How Not to Start a Business in Romania as a Foreigner

Why Do Foreigners Choose Romania?

Romania stands out as one of the most attractive destinations for a Company Formation Romania in Europe for entrepreneurs, especially foreign founders. With EU membership, competitive costs, and flexible company structures, it can be an excellent place to launch and grow a business.

1) EU membership and market access

A Romanian company can trade and operate across the EU single market. While procedures are still national, the EU framework makes cross-border trade and services more accessible. Moving to Romania is only option, but not necessary.

2) Competitive taxes and operating costs

Romania offers multiple taxation options depending on your revenue and business model, including micro-company regimes for qualifying businesses and a standard corporate income tax regime.

3) Low minimum share capital

The SRL (limited liability company) can be formed with a very low share capital, making it accessible for startups and small teams.

4) No general foreign ownership restrictions

In most cases, foreigners can own and control Romanian companies without a local partner. This is one reason Romania remains attractive to international entrepreneurs.

Step 1 — Choose the Right Business Structure

The first strategic decision is your legal form. This impacts liability, tax, governance, and ongoing compliance. The most common options are:

• SRL (Limited Liability Company) — the standard choice for most foreign founders.
• PFA (Authorized Person) — similar to sole proprietor; often suited to freelancers.
• Branch / Representative Office — extensions of a foreign entity for specific use cases.
• SA (Joint-stock company) — more complex; usually for larger structures.

For most non-resident founders building an SME, an SRL is typically the best balance between simplicity and protection.

Step 2 — Reserve Your Company Name

You need a unique company name reservation before filing. The name is checked against existing entries at the National Trade Register Office (ONRC).

• Prepare 2–3 backup names.
• Avoid confusingly similar names.
• Some keywords may require extra approvals depending on sector.

Once approved, name reservations are typically valid for a limited period, so plan your next steps in advance.

Step 3 — Prepare Documentation and Legal Requirements

Romania requires an incorporation package. The exact documents vary by structure and founder situation, but commonly include:

• Articles of Association (Company Statute)
• Shareholder details and ownership structure
• Administrator/manager appointments
• Registered office proof (lease, consent, or service agreement)
• Share capital subscription/deposit details

If documents are signed abroad, expect notarization, apostille/legalization, and certified translation requirements. This is where local professional help often saves the most time.

Step 4 — Open a Bank Account and Handle Capital Requirements

You may need a bank account to deposit share capital and later to operate. Banks apply KYC/AML checks and may request:

• Identification documents for shareholders and administrators
• Proof of address
• Business description and expected transactions
• Source-of-funds documentation

Some banks allow remote onboarding in limited cases, but others may require in-person presence, especially for non-EU founders. After depositing share capital, the bank issues a certificate used in the incorporation file.

Step 5 — Register with the National Trade Register Office (ONRC)

With your documents ready and capital steps handled, you submit your file to ONRC. The registration process typically includes:

1. Submission of incorporation package
2. Formal verification for compliance
3. Issuance of the Certificate of Incorporation (if approved)

Timelines can vary, but well-prepared applications can often be processed within a week. Delays usually come from missing documents, incorrect translations, or address and banking inconsistencies.

Step 6 — Tax Registration and Post-Registration Tasks

After incorporation, your company must be set up correctly for tax and accounting purposes. Depending on the structure, the company will interact with the National Agency for Fiscal Administration (ANAF).

VAT registration (TVA)

VAT can become mandatory above certain turnover thresholds. Voluntary VAT may be possible depending on your business model (EU trade, B2B services, imports). VAT registration impacts reporting frequency and compliance requirements.

Payroll and social contributions

If you hire employees, you’ll need payroll registration and correct monthly filings for income taxes and social contributions. Set this up before hiring to avoid penalties.

Step 7 — Comply with Ongoing Obligations

Incorporation is only the start. Romanian companies generally need consistent bookkeeping and periodic filings. Typical obligations can include:

• Accounting records and invoices
• Corporate tax filings
• VAT returns (if registered)
• Annual financial statements
• Payroll and social contributions filings (if you have staff)

A Romanian accountant is not optional for most foreign founders — it’s a core part of staying compliant and operating safely.

Special Considerations for Foreigners

EU vs non-EU founders

EU citizens can usually live and work in Romania with minimal formalities, while non-EU founders who want to reside locally may need appropriate visas/residence permits. Company ownership and company management are separate from immigration status.

Language and documents

Romanian is the official language for filings and many official communications. Use certified translations and ensure legal formats match Romanian practice.

Timing and Cost Expectations

Timeframe

With documents prepared and banking handled efficiently, formation can often be completed within 1–2 weeks. Complex cases (non-EU founders, extensive translations, VAT registration) may take longer.

Costs

Romania is cost-efficient, but real-world costs typically include notary fees, translations, accounting, banking, and registered office services (if needed). Budget realistically to avoid delays.

Tips for a Smooth Setup

• Prepare early: collect IDs, proof of address, and business details before starting.
• Use local help: a lawyer for documents and an accountant for tax/compliance saves time.
• Plan banking: AML checks can slow things down — bring full documentation.
• Think compliance first: set up bookkeeping and filing reminders from day one.

Why Romania Is Worth It

Romania offers EU access, flexible company structures, competitive tax options, and a growing economy. It can be a strong base for serving EU clients, building a regional hub, or hiring talent in sectors such as IT and services.

Conclusion — Start Your Business in Romania with Confidence

Starting a company in Romania as a foreigner is absolutely achievable with the right preparation. Focus on the fundamentals: choose the correct structure, secure a registered office, prepare documents and translations properly, plan for banking and share capital, and build compliance workflows early.