagout: Site-specific requirements are common.

Tools and test equipment compliance

CE marking: Hand tools, power tools, and measurement instruments must be CE compliant. Ensure manuals and safety labels are clear.
Voltage compatibility: Romania is 230/400 V at 50 Hz. Tools from 120 V markets require suitable step-down transformers and must still meet EU safety requirements.
Calibration: Testers and meters may need valid calibration certificates from an accredited laboratory recognized in the EU. Romanian labs accredited by RENAR can handle periodic calibration.

Salary and Benefits

Compensation varies by city, project type, and your authorization level. The ranges below represent typical 2025 market observations for full-time roles. Contractors on short-term projects may earn more per day, balanced by less predictable schedules.

Monthly net salary ranges (approximate)

Junior electrician or installer (0-2 years): 3,500 - 5,000 RON net (about 700 - 1,000 EUR)
Qualified electrician, low-voltage (ANRE Grade I B): 4,500 - 7,500 RON net (about 900 - 1,500 EUR)
Industrial electrician/automation tech (PLCs, drives): 6,000 - 10,000 RON net (about 1,200 - 2,000 EUR)
Site supervisor or foreman (ANRE II/III B, team lead): 8,000 - 12,000 RON net (about 1,600 - 2,400 EUR)
Commissioning specialist or high-voltage roles: 9,000 - 14,000 RON net (about 1,800 - 2,800 EUR)

Notes:

Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca tend to pay toward the higher end due to demand and cost of living.
Renewable energy project roles often include per diems, travel, and accommodation.
Overtime, night shifts, and hazardous work allowances can significantly increase take-home pay.

Day rates for contractors

Standard electrician: 400 - 700 RON per day
Specialist/automation/HV: 600 - 1,000 RON per day

Rates vary widely by project stage, scope, risk, and whether tools, vehicle, and accommodation are included.

Benefits commonly offered

Meal vouchers (tichete de masa): Often 20 - 40 RON per working day loaded on a card.
Transport allowance or company shuttle.
Accommodation for out-of-town projects.
Private health insurance or clinic subscriptions, especially in larger companies.
Annual leave: Typically 20 or more working days, plus public holidays.
Training budget: Many employers contribute to ANRE exam prep or renewals.

Payroll basics

Romania calculates payroll with social contributions and income tax withheld at source. The ratio of net to gross depends on allowances and deductions, but as a rough guide, the net is typically a little over half of the gross. Employers can provide you with a sample payslip so you understand contributions before signing a contract.

Cost of Living

Romania's cost of living is lower than in many EU countries, while still providing access to quality services and amenities. Below are practical monthly budget ranges in major cities for a single professional.

Housing

Bucharest:
- 1-bedroom apartment: 400 - 700 EUR per month in well-connected areas; more in premium neighborhoods.
- 2-bedroom apartment: 600 - 1,000 EUR per month depending on area and building age.
Cluj-Napoca:
- 1-bedroom: 350 - 650 EUR
- 2-bedroom: 550 - 900 EUR
Timisoara:
- 1-bedroom: 300 - 600 EUR
- 2-bedroom: 500 - 800 EUR
Iasi:
- 1-bedroom: 300 - 550 EUR
- 2-bedroom: 450 - 750 EUR

Tips:

Check commute to job sites and access to metro or tram. In Bucharest, the metro is a major advantage.
Many employers provide accommodation for temporary project assignments.

Utilities and internet

Utilities for a 1-bedroom: 80 - 150 EUR per month (seasonal variations for heating and air conditioning).
High-speed internet: 8 - 15 EUR per month; mobile plans are affordable with generous data.

Transportation

Public transport passes: 15 - 20 EUR per month in most cities; Bucharest metro plus surface transport combined passes cost more but remain affordable.
Rideshares and taxis: Competitive pricing in major cities.
Fuel: Plan around EU-average prices; owning a car adds parking and insurance costs.

Food and daily expenses

Groceries: 150 - 300 EUR per month depending on preferences.
Lunch out: 6 - 12 EUR per meal in most urban areas; more in premium locations.
Coffee: 2 - 4 EUR.
Gym membership: 25 - 60 EUR per month.

Family costs

Childcare: Private daycare can range from 200 - 500 EUR per month in larger cities.
Schools: International schools are available in Bucharest and a few major cities with higher tuition fees; bilingual and public options exist depending on language needs.

Cultural Integration

Understanding and adapting to Romanian workplace norms helps you succeed faster.

