Romania modernised foreign-worker hiring with Emergency Ordinance 32/2026, replacing the old paper framework with a single digital platform and two long-stay visa categories. Understanding which track you fall into, quota-exempt D/AM1 or quota-based D/AM2, determines timelines, documents and whether a shortage-list match matters.
D/AM1 vs D/AM2 at a glance
D/AM1, quota-exempt
Highly qualified workers and defined special categories. No annual quota and no shortage-list constraint, but stricter qualification, salary and recognition bars.
D/AM2, quota-based
General labour including most construction and warehouse profiles. Gated by the annual quota and the Shortage Occupations List via IGI digital clearance.
What changed operationally
- Single digital platform: sponsoring employers obtain clearance through the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) online, replacing fragmented paper steps.
- Shortage List gates D/AM2: roles outside the list face a harder path, confirm the current edition before assuming eligibility.
- Schengen reality: Romania is a full Schengen member since January 2025. Mobility attaches at the residence-permit stage; the work authorisation itself stays Romania-tied.
- Employer tie: both tracks link the permit to the sponsoring employer registration, changing employers generally means a fresh authorisation.
Who should read the destination guides next
- Construction profiles: Romania Construction Jobs and the Romania Work Permit pillar.
- Logistics profiles: Romania Warehouse Jobs.
- Unsure which track fits: check your eligibility, final decisions rest with the Romanian authorities.
Verify Your Romania Track Before Filing
Nexus Point maps your occupation against the live shortage list and D/AM conditions, application support only, never guaranteed outcomes.
