Obtaining the Romanian Citizenship: A Comprehensive Guide

Romanian citizenship can be acquired through several legal pathways, including birth, descent, adoption, and naturalization. Each of these routes has specific requirements and procedures established by Romanian law. Acquiring Romanian citizenship provides numerous benefits, including the right to live, work, and travel freely within the European Union (EU).

Below is a detailed overview of the different ways to obtain Romanian citizenship.

1. Romanian Citizenship by Birth

Under Romanian law, citizenship is automatically granted to individuals born from at least one Romanian parent at the time of birth. This principle, known as jus sanguinis (right of blood), ensures that Romanian nationality is passed down to children, regardless of where they are born.

Children found abandoned in Romania are also granted Romanian citizenship if their parents' identity is unknown.

2. Romanian Citizenship by Descent (Ancestry)

One of the most common ways to obtain Romanian citizenship is through descent. If you have Romanian parents, grandparents, or even, in specific cases, great-grandparents, you may be eligible to apply for Romanian citizenship by descent. This process is particularly popular among individuals with Romanian ancestry who live in countries such as Canada, Moldova, Ukraine, and Israel.

To apply, you must provide official documentation proving your Romanian lineage, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates and other legal records. In addition, with some exceptions, the applicants must have Romanian language knowledge.

Applicants must submit their requests directly to the National Citizenship Authority (Autoritatea Națională pentru Cetățenie – NCA) or to the competent Romanian embassy/consulate in the state of residence. After the submission, NAC evaluates the case and grants citizenship if all requirements are met.

After the order approving the granting of the Romanian citizenship is issued, the applicants must take an oath of allegiance to Romania. Subsequently, a citizenship certificate will be granted.

3. Romanian Citizenship by Adoption

Foreign children adopted by Romanian citizens can acquire Romanian citizenship. The adoption must be legally recognized by the Romanian authorities. If the child is under 18 at the time of adoption, they automatically gain Romanian citizenship upon the finalization of the adoption process.

4. Romanian Citizenship by Naturalization

Foreigners who do not have Romanian ancestry can obtain citizenship through naturalization. To qualify, an applicant must meet the following criteria:

• Reside legally in Romania for at least 8 years (or 5 years if married to a Romanian citizen).

• Demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the Romanian language.

• Have a clean criminal record and be of good moral character.

• Show integration into Romanian society by understanding Romanian culture, history, and the Constitution.

• Provide proof of a stable income and legal means of support.

Those who meet these conditions can apply through the National Citizenship Authority. The process includes interviews and evaluations to ensure the applicant meets all requirements. If the application is successful, the applicant must take an oath of allegiance to Romania before officially becoming a Romanian citizen.

Obtaining the Romanian citizenship is a valuable opportunity, particularly for individuals with Romanian heritage or those seeking EU citizenship. While the process can be time-consuming and require extensive documentation, the benefits of Romanian nationality make it worthwhile. Whether through birth, descent, adoption, or naturalization, becoming a Romanian citizen grants access to numerous rights and privileges within Romania and the European Union.

Should you require any assistance with obtaining the Romanian citizenship, we are here to provide our support.