Understanding Work Permits (Aviz de Muncă) for Foreigners in Romania

Oh, the infamous Romanian work permit! If you’re a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen dreaming of working here, you've likely already felt the creeping dread of administrative paperwork. It’s not just a piece of paper; it’s your golden ticket to legally contribute to this vibrant economy, and navigating its intricacies can feel like deciphering an ancient scroll. This guide will walk you through the often-confusing world of the Aviz de Muncă, breaking down what you need to know, what your employer needs to do, and how to get through it without pulling all your hair out.

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The Labyrinth of Romanian Work Permits: An Overview

Let's face it, moving to a new country and starting a job is exciting, but the paperwork? Not so much. In Romania, for many non-EU citizens, the very first and often most critical hurdle is securing an Aviz de Muncă, or work permit. This isn't just a formality; it's the fundamental authorization that allows you to be legally employed. Without it, you simply can't work.

What Exactly is an Aviz de Muncă?

An Aviz de Muncă is essentially an approval issued by the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) in Romania, confirming that a specific Romanian employer is permitted to hire a specific foreign citizen for a specific job role. Think of it as a preliminary green light. It acknowledges that the Romanian labour market currently needs your skills or that your employer has justified your recruitment, often because they couldn't find a suitable candidate locally. It’s important to understand that this isn’t the final step in your journey to legally work and reside here; it’s a crucial stepping stone.

The process is heavily weighted on the employer's side because they are the ones applying for your work permit, not you directly. They need to demonstrate to the authorities that they have a legitimate need to hire a foreign national and that all conditions are met. This means preparing a ton of documents, navigating various agencies, and proving that your position is indeed necessary. For you, the expat, it means relying heavily on your employer to get things right and to keep you informed every step of the way. It’s a partnership, but one where your employer holds most of the administrative heavy lifting.

Who Needs a Work Permit to Begin With?

This is a pretty straightforward rule, thankfully. If you are a citizen of a country outside the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland, you will almost certainly need an Aviz de Muncă to work legally in Romania. This includes citizens from countries like the United States, Canada, the UK (post-Brexit), India, South Africa, and so many more. Without it, any employment would be considered illegal, leading to severe consequences for both you and your employer.

There are some exceptions, of course, because bureaucracy loves complexity! For instance, if you're coming here on a specific type of visa like the Digital Nomad Visa, you generally won't need a traditional work permit, as you're not employed by a Romanian company. Similarly, those with existing long-term residence permits based on family reunification or other grounds might have different requirements, or even direct access to the labour market. But for the vast majority of non-EU citizens seeking employment, the Aviz de Muncă is non-negotiable. It's truly the foundation upon which your entire working life in Romania will be built, so understanding this initial need is paramount.

The Role of the Employer in the Process

As I mentioned, your prospective Romanian employer is not just offering you a job; they're also taking on the significant administrative burden of securing your work permit. This is absolutely critical, as you, the foreign national, cannot apply for an Aviz de Muncă directly. The entire process is initiated by the employer. They submit the application to the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) and are responsible for gathering a mountain of company-specific documents.

This means a lot of communication between you and your employer will be necessary. They'll need things from you, like your CV, copies of your passport, diplomas, and potentially other certificates. Meanwhile, they'll be busy with their own tasks: proving the financial viability of their company, demonstrating the need for your specific role, and often, conducting a labour market test to show that no suitable Romanian or EU candidates were available. This test, conducted through the National Employment Agency (ANOFM), is a crucial step and can add significant time to the process. It's a real commitment from your employer, so ensure you choose a company that understands these processes and is willing to invest the time and resources into bringing you onboard. You can find more insights into finding suitable roles by checking out our guide on The Expat Guide to Finding a Job in Romania (2027).

Types of Work Permits in Romania: Finding Your Category

Just like there isn't a "one-size-fits-all" expat experience, there isn't a single "work permit" in Romania. The type of permit you need depends entirely on your specific job, qualifications, and the duration of your employment. It’s crucial to identify the correct category from the outset, as the requirements and application procedures can differ significantly.

