Romania offers one of Europe's most generous citizenship by descent programs, allowing descendants up to the third generation (parent, grandparent, OR great-grandparent) to reclaim their Romanian heritage and obtain EU citizenship.
This extraordinary opportunity extends not only to those with ancestors from present-day Romania, but also to descendants of individuals born in former Romanian territories between 1918-1940, including regions that are now part of Moldova, Ukraine, Serbia, and Bulgaria.
Following Romania's entry into the Schengen Area on January 1, 2025, the Romanian passport has become one of the most valuable travel documents in the world, offering visa-free access to 180+ destinations and the right to live, work, and study across all 27 EU member states.
Important 2025 Update: As of March 15, 2025, Law 14/2025 introduced new requirements, including mandatory B1-level Romanian language proficiency for most citizenship by descent applicants. This guide reflects all current requirements and procedures.
Historical Background: Romanian Emigration to North America
Early Migration and Austro-Hungarian Era (Pre-1918)
Before 1918, Romania as we know it today did not exist in its current form. The Romanian people were divided across multiple territories within the Austro-Hungarian Empire, particularly Transylvania (which was part of Hungary), Bukovina (under Austrian administration), and the independent Romanian Old Kingdom (which included Wallachia and Moldavia).
Transylvania Under Hungarian Rule (Pre-1918): From the 11th century until 1918, Transylvania was part of the Kingdom of Hungary and later the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Ethnic Romanians formed the majority population in many rural areas but faced significant economic hardships and limited political rights under Hungarian administration.
The Great Wave of Emigration (1895-1920)
Peak Period (1900-1914): The first decade of the 20th century witnessed the most intense Romanian emigration to North America. During this period alone, approximately (which had a total population of 4.8 million in 1900) emigrated to the United States. Between 1895 and 1920, an estimated arrived in America, with the vast majority coming through Ellis Island.
Demographic boom: Rapid population growth in Transylvania's rural areas in the 19th century created a surplus of young people facing unemployment
Land scarcity: The 1895 statistics showed 884,000 properties smaller than 50 hectares, with half (442,000) smaller than 2.8 hectares, insufficient to support families
Agrarian poverty: Primitive agriculture methods, inadequate employment opportunities, and extreme poverty in rural communities
Political marginalization: Limited rights for ethnic Romanians under Hungarian administration
Compulsory military service: All men under 50 were bound to the territory for potential military conscription
Pull Factors:
American industrial expansion: Opportunities for regular wages ($1.50/day for unskilled labor, far more than in Romania)
Homestead Act (1862): Free land for settlers willing to farm in the American West
Active recruitment: Steamship companies and labor agents promoted American opportunities
Word-of-mouth: Letters and remittances from early emigrants encouraged others to follow
Transportation revolution: Steam-powered ocean liners made transatlantic travel faster and more affordable
Demographics of Emigrants:
Young and mobile: Average age 28, primarily in prime productive years
Initially male-dominated: Early waves were overwhelmingly young men seeking work
High literacy: Compared to other immigrant groups, Romanian emigrants had relatively high literacy rates
Economic motivation: Most intended to work temporarily, save money, and return to buy land in Romania, though many stayed permanently
Return migration: About 20% returned annually, earning Romanians the nickname "long-distance commuters"
Settlement Patterns in the United States:
Pennsylvania (Primary destination): More than half of all Romanian immigrants settled in Pennsylvania, working in coal mines, steel mills, and factories. Key cities: Pittsburgh, Bethlehem, Philadelphia
Ohio: Cleveland became a major Romanian center, along with Youngstown (steel industry)
Great Lakes Region: Chicago, Detroit, and other industrial cities attracted Romanian workers
New York: Significant Romanian communities, particularly Romanian Jews
Delaware: Industrial work opportunities
Other areas: Smaller communities in Illinois, Michigan, New Jersey, Connecticut
Working Conditions:
Industrial labor: Most worked in coal mines, steel mills, foundries, and factories
Harsh conditions: 10-12 hour days, 6-7 days per week, extremely hazardous work
Thousands died: Industrial accidents claimed many Romanian workers' lives
Wage discrimination: Eastern Europeans earned $1.50/day for unskilled work, while native-born Americans earned $2-3/day for skilled positions
Dangerous environments: Coal mining and steel production were among the most dangerous occupations
Establishment of Greater Romania (1918)
December 1, 1918 (Great Union Day): Following the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire at the end of World War I, Romanian representatives from Transylvania voted for union with the Romanian Kingdom at the Alba Iulia Assembly. This historic moment created Greater Romania, uniting Transylvania, Bukovina, Bessarabia, and the Romanian Old Kingdom for the first time in history.
Territorial Gains (1918-1920):
Transylvania: Transferred from Hungary to Romania
Bukovina: Transferred from Austria to Romania
Bessarabia: United with Romania (today's Republic of Moldova)
Dobrogea: Retained from earlier territorial gains
This created the largest Romanian state in history, with territories that would later be partially lost during World War II.
Interwar Period (1918-1940)
Reduced Emigration (1920s-1930s): Romanian emigration to the United States decreased significantly during the interwar period due to:
U.S. Immigration Act of 1924 (Johnson-Reed Act): Imposed strict quotas limiting immigration from Eastern and Southern Europe. The Romanian quota was drastically reduced, ending the era of mass migration.
Economic development in Romania: Some improvement in economic conditions following the creation of Greater Romania
Land reform: The 1921 Agrarian Reform Law redistributed land, improving conditions for peasants
Alternative Destinations: With U.S. immigration restricted, some Romanians emigrated to:
Canada: Became increasingly popular destination
France: Attracted Romanian workers
Latin America: Argentina and Brazil received some Romanian emigrants
Romanian Jewish Emigration: Between 1881-1914, approximately 75,000 Romanian Jews emigrated, mostly to the United States, fleeing discrimination and seeking economic opportunities. This flow continued in the interwar period, especially after the rise of fascism in the 1930s.
