Romania continues to attract entrepreneurs and investors from across the globe. With one of the most business-friendly tax rates in the European Union, a strategic geographic location, and an increasingly digital administration, the country offers fertile ground for those looking to launch a new venture.
But whether you’re a Romanian citizen or a foreign national, starting a business here means navigating a clear—but structured—bureaucratic process. In this 2025 guide, we walk you through every significant step you need to know.
Choosing the Right Legal Structure
Before registering your business, you will need to select the appropriate legal form. Each comes with different capital requirements, obligations, and operational flexibility.
The most common business types in Romania include:
- SRL (Societate cu Răspundere Limitată) — The most popular type of company for SMES. It can have one or more shareholders and requires minimal capital (just 1 RON).
- SA (Societate pe Acțiuni) — Ideal for larger ventures. It requires at least two shareholders and a minimum share capital of 90,000 Romanian Lei (RON).
- PFA (Persoană Fizică Autorizată) — A self-employed or freelance status, suited for professionals and service providers.
- Branch or Representative Office — For foreign companies that want to enter the Romanian market without creating a new legal entity.
Your business activity and expansion plans will largely determine which type best suits your needs.
Step-by-Step Company Formation Process
Reserving a Company Name
Start by checking and reserving your desired company name at the National Trade Register Office (ONRC). It’s a quick process, and the name will be held for you for three months.
Establishing a Registered Office
Your company must have a legally registered address in Romania. This can be your business premises, a co-working space with a hosting agreement, or the address of a lawyer or accountant.
Drafting Incorporation Documents
Key documents required at this stage include:
- Articles of Association, which outline your company’s scope, ownership structure, and operations
- Copies of ID/passport documents for all shareholders and directors
- Proof of registered office
- Specimen signatures
- Affidavits confirming the legal capacity of founders and managers
These documents must be filed in Romanian, and many business owners choose to work with a local lawyer or consultant to ensure accuracy.
Opening a Bank Account and Depositing Capital
To register your business, you must open a corporate bank account and deposit the minimum required share capital. For an SRL, the law allows a symbolic deposit; however, many opt for a more practical amount to reflect their actual startup budget.
Submitting Your Application to the Trade Register
Once your documents are in order, please submit them to the local Office of the National Register of Citizens (ONRC) office. Within 3–5 working days, your company will receive:
- A unique company identification number (CUI)
- Confirmation of your company’s legal status
- Official incorporation in the Romanian Commercial Register
Registering for Taxes and VAT (if needed)
After incorporation, register with ANAF (the Romanian tax authority) to obtain your tax registration certificate. If your estimated annual turnover exceeds 300,000 RON, you are also required to register for VAT. You can optionally register earlier if your business is involved in cross-border services within the EU.
Post-Incorporation: Accounting, Contracts, and Compliance
Romanian law requires Romanian companies to use licensed accountants for bookkeeping and tax filings. Ensure that you hire a certified professional who understands both local regulations and international reporting requirements when operating across borders.
Be aware of your responsibilities as an employer or self-employed individual:
- Register employment contracts with REVISAL (the national labour registry)
- File monthly salary declarations
- Contribute to pension, health, and labour insurance funds
Additionally, depending on your field of activity, you may require sector-specific permits (e.g., for healthcare, education, financial services, or hospitality).
Timeline and Costs
The whole registration process for an SRL typically takes 7 to 10 working days, provided the documents are in order. Total startup costs, including registration fees, translations, legal advice, and administrative services, range between €300 and €800, depending on the complexity.
Foreign Investors: Additional Notes
Romania welcomes foreign ownership, and there’s no requirement for a local partner. Foreign investors may face additional documentation requirements, including translated and legalised documents, but otherwise enjoy the same legal protections and access to Romanian courts and institutions.
Keep in mind:
- You may need to travel in person to open a corporate bank account
- Non-EU investors who wish to conduct business activities in Romania must apply for a residence permit for commercial purposes.
- Legal representation, whether by a Romanian lawyer or notary, is highly recommended to handle correspondence and filings.
Starting a company in Romania in 2025 is easier than ever; however, preparation is crucial. From selecting the proper business structure to completing tax registrations and obtaining the necessary licenses, following the correct steps will ensure a smooth entry into the Romanian market.
Whether you’re launching a local venture or expanding your international footprint, Romania offers a stable and increasingly digitalised business environment. With proper support and clear documentation, you’ll be operational in no time.
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