Highly Qualified Workers and the EU Blue Card

For many skilled professionals, particularly those coming from outside the EU/EEA, the EU Blue Card is often the most desirable route. This permit is specifically designed to attract highly qualified non-EU workers. It offers certain advantages, such as a faster track to long-term residency and, in some cases, easier family reunification. To qualify, you generally need to have a higher education degree (a university diploma representing a course of at least three years) and an employment contract for a high-level position with a salary significantly above the average Romanian gross salary. As of 2024, this typically means a gross monthly salary of at least the average gross salary multiplied by 1.5. This threshold can change, so always check the latest figures.

The EU Blue Card streamlines the process and offers greater mobility within the EU after a certain period, which can be a huge draw for expats with international career aspirations. However, the requirements are strict, and your employer needs to clearly demonstrate that your role requires a highly specialized skill set. It's a premium permit for premium skills, and definitely worth exploring if your qualifications and job offer fit the bill.

Permanent, Seconded, and Seasonal Workers

Beyond the EU Blue Card, Romania offers several other work permit categories tailored to different employment scenarios.

Permanent Workers: This is the most common type for those coming to Romania for a long-term, indefinite employment contract. The requirements are generally similar to the EU Blue Card regarding qualifications and the labour market test, though the salary threshold might be lower than for a Blue Card. These permits are typically issued for one year and are renewable.
Seconded Workers: If you're employed by a company outside Romania and are being temporarily transferred to work for a Romanian entity (either within the same group or under a service contract), you'd likely fall into the seconded worker category. This is common for international companies with Romanian subsidiaries or clients. The focus here is on the existing employment relationship and the temporary nature of the assignment.
Seasonal Workers: For jobs that are inherently temporary and tied to specific seasons (think agriculture, tourism during peak season), seasonal work permits are available. These are typically for shorter durations, usually up to 6 months, and have specific conditions regarding accommodation and repatriation.

Each of these categories has its own set of rules, documentation, and validity periods. It’s absolutely crucial that your employer correctly identifies the type of work permit that applies to your situation. Misfiling under the wrong category can lead to significant delays or even outright rejection.

Digital Nomads, Interns, and Other Special Categories

Romania has made strides in attracting various other types of foreign workers, recognizing the evolving global workforce.

Digital Nomads: A relatively new and popular option, Romania now offers a dedicated How to Apply for Romania's Digital Nomad Visa. Crucially, if you are granted this visa, you do not need a traditional Aviz de Muncă because you are not employed by a Romanian company. Your income must come from outside Romania. This is a game-changer for many remote workers looking for a European base.
Interns/Trainees: For those looking to gain work experience, special permits exist for interns or trainees. These usually have specific educational requirements and are tied to a training program or internship contract. The duration is limited, and the focus is on learning and development rather than long-term employment.
Cross-border Workers, Sportspeople, Artists, Researchers, Volunteers: Romania also has specific categories for various other professionals and individuals. These typically apply to very niche situations and have highly specialized requirements. For instance, athletes signed with Romanian clubs, artists performing for a specific period, or researchers engaged in specific projects would fall under these categories.

Understanding the nuances between these different work permit categories is the first step in a smooth application process. It ensures that both you and your employer gather the right documents and follow the correct procedures, saving a lot of headaches down the line.

Work Permit Type	Target Applicant	Key Requirements	Typical Duration	Notable Benefits/Drawbacks
Highly Qualified (EU Blue Card)	Non-EU/EEA highly skilled professionals	University degree (3+ years), high-level employment contract, salary >= 1.5x average gross Romanian salary, often a labour market test.	1-2 years	Faster processing, easier family reunification, better EU mobility. Strict salary/qualification criteria.
Permanent Worker	Non-EU/EEA employed long-term	Employment contract (indefinite or fixed-term > 1 year), qualifications matching job, labour market test (unless exempt), employer solvency.	1 year	Most common long-term option. Subject to annual quotas, potentially longer processing.
Seconded Worker	Non-EU/EEA transferred by foreign employer	Existing employment contract abroad, service contract or intra-group transfer to Romania, proof of social security coverage, specific duration.	Up to 1 year	Suitable for internal transfers. Less stringent labour market test.
Seasonal Worker	Non-EU/EEA for seasonal jobs	Employment contract for seasonal activity (agriculture, tourism), proof of accommodation and repatriation, limited duration.	Up to 6 months	Limited to specific industries and short periods.
Intern/Trainee	Non-EU/EEA students for practical experience	Internship/training agreement, proof of student status or recent graduation, specific program duration, often lower income requirements.	Up to 1 year	Focus on learning, not permanent employment. Restricted to educational/training purposes.
Digital Nomad Visa	Non-EU/EEA remote workers (self-employed/foreign employed)	Proof of remote work (outside Romania), minimum income (3x average gross Romanian salary), health insurance.	1 year	No work permit needed. Freedom to work for foreign clients/companies. Not an Aviz de Muncă itself.