World War II and Territorial Losses (1940-1945)
Territorial Changes (1940):
Bessarabia and Northern Bukovina: Ceded to Soviet Union (June 1940) under Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact pressure
Northern Transylvania: Ceded to Hungary (August 1940) under Second Vienna Award imposed by Nazi Germany
Southern Dobrogea: Ceded to Bulgaria (September 1940)
Population Transfers (1940-1944):
220,000 ethnic Romanians relocated from Northern Transylvania (under Hungarian control) to Romanian territory
160,000 ethnic Hungarians relocated from Romanian to Hungarian territories
Population exchange agreements created massive displacement
The Holocaust in Romania:
Jewish deportations: The bulk of the Jewish population living in Romanian-controlled territories was deported during WWII
780,000 Jews lived in Romania's present territory before the war; approximately half perished in the Holocaust
Deportations carried out by both Romanian and Hungarian authorities depending on territorial control
Some areas under direct Romanian control (like Bucharest) saw lower deportation rates, while areas like Transnistria witnessed mass killings
Ethnic German Deportations (Post-WWII):
70,000 ethnic Germans (Transylvanian Saxons and Banat Swabians) deported to Soviet Union after WWII
Many more forcibly relocated within Romanian territory
German communities that had existed for centuries were devastated
Communist Era (1947-1989): The Closed Border
Communist Takeover (December 1947): Following Soviet pressure, Romania's King Michael I was forced to abdicate, and a communist regime was established, aligning Romania firmly within the Soviet sphere of influence.
Restrictive Exit Policies: The Romanian communist authorities exercised some of the most restrictive exit policies in Eastern Europe, severely limiting citizens' ability to travel internationally or emigrate:
Passport control: Police held passports; prior approval from authorities required to obtain travel documents
Stigmatization: Those applying to emigrate had social and economic rights revoked and faced harassment
"Europe's bloodiest border": The Danube frontier with Yugoslavia witnessed desperate escape attempts; many died trying to flee
Defections: High-profile defectors like intelligence chief Ion Mihai Pacepa (1978) made international headlines
Controlled Emigration for Revenue: While general emigration was severely restricted, the regime selectively allowed certain ethnic minorities to leave in exchange for hard currency:
Ethnic German Emigration (1969-1989):
220,000 ethnic Germans (Transylvanian Saxons and Banat Swabians) emigrated to West Germany
Family reunification pretexts used to justify departures
Romanian state secured over 2 billion Deutsche Marks from West Germany as de facto ransom payments (approximately 4,000-10,000 DM per person)
By 1989, ethnic German population dropped from 400,000 (1948) to under 100,000
Jewish Aliyah (1958-1989):
The regime permitted waves of Jewish emigration to Israel in exchange for funds from Israel and diaspora organizations
1958-1966 alone: Over 106,200 Romanian Jews relocated to Israel
Total during communist era: Between 300,000-350,000 Jews emigrated
Romanian Jewish community, once numbering hundreds of thousands, was reduced to a small fraction
Ethnic Romanian Emigration (Minimal):
For ethnic Romanians, emigration remained virtually impossible without party approval
Limited to sporadic defections by high-profile individuals (athletes, artists granted temporary travel who sought asylum)
Illegal escapes involved desperate attempts, swimming the Danube, crossing under cover of night
Those caught faced imprisonment, torture, and severe persecution
Annual outflows numbered in the low tens of thousands at peak, far below pre-war or post-1989 levels
Romanian Revolution and Post-Communist Emigration (1989-Present)
December 1989 Revolution: Romania's communist regime fell in spectacular and violent fashion in December 1989. Unlike peaceful transitions in neighboring countries, Romania's revolution resulted in street fighting, approximately 1,100 deaths, and the execution of dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu and his wife Elena on December 25, 1989.
Initial Post-1989 Wave (1990s):
Immediate aftermath: Economic chaos, hyperinflation exceeding 250% annually in early 1990s, unemployment surging to 11%
Failed privatizations: Painful transition from centrally planned to market economy
Poverty rates: Over 20% of population in extreme poverty during 1990s
Primary destinations: Germany, Hungary, Israel, United States, Canada became major destinations for Romanian emigrants
Political refugees: Many fled after the violent Mineriad of June 13-15, 1990 when miners attacked pro-democracy protesters
EU Accession and Mass Migration (2007-Present):
January 1, 2007: Romania joined the European Union
500,000 people left Romania in 2007 alone, one of the largest single-year emigrations in European history
Liberalization (1999, 2002, 2007): Progressive relaxation of travel and residence restrictions
Primary EU destinations: Italy (over 1 million Romanians), Spain (over 600,000 at peak), United Kingdom, Germany, France
Economic migration: Persistent wage disparities (Romania's average monthly salary €1,045 in 2024 vs. Italy €2,500+, Germany €4,000+)
Labor mobility: Romanians took advantage of EU freedom of movement to seek better-paid employment across Western Europe
Schengen Area (2025):
January 1, 2025: Romania officially joined the Schengen Area as a full member
This makes the Romanian passport one of the most powerful travel documents, with enhanced mobility across Europe
Romanian Diaspora Today (2025)
Total Global Diaspora: Estimated 8-12 million people of Romanian descent live outside Romania (Romania's current population is approximately 19 million, meaning nearly 40% of all ethnic Romanians live abroad).