Language basics for electricians

While many engineers and site managers speak English, Romanian is the default on job sites. Learning key terms improves safety and teamwork.

Tools and equipment: surubelnita (screwdriver), cleste (pliers), bormasina (drill), aparat de masura (multimeter), tester de izolatie (insulation tester).
Safety and site: casca (helmet), manusi (gloves), harnasament (harness), intrerupe alimentarea (shut off power), autorizatie de lucru (work permit), priza (socket), impamantare (grounding).
Directions: stanga (left), dreapta (right), sus (up), jos (down), opri (stop), asteapta (wait).

A beginner Romanian course or an app-based program will get you far. On multi-national projects, English will usually get you by, but safety briefings and documentation often appear in Romanian.

Workplace culture and expectations

Safety first: Pre-start briefings and toolbox talks are standard. Supervisors expect strict adherence to lockout-tagout, PPE, and work permits for energized tasks.
Documentation: Site managers expect clear as-builts, test certificates, and labeled panels. Romanian clients appreciate tidy workmanship and full documentation sets at handover.
Hierarchy and respect: Address supervisors and clients formally at first. Punctuality and politeness go a long way.
Problem-solving: Proactiveness is valued, but do not bypass procedures. Escalate issues through the proper chain of command.

Social life and expat integration

Expat communities exist in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi. Online groups are useful for housing, buying tools, and networking.
Romanians are hospitable and appreciate efforts to speak the language. Shared meals on site build camaraderie.
Romania has 15+ public holidays and many vibrant local traditions. Embracing the culture makes your stay rewarding.

Practical Steps to Relocate

Follow this structured plan to move from interest to employment in Romania.

1. Assess your profile and goals

Specialization: residential LV, industrial wiring, automation, PV, or HV.
Target cities: weigh salaries against cost of living.
Authorization path: identify which ANRE grade aligns with your experience.

2. Prepare your documents

Passport valid for at least 6-12 months beyond planned entry.
Diplomas, trade certificates, apprenticeship papers, reference letters.
Police clearance and medical certificate.
CV tailored to Romanian employers, including voltage levels, systems, and standards used.
Arrange apostille/legalization and certified translations into Romanian for key documents.

3. Start job search and employer outreach

Apply to Romanian electrical contractors, EPCs, and industrial employers. Highlight EU standards familiarity, safety certifications, and commissioning experience.
Use job portals and professional networks. Consider contacting recruiters specializing in technical trades within Romania.

4. Confirm employer sponsorship

Ensure the employer understands the work authorization process for non-EU workers and commits to initiating it promptly.
Clarify who covers fees, translation costs, and travel.

5. Work authorization and visa

Employer files the work authorization application with immigration.
After approval, apply for the long-stay employment visa at the nearest Romanian consulate.
Prepare for processing times and stay responsive to any requests for additional documents.

6. Plan arrival and housing

Short-term rentals for the first month give you flexibility to learn neighborhoods and commute options.
If your job is project-based outside major cities, confirm accommodation and transport are provided.

7. Residence permit after arrival

Register your address, attend your biometrics appointment, and submit required documents for your residence card.
Keep copies of everything; store both digital and physical sets.

8. Begin ANRE authorization pathway

Enroll in a preparatory course if needed.
Obtain exam schedules and study materials.
If your job role initially keeps you under supervision, work with your employer to schedule exams within the first 3-6 months.

9. Equipment and PPE setup

Bring or buy CE-compliant tools. If coming from a 120 V environment, plan safe power solutions.
Arrange calibration for test equipment as needed.

10. Complete mandatory site trainings

SSM and PSI onboarding is common. Keep certificates handy and renew as required.

11. Set up your finances and utilities

Open a local bank account for payroll and expenses.
Get a Romanian SIM and internet plan.
Learn how to pay bills online and track expenses.

12. Build your network

Join local electrician groups and online communities.
Attend trade supplier events and manufacturer trainings. Vendors often provide free technical sessions.

Success Tips From Other Expats

Tackle Romanian early: Learn key technical terms. Even basic phrases increase trust on site and help during inspections.
Document everything: Keep an organized folder with contracts, authorizations, test certificates, and photo records of installations.
Respect local codes: Where your previous practice differs, follow Romanian rules. Inspectors appreciate seeing standards referenced in your drawings and test sheets.
Be realistic with timelines: Factor in translation and legalization time for diplomas and police records. Start early.
Choose employers carefully: Favor companies with a known track record hiring international staff and supporting ANRE certification.
Leverage manufacturer support: Local reps for switchgear, drives, and PLCs often provide Romanian-language manuals and on-site training.
Monitor renewal dates: Immigration status, ANRE authorization, calibration, and safety trainings all have expiry dates. Set calendar reminders.