The Application Process: Step-by-Step for Employer and Employee

Now, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of how this whole process actually works. It's often multi-layered, involving different institutions, and requires a methodical approach. Patience, my friend, is not just a virtue here; it's a necessity.

Initial Steps for the Romanian Employer

For your Romanian employer, the journey begins long before you even submit your personal documents. They have a critical role in demonstrating to the authorities that hiring a foreign national is justified and necessary. One of the most common and time-consuming steps is the labour market test. This means your employer usually has to advertise the position through the National Employment Agency (ANOFM) for a specific period (often 30-60 days) to prove that there are no suitable Romanian or EU/EEA/Swiss candidates available for the role. This step is designed to protect the local workforce and is often a major hurdle. However, certain categories, such as highly qualified workers (EU Blue Card) or those with unique expertise, might be exempt from this test.

Once the labour market test (if required) is complete and no suitable candidates are found, or if an exemption applies, the employer then prepares the work permit application dossier. This includes a multitude of company documents: proof of registration with the Trade Register, copies of their financial statements to show solvency, the job description, the proposed employment contract, and a declaration stating they couldn't find a suitable local candidate. They also need to pay the application fee, which, while not exorbitant, is another administrative detail. This entire dossier is then submitted to the local General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) office, usually in the county where the company is registered. This initial submission is entirely the employer's responsibility.

Your Role as the Foreign Employee

While your employer is slogging through the initial company paperwork, you, as the foreign employee, will have your own list of items to prepare. Your part of the application focuses on proving your identity, qualifications, and suitability for the role. This typically includes:

Passport: A valid passport, with sufficient validity beyond your intended stay.
CV: An updated CV, often required in Romanian or translated.
Educational Diplomas and Professional Qualifications: Copies of your degrees, vocational certificates, and any other relevant professional qualifications. These often need to be translated into Romanian and, depending on the issuing country, might require an apostille or super-legalization. This process of getting your How to Get Your Foreign Degree Recognised (CNRED) in Romania can take time, so start early!
Medical Certificate: A recent medical certificate from a Romanian medical unit (or sometimes an accredited one from your home country) confirming you're fit to work and don't suffer from diseases that could endanger public health.
Criminal Record Certificate: A criminal record certificate from your home country, and sometimes from any other countries you've resided in for a significant period. Again, translation and apostille are usually required.
Proof of Accommodation: While not always a direct requirement for the Aviz de Muncă itself, you'll absolutely need proof of accommodation later for your residence permit. So, it's good to have this in mind. Thinking ahead to secure your housing will be crucial for the next steps, especially if you're looking for an apartment in a major city like Bucharest – you might want to look at advice on How Much Does It Cost to Rent an Apartment in Bucharest in 2026?.

The key here is accuracy and completeness. Any missing or incorrect document can cause significant delays. It’s also vital to ensure all foreign-issued documents are translated into Romanian by an authorized translator and, where necessary, apostilled or super-legalized. This ensures their legal validity in Romania.

From Work Permit Approval to Long-Stay Visa

Once the IGI has reviewed the employer's dossier and your documents, and all conditions are met, they will issue the Aviz de Muncă. This is a huge milestone, but remember, it’s not a visa. It's simply the document that allows you to apply for a Romanian long-stay visa for employment (Type D/AM visa) at the Romanian embassy or consulate in your home country or country of legal residence.