Major Romanian Communities Worldwide:
United States (Largest Non-EU Community):
425,000-1.2 million (estimates vary significantly; 2023 American Community Survey reported 425,738, but Romanian-American Network estimates 1.2 million of full or partial Romanian ancestry)
225,000 additional Romanian Jewish ancestry
Primary states: New York (largest), Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois, California, Florida, Michigan
Historic communities: Cleveland, Chicago, Detroit, Pittsburgh (established in late 19th/early 20th century)
Recent communities: New York City, Los Angeles, Florida (established post-1989)
Canada:
215,885 Romanian Canadians (2021 census)
Primary cities: Greater Toronto Area (~75,000), Greater Montreal Area (~40,000), Vancouver
Historical settlement: Prairie provinces (Saskatchewan, Alberta) from late 1890s; Bukovina Romanians established farming communities
Italy (Largest Diaspora Community):
1,145,718 Romanian citizens (2019), over 1 million total
Became significant population after 1999
Romance language similarity facilitated integration
Spain:
600,000+ at peak (2011), decreased to approximately 400,000-500,000
Exploded after 2002 when Romanians obtained visa-free Schengen travel
Romance language similarity
Other Major Communities:
Germany: 800,000+ (includes ethnic Germans from Romania)
Moldova: Special case, many ethnic Romanians, shared language and culture
Israel: Large community from Jewish emigration
Australia: 70,000-100,000
Latin America: Argentina, Brazil, Venezuela (smaller historic communities)
Eligibility Criteria
Romanian citizenship by descent is governed by Law 21/1991 (as amended by Law 14/2025), with two primary legal pathways:
Article 10: Reacquisition of Lost Citizenship
Who Qualifies:
Individuals who were Romanian citizens and lost citizenship (or their descendants)
Individuals whose parent or grandparent was a Romanian citizen at any point in their lifetime
Direct biological descendants up to the second degree (parent/grandparent level)
Key Requirements:
The ancestor must have been a Romanian citizen at some point
If your parent lost citizenship, they may need to reacquire it first before you can apply
Proof that citizenship was lost (through emigration, naturalization elsewhere, or involuntary loss)
"Direct Citizenship" Possibility: In some cases under Article 10, you may be considered to already be a citizen rather than needing to apply. This occurs when:
You have a parent who was a Romanian citizen when you were born, is still alive, and never formally lost citizenship
Your birth was registered in Romanian civil status registers (even if born abroad), very rare cases
If you qualify for "direct citizenship," you do not need Romanian language proficiency, you simply need to register your existing citizenship and obtain a passport.
Article 11: Former Territory Citizenship
Who Qualifies:
Descendants (up to third degree, parent, grandparent, OR great-grandparent) of individuals born in territories that belonged to the Kingdom of Romania between 1918 and 1940
Former Romanian Territories (1918-1940):
Bessarabia: Now Republic of Moldova and parts of southwestern Ukraine (Budjak region)
Northern Bukovina: Now part of Ukraine (Chernivtsi Oblast)
Herța region: Now part of Ukraine
Cadrilater (Southern Dobrogea): Now part of Bulgaria
Northern Transylvania: Part of Romania 1918-1940, ceded to Hungary 1940-1944, returned to Romania 1944-present
Key Requirements:
Ancestor must have been born in these territories while they were part of Romania (1918-1940)
Must prove territorial birth location through birth certificates or historical records
Can extend to great-grandchildren, making this one of Europe's most generous programs
Ancestor does not necessarily need to have formally held Romanian citizenship if territorial birth can be proven
Important Distinction: Article 11(2) contains a special clause allowing restoration even if documentation is incomplete, as long as territorial origin can be proven. This has helped many applicants with partial records.
Critical Eligibility Factors
Generational Limits:
Parent or Grandparent (Article 10): Most common pathway; relatively straightforward with complete documentation
Great-grandparent (Article 11): Available only if great-grandparent was born in former Romanian territory (1918-1940); requires more extensive documentation
Great-great-grandparent and beyond:NOT eligible under current law
Adopted children: Only if adopted as minors and adoption recognized in Romania
Spouses, stepchildren (not adopted), and other relatives do not qualify
Deceased vs. Living Ancestors:
If ancestor is deceased and you're applying under Article 10: Must prove they departed present-day Romania on or after 1949 and that their child (your parent/grandparent) is still alive
If ancestor is alive: Different documentation requirements; they may need to reacquire citizenship first
Special Historical Considerations:
Emigration Before 1918: If your ancestor emigrated from Transylvania, Bukovina, or Bessarabia before 1918, they were not Romanian citizens at the time of departure (they were Austro-Hungarian subjects or Russian subjects). However, you may still qualify under Article 11 if they were born in territories that became part of Romania 1918-1940.
Name Changes: Common due to marriage, transliteration differences (Romanian to English), or deliberate Americanization. You must provide documentation for every name change across all generations.
Mixed Ancestry: If you have both Romanian and other ancestry, you only need one qualifying Romanian ancestor to apply.
Automatic Citizenship from Birth
Some individuals may already be Romanian citizens without realizing it:
Born to a Romanian citizen parent (even if born abroad)
Birth was registered with Romanian consular authorities
Parent never formally renounced Romanian citizenship
If this applies to you, you don't "apply" for citizenship, you simply need to obtain a Certificate of Citizenship documenting your existing status, then apply for a Romanian passport. This pathway requires no language proficiency regardless of 2025 law changes.
Required Documents
Romanian citizenship by descent requires extensive documentation to prove lineage, identity, and eligibility. All documents must be recent, apostilled/legalized, and officially translated into Romanian.