Conclusion: Your Next Step

Romania is a high-potential destination for Global electricians seeking EU work experience, competitive pay relative to living costs, and access to complex, career-building projects. With clear rules for work permits, a defined ANRE authorization system, and a growing pipeline in renewables, industrial automation, and construction, the pathway is achievable if you plan methodically.

If you are ready to move forward, start by aligning your experience with an ANRE grade, preparing your documents for translation, and speaking with employers who can sponsor your work authorization. Within a few months, you can be on site in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, or Iasi, building your European electrical career.

FAQ

1) Can I work as an electrician in Romania without ANRE authorization?

You can be employed and perform certain tasks under supervision, but most independent installation, commissioning, and verification activities on permanent electrical installations require ANRE authorization for the responsible person. Many employers hire experienced foreigners and place them under a Romanian ANRE holder while you complete your own authorization. Your goal should be to obtain at least the relevant Grade I or II for your scope as soon as possible.

2) Is the ANRE exam in Romanian? Can I take it in English?

ANRE examinations and official materials are generally in Romanian. While some training providers may offer prep courses in English or allow interpreters in limited contexts, you should plan to study technical Romanian terms and sit the exam in Romanian. This is one reason early language preparation is so important.

3) What voltage and frequency does Romania use, and will my tools work?

Romania uses 230/400 V at 50 Hz. If your tools are designed for 120 V 60 Hz systems, you will need compliant step-down transformers and ensure your equipment carries the necessary CE marking for EU use. Check the nameplate ratings for dual-voltage capability and ensure any adapters and transformers are properly rated and safe.

4) How long does the work permit and visa process take for a non-EU citizen?

From the time your employer submits the work authorization, plan approximately 20 to 45 days for approval, plus time for you to obtain the long-stay employment visa at a consulate, and then another few weeks to secure your residence permit after arrival. Overall, a 2 to 3 month timeline is common if your documents are complete and translations are ready.

5) Are Romanian electrician salaries enough to live comfortably?

Yes, particularly outside premium neighborhoods in Bucharest. A qualified electrician earning 4,500 - 7,500 RON net per month can maintain a modest but comfortable standard of living, especially if meal vouchers and transport allowances are included. Higher-skilled roles in industrial automation or HV, and project-based assignments with per diems, provide even more cushion.

6) Will my foreign apprenticeship or license be recognized directly by ANRE?

Not directly. ANRE does not automatically convert foreign licenses, but you can use your apprenticeship records, diplomas, and experience letters to qualify for an appropriate exam. With strong documentation, many skilled electricians obtain Grade I B quickly and progress to higher grades with experience and further exams.

7) Can I bring my family with me to Romania?

Yes. After you obtain your residence permit for employment, your spouse and dependent children can apply for family reunification, subject to income and housing criteria. Processing times vary, so plan in advance and keep all documents translated and legalized as required.

8) Do Romanian permits allow me to work in other EU countries?

A Romanian residence and work permit allows you to live and work in Romania. It does not automatically grant work rights in other EU states. For assignments abroad, your employer must comply with the host country's rules. The EU Blue Card provides some intra-EU mobility benefits after meeting certain conditions, but check the host country's requirements before travel.

9) What safety and compliance checks should I expect on Romanian sites?

Expect SSM and PSI inductions, PPE checks, lockout-tagout procedures, and verification that your test equipment is calibrated. Inspectors may ask for as-built drawings, PRAM test results, and proof of ANRE authorization for responsible personnel. For PV and industrial projects, you may also provide commissioning reports consistent with equipment manufacturers and EU standards.

10) What are common mistakes Global electricians make when relocating to Romania?

Underestimating translation and legalization time for documents.
Assuming 120 V tools can be used without transformers or CE compliance.
Delaying ANRE exam preparation and limiting their scope of work.
Accepting offers without clear terms on accommodation, per diems, or travel for project roles.
Not budgeting for initial setup costs like deposits, tools, and car expenses.

By planning carefully, respecting local codes, and engaging with the ANRE authorization process early, you can build a strong, long-term electrical career in Romania.