With your shiny new Aviz de Muncă in hand (or, more accurately, a copy sent to you by your employer), you then proceed to apply for your visa. The visa application will require additional documents, including the original work permit, proof of sufficient funds for your stay (even though you'll be working, they like to see you won't be a burden), health insurance (which will be crucial for your entire stay – more on this later), and proof of accommodation. This is where it really begins to feel real! Once the long-stay visa is granted, you can finally enter Romania. Upon arrival, you have a limited timeframe (usually 30 days) to apply for your actual residence permit with the IGI, which then truly legalizes your stay and work in Romania. It’s a multi-stage rocket launch, not a single hop!

Essential Documents and Requirements

Getting the documentation right is arguably the most stress-inducing part of the entire work permit process. It’s not just about collecting papers; it’s about making sure they’re precisely what the Romanian authorities need, in the right format. Trust me, they love their stamps and official translations!

Required Documents for the Employer

The onus is heavily on your employer to compile a robust application dossier. This includes a mix of company legal documents and declarations specific to your hiring. Here's a breakdown of what they typically need:

Company Registration Documents: Copies of the company's registration certificate from the Trade Register (Certificat de înregistrare), articles of association, and proof of good standing. This proves the company is a legitimate entity in Romania.
Proof of Solvency: Financial statements or bank statements demonstrating the company's ability to pay your salary and meet its other obligations. They need to show they're not going bankrupt tomorrow.
Job Description: A detailed description of your role, responsibilities, and the qualifications required. This must match your CV and diplomas perfectly.
Draft Employment Contract: A copy of the proposed employment contract, drafted in accordance with Romanian labour law. This will specify your salary, working hours, and other conditions, which will then be cross-referenced with your work permit category. Understanding Romanian Employment Contracts and Worker Rights (2027) is key for both parties.
Labour Market Test Results: If applicable, documentation from ANOFM confirming that no suitable Romanian or EU/EEA/Swiss candidates were identified for the position.
Declaration of No Prior Unpaid Obligations: A statement confirming the company has no outstanding tax or social security debts.
Proof of Office Space: Sometimes required, proof that the company has a legitimate operating address.

It’s a lot, and it highlights why it’s so important that your employer is experienced with these processes or has reliable legal counsel.

Documents You'll Need as the Applicant

Your personal document list is just as comprehensive and crucial. These documents are generally required for the work permit application itself, and then again for the long-stay visa and residence permit.

Valid Passport: Original and photocopies of your passport, ensuring it has at least 6 months validity beyond your intended visa/permit expiry date. Make sure it has enough blank pages too!
Curriculum Vitae (CV): An up-to-date CV, often required in Romanian or officially translated.
Educational Diplomas and Transcripts: Copies of your highest educational qualifications. For instance, if you have a Master's degree, provide that and the Bachelor's. As mentioned, these must be translated and often apostilled or super-legalized.
Proof of Professional Experience: Reference letters or previous employment certificates, especially if your qualifications don't directly correspond to your job title but your experience does.
Medical Certificate: A recent health certificate, issued by a recognized medical institution, stating that you are fit for work and do not have any contagious diseases. This is usually obtained in Romania if you are already here on another visa, or from an approved clinic in your home country.
Criminal Record Certificate: An original criminal record certificate from your country of origin and any country where you've resided for more than one year in the last five years. These documents are critical for demonstrating good character. Again, translations and apostilles are usually necessary.
Proof of Accommodation: While you might not have a long-term lease when applying for the Aviz de Muncă from abroad, you will need this for your visa and especially for your residence permit application in Romania. This could be a rental contract, a notarized declaration from someone offering you accommodation, or even a temporary hotel booking. Remember, this needs to be a solid plan, so if you're organizing your move, companies like Sirelo can assist with shipping your belongings, but finding a place to live is your next big hurdle.
Proof of Financial Means: Although your salary will eventually cover this, for the initial visa application, you might be asked to show proof of funds for your initial period of stay, even with a job offer. This could be bank statements.

Cross-checking your documents against the official IGI list and your employer’s specific requests is paramount.

The Importance of Translations and Legalizations

This cannot be stressed enough: Romanian authorities require most foreign-issued documents to be translated into Romanian by an authorized translator and, in many cases, to be apostilled or super-legalized.