Personal Documents (For You, the Applicant)
Identity and Status:
Valid passport: Current passport from your country of citizenship
Long-form birth certificate: Certified original or copy showing both parents' names
Marriage certificate: If applicable, especially if your name changed through marriage
Divorce decree or death certificate of spouse: If applicable
2 passport photos: Recent, 3.5 x 4.5 cm, on white background
Proof of residence: Utility bill, lease agreement, or similar document from your current country
Criminal Record Certificates (CRITICAL REQUIREMENT):
This is often the most complex aspect of the application. You must obtain:
Extract from criminal record of each country where you are or have been a citizen
Extract from criminal record of each country where you resided for more than 180 consecutive days within the last 15 years
Examples:
U.S. citizens: FBI Identity History Summary Check (federal level) AND state criminal records if lived 180+ days in specific states
Canadian citizens: RCMP Criminal Record Check (federal level)
U.K. citizens: ACRO Police Certificate
Multiple countries: If you lived in multiple countries, you need records from each
Critical Requirements for Criminal Records:
Must be not older than 6 months (some sources say 3 months) from application submission
Must be apostilled (or super-legalized for non-Hague Convention countries)
Must be officially translated into Romanian by certified translator
Missing criminal records from required jurisdictions will result in automatic rejection
Generational Link Documents (Proving Lineage)
You must provide complete documentation for every generation connecting you to your Romanian ancestor:
For Parent Claims:
Your birth certificate (showing your parent's name)
Parent's birth certificate (showing birth in Romania or Romanian citizenship)
Parent's marriage certificate (if name changed)
Parent's proof of Romanian citizenship (old Romanian passport, citizenship certificate, ID card)
For Grandparent Claims:
Your birth certificate
Your parent's birth certificate
Your grandparent's birth certificate (showing birth in Romania or former territory)
All marriage certificates in the chain
Grandparent's proof of Romanian citizenship
For Great-grandparent Claims (Article 11 only):
Your birth certificate
Your parent's birth certificate
Your grandparent's birth certificate
Your great-grandparent's birth certificate (showing birth in Romanian territory 1918-1940)
All marriage certificates for every generation
Great-grandparent's proof of birth in former Romanian territory
Proof of Ancestor's Romanian Citizenship or Territorial Birth
Best Evidence (Strongest Documentation):
Old Romanian passport: From before emigration (strongest possible evidence)
Romanian citizenship certificate (Certificat de cetățenie): Official document proving citizenship
Romanian national ID card: Historic identification card
Romanian birth certificate: Showing birth in Romania or former territories (proves location, strong indicator of citizenship)
Military records: Service in Romanian armed forces
Voter registration: From Romanian elections
Property records: Land ownership in Romania
Acceptable Supporting Evidence:
Passenger ship manifests: Showing departure from Romanian ports or arrival in U.S./Canada from Romania
U.S./Canadian naturalization papers: Often explicitly state "Romanian" or "Rumanian" citizenship/nationality
Census records: Romanian census records or U.S./Canadian census showing Romanian birthplace
Church records: Baptismal, marriage, or burial records from Romanian parishes
Emigration permits: If ancestor legally departed Romania
School records: From Romanian institutions
For Former Territory Claims (Article 11):
Birth certificate showing birth location in Bessarabia, Bukovina, Northern Transylvania, or Cadrilater
Historical maps and documents proving location was within Romanian borders 1918-1940
Town/village records from Romanian archives
Proof of Citizenship Loss (Important): To establish that your ancestor was Romanian but lost citizenship, you may need:
Naturalization certificate from another country (U.S., Canada, etc.) showing they became a foreign citizen
Certificate of Release from Romanian citizenship
Documentation showing long-term residence abroad and non-registration of children with Romanian consular authorities
Authentication and Translation (CRITICAL REQUIREMENTS)
Authentication (Apostille or Super-Legalization):
All foreign documents must be authenticated to be recognized by Romanian authorities:
From Hague Convention Countries (including U.S., Canada, U.K., Australia, most of Europe):
Documents must have an Apostille stamp from the competent authority
U.S.: Apostille obtained from Secretary of State of the state where document was issued
Example: California birth certificate = Apostille from California Secretary of State
Federal documents (FBI criminal record) = U.S. Department of State Apostille
Canada: Authentication by Global Affairs Canada, then apostilled
Cost: $20-100 per document depending on jurisdiction
Timeline: 1-6 weeks depending on state/province backlog
From Non-Hague Convention Countries:
Super-legalization required: More complex multi-step authentication through multiple government agencies
Typically involves: Document authentication → Ministry of Foreign Affairs → Romanian Embassy/Consulate
More expensive and time-consuming than Apostille
Translation into Romanian:
All non-Romanian documents must be officially translated by:
Certified/sworn translator (traducător autorizat): Registered with Romanian Ministry of Justice or Romanian courts
Translators must have official registration numbers
Translation must include translator's stamp, signature, and registration information
Cost: €50-150 per page depending on complexity and translator
Typical application: 15-25 pages of documents
Total translation costs: €750-3,750 ($800-4,000)
CRITICAL: Romanian authorities are extremely strict about translation quality and certification. Using non-certified translators or poor-quality translations results in automatic rejection and months of delays.
Language Proficiency Certificate (NEW 2025 REQUIREMENT)
As of March 15, 2025 (Law 14/2025), most citizenship by descent applicants must prove B1-level Romanian language proficiency.
Who Must Provide Language Certificate:
Anyone applying under Article 10 (reacquisition after parent/grandparent) who was not born in Romania and never held Romanian citizenship
Anyone applying under Article 11 (former territories)
Who Is EXEMPT from Language Requirement:
Applicants over 65 years old
Former Romanian citizens reacquiring citizenship (you already had it before)
Individuals who can prove they are already citizens ("direct citizenship" cases)
Individuals born in Romania (even if they left as children)
Accepted Proof of B1 Romanian Language Proficiency:
B1 Certificate from Accredited Institution:
Must be issued by institution accredited by Romanian Ministry of Education
Must specifically certify B1 level (intermediate)
Most common and straightforward option
Educational Transcript:
High school or university transcript showing you studied Romanian language for at least 3 years
Must be official transcript, apostilled, and translated
Romanian Cultural Institution Certificate:
Certificate issued by Romanian cultural institutions (in Romania or abroad)
Attesting that you know Romanian at B1 level
Less common but acceptable
What B1 Level Means (CEFR Framework):
Understand the main points of clear standard Romanian on familiar matters (work, school, leisure)
Handle most situations likely to arise while traveling in Romania
Produce simple connected text on familiar topics
Describe experiences, events, dreams, hopes, and ambitions
Give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans
How to Obtain B1 Certificate:
Option 1: Online Romanian Language Courses (Easiest for Foreign Applicants):
Several Romanian language schools offer online B1 preparation courses specifically designed for citizenship applicants
Duration: 3-6 months of study (depending on starting level)
Cost: €300-800 for course + exam
Flexible schedules for working professionals
Final exam results in official B1 certificate
Option 2: Romanian Cultural Centers:
Romanian Cultural Institute (ICR) has offices in many countries
May offer Romanian language courses and testing
Check availability in your country
Option 3: In-Person in Romania:
Language schools in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timișoara, and other cities
Most intensive and effective, but requires travel to Romania
1-3 month intensive courses available
Timeline Consideration: If you don't currently speak Romanian, plan for 4-6 months of language study before you can obtain B1 certificate. This should be factored into your total timeline.
Application Process
The Romanian citizenship by descent application process is complex, lengthy, and involves multiple stages. Realistic timeline: 2-5 years (can be accelerated through legal intervention).
Step 1: Verify Eligibility and Determine Pathway (2-3 months)
Actions:
Research your family history thoroughly
Determine which ancestor qualifies (parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent)
Identify whether you qualify under Article 10 (reacquisition) or Article 11 (former territory)
Assess whether you might already be a citizen ("direct citizenship") or need to apply
Evaluate available documentation and identify gaps
Key Decisions:
Which ancestor provides the strongest claim?
