The Romanian citizenship authority has officially released the complete list of documents required from foreign nationals seeking naturalisation. The detailed checklist covers identity records, residential history, financial standing, criminal background, and family status, providing clarity for applicants navigating the legal process.
Residence and Identity Documents
At the core of the application is proof of legal residence in Romania. Foreigners must obtain a certificate from the General Inspectorate for Immigration confirming at least eight years of lawful residence in the country. For individuals married to a Romanian citizen, the residence requirement is reduced, provided permanent residence was granted during that marriage.
Applicants must submit a notarised copy of their passport accompanied by a certified Romanian translation. A copy of the permanent residence permit is also required, along with original birth and marriage certificates bearing either an Apostille stamp or superlegalization from the relevant embassy. If the spouse is a Romanian citizen, a notarised copy of that spouse's identity document must be included.
Documents for Children
For applicants with minor children, notarised and Apostille-certified copies of each child's birth certificate must be provided. A notarised parental consent statement is required for the children to acquire Romanian citizenship. If a child is aged 14 or older, they must give their own written consent through a notarised statement made in the presence of one parent.
Criminal Record Certificates
Every applicant must present a criminal record certificate issued within Romania, as well as a foreign criminal record certificate in its original form. The foreign certificate must bear the appropriate Apostille or superlegalization and include a certified Romanian translation.
Proof of Accommodation
Applicants must demonstrate they have lawful accommodation in Romania. Acceptable documentation includes a notarised copy of a lease agreement, a sales agreement, a bailment agreement, or a notarised statement from a property owner confirming they have agreed to house the applicant. Each option must be accompanied by a Land Registry extract for the property concerned.
Financial Means and Income Evidence
To prove they can support themselves legally, applicants must provide evidence of income earned in Romania over the preceding three years. For business owners, company incorporation documents and dividend distribution records are accepted. Employees can submit a certified employment contract along with a net salary certificate. Those earning rental or leasing income may provide income statements and certificates from the National Agency for Fiscal Administration. Pension slips and other official income documentation are also acceptable.
A notarised personal statement must accompany every application. In this statement, the applicant declares that they have never undertaken or supported activities that threaten Romania's legal order or national security, and do not intend to do so in the future.