Authorized Translations: An authorized translator is someone officially recognized by the Romanian Ministry of Justice. They will stamp and sign your translated documents, affirming their accuracy. Don't just get any translation; it must be an authorized one.
Apostille/Super-legalization: The Hague Apostille Convention simplifies the authentication of documents between member countries. If your home country is a member, you'll need to get an apostille on the original document (e.g., your birth certificate, criminal record) before you get it translated. If your country is not part of the Hague Convention, you'll need to go through the more complex "super-legalization" process, which often involves authentication by your country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and then by the Romanian Embassy/Consulate in your country.

Failing to get the correct translations and legalizations is one of the most common reasons for delays or rejections. It’s a meticulous process, so build in plenty of time for this step, and always confirm the exact requirements with your employer or the Romanian consulate.

Common Challenges and Troubleshooting for Work Permits

Even with the best preparation, the path to a Romanian work permit can be fraught with unexpected bumps. It’s a bureaucratic process, and that often means delays, confusion, and sometimes, a flat-out "no." Understanding these challenges upfront can help you mitigate them.

Navigating Bureaucracy and Delays

Let’s be honest: bureaucracy can be a nightmare anywhere, and Romania is no exception. While things are steadily improving, waiting times can still be frustratingly long. Here are some common pain points:

Appointments: Getting an appointment at the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) can be a challenge in itself, especially in major cities like Bucharest. The online booking system can be temperamental, and available slots fill up quickly. Your employer will usually handle the submission of the Aviz de Muncă dossier, but for your subsequent visa and residence permit applications, you might be in charge of booking. Keep checking, be flexible with your schedule, and remember that persistence pays off. For more on this, you can refer to How to Book an Appointment at the Immigration Office (IGI) in Romania.
Processing Times: Official processing times are one thing; reality can be another. Factors like the volume of applications, staff availability, and the complexity of your case can all affect how long it takes. It’s not uncommon for things to take weeks, or even a few months, from the initial submission of the work permit application to the final issuance of your residence permit.
Language Barrier: While many officials, especially in the IGI, speak some English, it’s not guaranteed. Having a Romanian-speaking colleague or a legal representative accompany your employer during submissions can greatly smooth the process and prevent misunderstandings.
Document Scrutiny: Authorities will meticulously check every single document. Even a minor discrepancy or missing signature can lead to your file being put on hold or returned for corrections. This is why thoroughness in preparation is absolutely essential.

My advice? Build patience into your moving timeline. Assume everything will take longer than you expect, and be pleasantly surprised if it doesn't.

Refusals and Appeals: What Went Wrong?

It’s disheartening, but work permit applications can sometimes be refused. While it’s certainly a setback, it’s not always the end of the road. Common reasons for refusal include:

Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation: This is by far the most frequent reason. Missing translations, expired certificates, un-apostilled documents, or inconsistencies between forms can all lead to rejection.
Unsuccessful Labour Market Test: If a suitable Romanian or EU/EEA candidate was found for the position, the Aviz de Muncă might be denied, especially if your role doesn't qualify for an exemption.
Employer Issues: The employer might fail to prove their solvency, or there could be issues with their company registration.
Applicant Issues: A criminal record, serious health concerns, or providing false information can also lead to refusal.

If your application is refused, you will usually receive a formal notification detailing the reasons. Depending on these reasons, you or your employer may have the right to appeal the decision within a certain timeframe (often 30 days) to a higher administrative body or even in court. An appeal typically involves addressing the specific reasons for refusal and providing additional documentation or clarification. This is where legal assistance from a Romanian immigration lawyer becomes invaluable. They can review the refusal, advise on the likelihood of a successful appeal, and help prepare the necessary documents.

The Importance of Staying Legal: Extensions and Changes

Your work permit and subsequent residence permit are not indefinite. They have expiration dates, and it’s your responsibility to ensure you stay legal throughout your stay in Romania.

Extensions/Renewals: Most work permits and residence permits are issued for one year initially. You must apply for an extension or renewal before your current permit expires. The process is similar to the initial application but usually less stringent. You'll need to prove continued employment, valid accommodation, and health insurance. Starting this process several months in advance of expiry is always recommended to avoid any gaps in your legal status.
Changing Jobs: If you decide to change employers in Romania, it’s not as simple as just getting a new contract. Generally, your Aviz de Muncă is tied to a specific employer and specific job role. A change of employer usually means your new employer will need to apply for a new work permit for you. This means going through much of the application process all over again. Be very mindful of this, as working for a new company without a valid work permit can lead to serious legal problems. Always consult with your new employer and immigration authorities before making any moves.