Do you have sufficient documentation, or will you need genealogical research?
Do you qualify for language exemption (over 65, former citizen) or need to begin Romanian language study?
Step 2: Gather Family Documents (3-12 months)
Personal Documents:
Obtain recent birth certificates, marriage certificates, divorce decrees
Request passport photos
Gather proof of residence
Collect all personal documentation
Ancestral Documents:
Contact family members for old documents (Romanian passports, citizenship certificates, birth certificates)
Search family archives, storage boxes, attics for historic records
Request documents from relatives in Romania if ancestor left documents there
Vital Records Requests:
U.S.: Request birth/death/marriage certificates from state vital records offices ($15-50 each, 2-8 weeks)
Canada: Provincial vital statistics agencies
Other countries: Appropriate government agencies
If Documents Are Missing or Incomplete: You may need professional genealogical research (Step 3).
Step 3: Genealogical Research (If Needed) (3-6 months)
If critical documents are missing, you'll likely need professional help:
Romanian Archives Research:
Romanian National Archives (Bucharest): Central repository for historic records
Regional archives: Cluj-Napoca, Iași, Timișoara, Brașov, and others hold local records
Church archives: Parish records from Romanian Orthodox, Greek Catholic, Roman Catholic, Lutheran churches
Civil status offices: Municipal/town halls (Primăria) maintain birth, marriage, death registers
Types of Records Available:
Birth, marriage, death certificates (civil registration began in Romania in 1830s-1850s depending on region)
Church baptismal, marriage, burial records (going back centuries)
Census records (various periods)
Military conscription records
Property records (cadastral records)
School records
Hiring Professional Genealogists:
Romanian genealogists specializing in citizenship cases can access archives you cannot
Fluent in Romanian, familiar with historical record-keeping systems
Can navigate bureaucracy, read old scripts (Cyrillic, old Romanian orthography)
Cost: €500-2,500 ($550-2,750) depending on complexity and time required
Timeline: 2-6 months depending on research depth
For Former Territory Research (Article 11):
Moldova: Moldovan State Archives, church records
Ukraine (Bukovina): Chernivtsi Oblast Archives, Ukrainian Central Archives
Bulgaria (Cadrilater): Bulgarian State Archives
Research in these countries often requires local genealogists familiar with the archives
Step 4: Obtain Criminal Record Certificates (1-3 months)
Critical Planning: Criminal records must be not older than 6 months (possibly 3 months) at time of application submission, so time this step carefully, request criminal records approximately 3-4 months before you plan to submit your application.
State criminal records: If resided 180+ days in past 15 years, request from each state ($10-50 each, 2-6 weeks)
Canadian Applicants:
RCMP Criminal Record Check: $25-50, 2-4 weeks for Canadian residents
Other Countries: Follow procedures for criminal record checks in each country where you were a citizen or resided 180+ days in past 15 years.
International Applicants Living in Multiple Countries: This can be complex, you need records from potentially 3-5+ jurisdictions. Plan carefully and request all simultaneously to ensure they're all recent when you submit.
Step 5: Obtain Romanian Language B1 Certificate (3-6 months, if required)
If you are not exempt from the language requirement:
Starting with No Romanian Knowledge:
Enroll in Romanian language course (online or in-person)
Study 10-15 hours per week for 4-6 months to reach B1 level
Take B1 certification exam at accredited institution
Cost: €300-800 for course and exam
Starting with Some Romanian Knowledge:
If you have some family exposure to Romanian, you may reach B1 faster
2-4 months of focused study may suffice
Take practice tests to assess your level
Timeline Planning: Begin language study immediately if required, this is often the longest single step for applicants who don't speak Romanian.
Send each document to appropriate Secretary of State for Apostille
Different states have different processing times (1-6 weeks) and costs ($20-100)
Can often expedite for additional fee
Federal documents (FBI criminal record): U.S. Department of State Apostille (Washington, D.C.)
Canadian Applicants:
Global Affairs Canada: Authentication and then Apostille
Can take 4-8 weeks, expedited service available
Organize Carefully:
Create spreadsheet tracking every document, its authentication status, and expiration date
Remember criminal records expire after 3-6 months
Step 7: Translate Documents into Romanian (1-2 months)
Find Certified Romanian Translator:
Must be certified/sworn translator registered with Romanian Ministry of Justice
Can work remotely, scan documents, translator provides certified translations
Ask for translator's registration number and official stamp
Submit All Documents:
Birth certificates, marriage certificates, criminal records, passports, etc.
15-25 pages typical for straightforward case
More complex cases (great-grandparent with extensive chain): 30-50 pages
Review Translations Carefully:
Ensure names are consistent across all documents
Verify dates are correct
Confirm translator included official stamps and signatures
Cost: €750-3,750 ($800-4,000) for typical application
Step 8: Prepare and Complete Application Forms (2-4 weeks)
Main Application Form:
Different forms for Article 10 vs. Article 11
Must be completed in Romanian
Available from Romanian National Authority for Citizenship (ANC) website or embassies
Supporting Narrative (Often Required):
Letter explaining your family history and basis for citizenship claim
Describe how ancestor left Romania, what citizenship they held, why they lost it
Must be in Romanian
2-4 pages typical
Checklist Document:
Create comprehensive list of all documents included
Organize documents logically (personal documents, generational chain, proof of citizenship, translations, etc.)
If You Don't Speak Romanian: You'll need translator or attorney to help prepare application forms and narrative.
