The Current Landscape of Romania’s Labor Market
Romania’s labor market has been experiencing significant changes in recent years, with one of the most notable trends being the increase in non-EU workers residing and working in the country. According to the latest data from the Inspectorat General pentru Imigrări, cited by Olx, there were 101,599 non-EU citizens with valid residence permits for employment in Romania at the end of last year. This represents a 44% increase from the end of 2023, when there were 74,394 such workers.
Major Source Countries
A significant portion of these workers come from Nepal, which accounts for one-third of the total non-EU workforce in Romania. The number of Nepalese workers increased by 63% in 2024 compared to 2023. Other notable source countries include Sri Lanka, Turkey, India, and Bangladesh. These workers have been employed in various sectors to address local labor shortages and to earn incomes significantly higher than what they could achieve in their home countries.
New Opportunities for Non-EU Workers
In 2025, there is a new development as some non-EU employees are preparing to become taxi or ride-sharing drivers. This is made possible by a new European directive that allows them to apply for such positions.
Government Policies and Quotas
The Romanian government has been proactive in addressing the labor shortage by increasing the annual quota of non-EU citizens allowed to work in the country. In the past four years, approximately 100,000 non-EU workers have been granted the right to apply for vacant jobs in Romania. This is particularly important in sectors such as hotels and restaurants, and construction, where labor shortages are most pronounced.
The government’s stance is clear: „The labor force crisis at the national level is a reality, and finding solutions to cover the labor force deficit is one of the priorities of the Romanian Government at this moment.” They recognize that legal immigration can be a solution to compensate for the labor force deficit, cover gaps for certain qualifications, and support economic growth.
The Shift in Migration Trends
In 2023, for the second consecutive year, the number of immigrants to Romania exceeded that of emigrants. This shift is influenced by factors such as immigrants from Ukraine and Asian countries, as well as the increase in salaries within Romania.
While over 250,000 Romanians still leave the country annually, mostly temporarily, there is also a significant number returning. Some return for family reunification, while others come back after retiring abroad. The reasons for returning include the growth in Romanian salaries, which now offer a better quality of life alongside family.
The Impact on Romania’s Population
Emigration and declining birth rates are the main factors contributing to the decrease in Romania’s population, which now stands at 19 million residents after losing 1 million in the last decade.
The increase in non-EU labor in Romania reflects the country’s efforts to address its labor market challenges through legal immigration. As the government continues to adjust policies and quotas, and as more non-EU workers find opportunities in Romania, this trend is likely to continue, shaping the future of Romania’s workforce and economy.
For businesses looking to navigate this changing landscape, partnering with experienced recruitment agencies like GlobalWorker can provide valuable support in accessing this growing pool of talent.
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