Staying on top of these deadlines and requirements is paramount. Falling out of legal status can lead to fines, deportation, and future bans from entering Romania or the Schengen Area.

Beyond the Work Permit: Residence and Integration

Receiving your Aviz de Muncă and then your long-stay visa are fantastic achievements, but they’re merely the initial phases. The ultimate goal for most expats is to establish legal residency and integrate into Romanian life. This next stage is about securing your actual right to live and work long-term in the country.

Transitioning to a Residence Permit

Once you arrive in Romania on your long-stay visa (Type D/AM), you have a short window – typically 30 days – to apply for your residence permit (Permis de Ședere) at the local General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) office. This permit is the physical card that proves your legal right to reside in Romania and is what you’ll present for most administrative tasks. The process for applying for a How to Apply for a Romanian Residence Permit (Permis de Ședere) involves another set of documents, which will largely overlap with what you submitted for your visa but will likely require originals for verification. You'll also go through a biometric data collection process, where your fingerprints and a photo will be taken for your biometric residence card.

The residence permit card itself is an essential piece of identification here. It contains your Personal Numeric Code (CNP), which is Romania's equivalent of a national ID number and is vital for almost everything from opening a bank account to getting a phone contract. You can delve deeper into How to Get Your CNP (Personal Numeric Code) for Healthcare Access in Romania if you're curious about its broader implications. Keep this card safe, as it’s your key to accessing public services and proving your identity.

One of the most immediate and critical aspects of living in Romania, especially as an expat, is understanding your healthcare obligations. For anyone working and residing in Romania, contributing to the public health insurance system (CASS – Contribuția de Asigurări Sociale de Sănătate) is mandatory. Your employer will automatically deduct this from your gross salary and pay it on your behalf, along with other social contributions like CAS (pension contributions). These contributions grant you access to the Romanian public healthcare system. Our comprehensive guide on Understanding Social Contributions (CAS and CASS) for Employees in Romania can give you a clearer picture.

However, many expats choose to supplement public healthcare with private health insurance or a private medical subscription. The public system, while providing essential care, can sometimes have longer waiting lists for specialists or feel less efficient, particularly if you don't speak Romanian. Private options offer quicker appointments, English-speaking doctors, and generally more comfortable facilities. When you're applying for your visa and residence permit, you'll need to show proof of health insurance. While your CASS contributions will kick in once you start working, it’s advisable to have private or travel insurance like Cigna Global to cover you for the initial period until your public health coverage is fully active and you’re familiar with the system. You can explore What Health Insurance Do I Need for a Romanian Residence Permit? for more detailed information.

What Happens If You Lose Your Job?

It’s an uncomfortable thought, but it’s crucial to know the implications if your employment situation changes unexpectedly. Since your residence permit is tied to your work permit, losing your job means the grounds for your stay in Romania are affected.

Typically, if your employment contract is terminated, your employer is obliged to inform the IGI. You usually have a grace period (often 30 days, but it can vary based on your specific permit and circumstances) to either find a new job and secure a new work permit, or change your residence permit category (e.g., to self-employed if you qualify), or leave the country. This isn't a situation to take lightly. Ignoring it can lead to your residence permit being revoked and you becoming an illegal resident, which carries severe penalties and can impact your ability to re-enter Romania or even other Schengen countries in the future.

If you find yourself in this situation, immediate action is required. Consult with an immigration lawyer or the IGI directly to understand your options and the exact timeframe you have. Planning for such contingencies is part of the expat journey, and having a clear understanding of the rules can save you a lot of stress should the unexpected occur. As you settle into your new life, remember to also read our guide on The Complete Guide to Moving to Romania: Your First 90 Days (2027) to help you navigate all the initial steps.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this guide is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or immigration advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, regulations and procedures in Romania can change frequently. We strongly recommend consulting with an authorized Romanian immigration lawyer or the official General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) for personalized advice tailored to your specific situation. Reliance on any information in this guide is solely at your own risk.

Understanding Work Permits (Aviz de Muncă) for Foreigners in Romania