Step 9: Submit Application (In-Person Required)
Two Submission Options:
Option A: Romanian Embassy/Consulate (If Living Abroad):
Advantage: Can submit without traveling to Romania
Disadvantage: Often significantly slower processing (can add 6-12 months to timeline)
Procedure: Book appointment (can be difficult, long wait times at busy consulates), attend in-person with all documents, submit complete application package
U.S. Embassies/Consulates: Washington D.C., New York, Los Angeles, Chicago (check current list)
Canadian Consulates: Ottawa, Toronto
Other countries: Check Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for locations
Option B: National Authority for Citizenship (ANC) in Bucharest (RECOMMENDED):
Advantage: Significantly faster processing, applications submitted in Romania generally processed 6-12 months faster
Disadvantage: Requires travel to Romania
Location: Bucharest (specific address provided by ANC)
Many applicants strongly prefer this route to avoid multi-year waits at embassies
At Submission:
Bring original documents (usually returned) and certified copies
Bring all translations with translator certifications
Pay application fee
Receive file number (Dosar number) for tracking
Application Fees (Effective 2025):
Article 10 (reacquisition, parent/grandparent): €50 for confirmation, €200 for reacquisition
Article 11 (former territory, up to great-grandparent): €200
Citizenship card: €18 (paid when approved)
Children included in application: Reduced fees apply
Biometric Data Collection (NEW 2025):
At time of submission, you must provide biometric data
Personal facial photograph and digital fingerprints
Children under 14 exempt
Biometric data permanently destroyed after citizenship process complete
Step 10: Government Processing (THE WAITING PERIOD) (6 months to 5+ years)
This is the longest and most frustrating part of the process.
Official Timeline:
Article 10: National Authority for Citizenship (ANC) supposed to review and decide within reasonable timeframe
Article 11(2): Mandates 5-month review period, but in practice, this is never met
Realistic Timeline:
Fast cases (rare): 6-12 months, typically "direct citizenship" confirmation cases with perfect documentation submitted in Bucharest
Typical cases: 2-3 years, most reacquisition and former territory cases
Slow cases: 4-5+ years, complex cases, incomplete documentation, applications submitted at busy embassies abroad
What Happens During Processing:
ANC evaluates document validity and lineage
Verifies information with Romanian archives, civil registers
Checks for security concerns (coordination with intelligence services)
May request additional documents or clarifications
May schedule interview (rare, but possible)
The Frustration:
You rarely receive updates unless you actively follow up
No transparent tracking system (though 2025 reforms promise improvements)
Many applicants wait years hearing absolutely nothing
Administrative backlog, ANC processes tens of thousands of applications
Legal Remedy (Highly Recommended After 6 Months):
Under Law 554/2004 (Administrative Litigation), you can petition the court to compel ANC to finalize your case if it hasn't been resolved within a "reasonable timeframe."
How It Works:
After 6 months without decision, your lawyer can file legal motion
Petition filed in Bucharest Tribunal
Argues that ANC has failed to decide within reasonable time (violates administrative law)
No court appearance required, lawyer represents you fully
Court often rules in favor of applicant
Court orders ANC to issue decision within 30-90 days
Results:
This legal strategy typically shaves 6-12 months (or more) off total waiting time
Can reduce 3-year wait to 12-18 months
Highly effective, most applicants who use this strategy receive decisions relatively quickly after court order
Cost: Legal action adds €1,000-2,500 to total costs, but most consider it worthwhile to avoid multi-year limbo.
Step 11: Receive Decision and Take Oath of Allegiance (1-2 months)
If Approved:
You'll receive notification that your citizenship has been approved
You must schedule appointment to take Oath of Allegiance (Jurământul de credință)
Oath of Allegiance:
Must be taken in person in Romania (at ANC office in Bucharest) OR at Romanian Embassy/Consulate abroad
Oath is in Romanian (you don't need to be fluent, just read the oath):
"Jur să fiu devotat Țării mele și poporului român, să apăr drepturile și interesele naționale, să respect Constituția și legile României"
Translation: "I swear to be devoted to my homeland and to the Romanian people, to defend the national rights and interests, to respect the Constitution and the laws of Romania"
Ceremony is recorded (audio/video), recordings retained for 1 year then destroyed
Minor children do not need to take oath
After Oath:
Receive Temporary Citizenship Certificate, valid for 60 days
Citizenship Card (Carte de cetățenie) issued within 60 days
Permanent proof of Romanian citizenship
If Rejected:
You'll receive written explanation of reasons
Can address deficiencies and reapply
Can appeal decision through Romanian courts
Step 12: Obtain Romanian Passport and ID Card (1-2 months)
Once you have your Citizenship Certificate:
Romanian Passport (Pașaport):
Apply at ANC passport office (if in Romania) OR Romanian Embassy/Consulate (if abroad)
Biometric passport: Includes chip with biometric data
Validity: 10 years for adults, 5 years for minors
Cost: €33-50 depending on processing speed
Processing time: 30 days standard, expedited available
Can be obtained abroad at Romanian embassies/consulates after citizenship approved
Romanian ID Card (Carte de identitate):
Can ONLY be obtained in person in Romania
Apply at local police station (Serviciul Public Comunitar de Pașapoarte și Permise - SPCPP)
Required documents: Citizenship certificate, proof of Romanian address (can be temporary)
Validity: 10 years for adults
Cost: €10
Processing time: 30 days
Required for many administrative procedures in Romania but not essential if you primarily plan to use passport for travel
Timeline Summary
Total Timeline: 18 months to 5+ years
Best-Case Scenario (12-18 months):
Profile: "Direct citizenship" case (parent was Romanian citizen, you may already be citizen), OR straightforward parent/grandparent reacquisition with perfect documentation, fluent in Romanian or exempt from language requirement, all documents readily available
Breakdown:
Eligibility verification and document gathering: 2-3 months
Apostilles and translations: 2-3 months
Application submission in Bucharest: Immediate
ANC processing: 6-10 months (with legal action after 6 months to expedite)
Oath and certificate: 1 month
Passport: 1 month
Typical Scenario (2-3 years):
Profile: Grandparent reacquisition OR former territory (Article 11) with great-grandparent, need to learn Romanian for B1 certificate, some genealogical research required, application submitted at embassy abroad
Breakdown:
Eligibility verification: 2-3 months
Genealogical research: 3-6 months
Romanian language study for B1: 4-6 months (concurrent with research)
Profile: Great-grandparent born in former territory, extensive archival research needed, limited documentation available, complex family history (multiple name changes, marriages), submitted at busy embassy abroad without legal intervention
Breakdown:
Eligibility verification and planning: 3-4 months
Extensive genealogical research (multiple archives, countries): 6-12 months
Romanian language study: 4-6 months (concurrent with research)
Pre-1918 emigration (Austro-Hungarian era, more complex historical records)
NOT using legal intervention to compel ANC decision
Costs
Government Fees (Low):
Citizenship application fee: €50-200 ($55-220) depending on pathway
Article 10 confirmation: €50
Article 10 reacquisition: €200
Article 11 (former territory): €200
Citizenship card: €18 (~$20)
Romanian passport: €33-50 ($36-55) depending on processing speed
Romanian ID card: €10 (~$11)
Total government fees: €111-278 ($120-305), extremely low compared to other programs
DIY Approach Total Costs: $3,000-$10,000
Typical DIY case (parent/grandparent, moderate complexity): $4,000-6,000
Breakdown:
Government fees: $120-220
Document procurement: $300-1,500
Vital records requests (birth, marriage, death certificates): $150-500
Romanian archive research (if needed): $500-1,000
Criminal record certificates: $200-600
FBI check ($18), state checks ($10-50 each), international records
Professional genealogical research (if needed): $500-2,500
More if extensive archives search required across multiple countries
Apostilles: $300-800 (15-25 documents at $20-100 each depending on jurisdiction)
Certified Romanian translations: $800-4,000
Most expensive single item: 15-25 pages at $50-150/page
Complex cases: 30-50 pages = $1,500-7,500
Romanian language B1 course and exam (if required): $300-800
Travel to Romania (if needed): $500-2,500
If submitting application in Bucharest or taking oath in Romania
Flights, accommodation, meals
Legal action to expedite (highly recommended): $1,100-2,750
Administrative litigation to compel ANC decision after 6 months
Shipping, courier, notarization: $200-500
Miscellaneous: $200-500
High-end DIY (great-grandparent, former territory, extensive research needed): $8,000-10,000+
Professional Services: $10,000-$25,000+
Most applicants, especially those with complex cases, language barriers, or limited time, choose professional assistance:
Mid-Range Services ($10,000-15,000):
Document procurement assistance
Genealogical research coordination
Translation and apostille management
Application preparation (forms in Romanian)
Embassy/ANC submission coordination
Basic legal support
Comprehensive Services ($15,000-25,000+):
Complete eligibility assessment
Full genealogical research (Romanian and international archives)
All document procurement and authentication
All certified Romanian translations
Romanian language tutoring (if needed) or exemption documentation
Complete application preparation in Romanian
Representation at submission (Bucharest or embassy)
Legal representation, Administrative Litigation to expedite
Ongoing liaison with ANC throughout processing
Oath ceremony coordination
Passport and ID card application support
Post-citizenship services (Romanian tax registration, social security, etc.)
When Professional Services Are Worth It:
You don't speak Romanian
You have complex family history (name changes, multiple marriages, pre-WWI emigration)
You're pursuing great-grandparent claim
You want to minimize delays and maximize chances of first-time approval
You have limited time to manage the process yourself
Your career/life situation makes 5-year wait unacceptable, need legal intervention to expedite
CitizenX Services for Romanian Citizenship by Descent
Service Fee: $25,000
What’s Included
1. Full Eligibility & Strategy Assessment
Complete review of your ancestry, legal pathway (Article 10 vs. Article 11), former-territory eligibility, and whether you already qualify as a “direct citizen.” CitizenX identifies the optimal ancestor, pathway, exemptions, and documentation strategy.
2. Professional Genealogical Research
Full archival research in Romania and former Romanian territories (Moldova, Ukraine, Bulgaria). Retrieval of birth, marriage, death, church and civil records, plus U.S./Canadian immigration and naturalization documents. Complete reconstruction of your generational chain.
3. Language Requirement Management
Assessment of B1 Romanian requirement under Law 14/2025, preparation of exemption files, or coordination with accredited schools for certification if needed.
4. Criminal Record Coordination
End-to-end management of all required police certificates across every relevant country and jurisdiction, ensuring correct timing and validity.
5. Apostilles & Certified Translations
Full handling of apostilles in all countries, authentication of 15–30+ documents, and certified Romanian translations by Ministry-authorized translators.
6. Complete Application Preparation
Full preparation of forms and narrative (in Romanian), document organization, translation control, and biometric coordination. CitizenX submits a complete, error-free file.
7. Submission Coordination
Faster Bucharest submission option or embassy submission if preferred. Appointment scheduling, document handling, and representation at submission.
8. Legal Representation & Acceleration
CitizenX files Administrative Litigation (Law 554/2004) after 6 months if no progress. This typically reduces timelines by 6–12 months and can bring total processing to 12–18 months.
9. Government Liaison
Continual communication with ANC, proactive follow-ups, responses to document requests, and management of interviews or clarifications.
10. Post-Approval Support
Oath of Allegiance coordination, citizenship certificate, Romanian passport application, ID card guidance, EU rights orientation, and optional Romanian tax/registration support.
Expected Timeline
Best case (18–24 months): Straightforward parent or grandparent cases submitted in Bucharest with language exemption and legal intervention.
Typical (2–3 years): Grandparent/great-grandparent with moderate research and B1 requirement.
Complex (2.5–4 years): Former territory cases, heavy archival research, name changes, missing documentation, or embassy submission delays.
Why Choose CitizenX
Expert navigation of 2025 reforms (Law 14/2025, B1 language rule, biometrics).
Deep specialization in Article 10/11 and former territories (Bessarabia, Bukovina, Northern Transylvania, Cadrilater).
Professional genealogists covering Romanian and foreign archives.
High success rate with multi-generation chains and pre-1918 ancestry.
Critical expertise coordinating 5–10+ criminal records and 30–50+ translations.
Strategic submission (Bucharest vs. embassy) to maximize speed.
Legal intervention that cuts wait times from 3–5 years to 12–18 months.
Full Romanian-language support for all government documents and communication.
Proven ANC navigation with continuous follow-ups.
Minimizes cost, delay, rejections, and reapplications.
Value vs. DIY
DIY typically costs $4,000–10,000+ and requires 200–400 hours.
Free Consultation – Share your family history and documents.
Case Evaluation – CitizenX confirms eligibility, pathway, timeline, and complexity.
Service Agreement – $25,000 fee + $120–305 government fees.
Full Case Handling – CitizenX manages research, documents, legal work, submission, ANC follow-ups, oath, and passport.
11 Benefits of Romanian Citizenship
1. European Union Citizenship
Most Important Benefit: As a Romanian citizen, you automatically become a citizen of the European Union with all associated rights:
Freedom of Movement:
Live in any of the 27 EU member states without visa or permit
Work in any EU country without work authorization
Study at universities across Europe at domestic rates (free or low-cost in many countries)
Start a business or invest anywhere in the EU single market
Retire in any EU country with full access to social systems
EU Countries (27 members): Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden
Plus EEA/Schengen:
Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland (not EU but similar freedom of movement)
2. Travel Freedom
Romanian Passport (2025):
Visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 180+ countries (approximately 82% of world)
Full Schengen Area membership (as of January 1, 2025), unlimited travel across 29 European countries with no border controls
One of the world's most powerful travel documents
Key Destinations Accessible:
Europe: All EU/Schengen countries (no limits, live and work freely)
United Kingdom: 6 months visa-free (despite Brexit)
United States: ESTA-eligible (visa-free 90 days, pending approval)
Canada: eTA (visa-free up to 6 months, pending approval)
Australia, New Zealand: ETA/NZeTA visa-free
Latin America: Visa-free throughout most of the continent
Asia: Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, etc. visa-free or visa-on-arrival
3. Economic and Professional Opportunities
Work Throughout EU:
No work permits or visas needed anywhere in EU
Same employment rights as local citizens
Access to professional licensing across EU (regulated professions)
Remote work from anywhere in EU with legal residency status
Business and Investment:
Establish companies anywhere in EU without foreign ownership restrictions
Access to EU banking and financial services
Participate in EU procurement and contracts
Property ownership throughout EU without restrictions
Romania-Specific Opportunities:
Low cost of living: Romania has one of the lowest costs of living in EU, quality of life is excellent relative to expenses
Growing economy: Strong economic growth, especially in IT/tech sector
Strategic location: Gateway between Western Europe, Balkans, Black Sea region
Real estate investment: Property prices significantly lower than Western Europe
Tax advantages: Romania has 10% flat income tax (one of Europe's lowest), 16% VAT
4. Education
European Education Access:
Free or low-cost university education across EU at domestic rates
Germany: Free public universities
France: €170-600/year at public universities
Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Greece, Norway, Sweden: Free or very low-cost
Romania: Free public universities, quality medical schools with English programs
Erasmus+ program: Student exchange opportunities across Europe
Professional qualifications recognized throughout EU
Quality Romanian Education:
Strong medical schools (many international students study medicine in Romania in English)
Excellent engineering and technical programs
Affordable private universities
5. Healthcare
EU Healthcare Access:
European Health Insurance Card (EHIC): Access to public healthcare throughout EU during travels
Permanent residence in any EU country: Full access to that country's healthcare system
Romanian healthcare system: Public healthcare available to citizens, improving quality
Private healthcare: Access to high-quality private medical care across Europe at lower costs than U.S.
6. Dual Citizenship
Romania Allows Dual Citizenship:
You do NOT need to renounce your current citizenship (U.S., Canadian, etc.)
Hold both passports simultaneously
Use Romanian passport for Europe travel, U.S. passport for U.S. travel
Best of both worlds, access to both systems
Verify Your Current Country's Rules:
U.S.: Allows dual citizenship, no issues
Canada: Allows dual citizenship, no issues
U.K.: Allows dual citizenship, no issues
Australia: Allows dual citizenship, no issues
Others: Check your specific country's policies
7. Tax and Financial Considerations
Residency-Based Taxation (Not Citizenship-Based):
Unlike U.S., Romania does NOT tax citizens on worldwide income simply for having citizenship
Only taxed on Romanian-source income or if you're tax resident in Romania (spend 183+ days/year there)
Simply obtaining Romanian citizenship creates NO tax obligations if you continue living in U.S., Canada, etc.
Romanian Tax Rates (If You Become Tax Resident):
10% flat personal income tax (one of EU's lowest)
16% VAT
5% dividend tax
16% corporate tax
Very entrepreneur-friendly compared to Western Europe
8. Family Benefits
Pass Citizenship to Children Automatically:
All future children born to you (once Romanian citizen) automatically acquire Romanian citizenship at birth
Multi-generational asset, your children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren all have EU citizenship
No need for them to go through application process
Include Minor Children in Application:
If you have children under 18, they can be included in your citizenship application
They receive citizenship when you do (with parental consent)
9. Political Rights
Voting Rights:
Vote in Romanian national elections (president, parliament)
Vote in EU Parliament elections
Vote in local/municipal elections if resident in Romania
Participate in referendums
Consular Protection:
Romanian embassy/consulate protection anywhere in world
In countries without Romanian representation, any EU embassy can provide consular assistance
10. Cultural Connection and Heritage
Reconnect with Roots:
Formal legal recognition of Romanian heritage
Ability to explore ancestral villages and regions freely
Access to Romanian language, culture, traditions
Connect with extended family in Romania
Historical Reparation:
For many descendants of Romanian emigrants, citizenship represents historical justice
Acknowledges forced emigration due to poverty, persecution, war
Restores connection severed by 20th century upheavals
11. Retirement and Lifestyle Options
European Lifestyle:
Retire in Portugal, Spain, France, Italy, Greece, or anywhere in EU
Access to Mediterranean climate, historic cities, cultural richness
Lower cost of living than U.S. in many EU countries
Excellent public transportation, walkable cities
Universal healthcare systems
Plan B and Security:
Insurance policy against political instability, economic crisis, or other uncertainties in home country
Physical haven for yourself and family if situation deteriorates
Option to relocate family to safe, stable European environment
Investment in geographic diversification
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the entire process take?
A realistic timeline is 2-5 years from starting application to receiving passport. Fastest cases (direct citizenship with perfect documentation submitted in Bucharest with legal intervention to expedite): 12-18 months. Typical cases (grandparent/great-grandparent with Romanian language requirement): 2-3 years. Complex cases without legal intervention: 4-5+ years.
Do I need to speak Romanian?
As of March 15, 2025 (Law 14/2025), most citizenship by descent applicants need B1-level Romanian proficiency. Exemptions: applicants over 65, former Romanian citizens reacquiring citizenship, those born in Romania, and "direct citizenship" cases (already citizens just registering existing citizenship). If not exempt, you must provide B1 certificate from accredited institution, 3+ years Romanian study transcript, or Romanian cultural institution certificate.
Can I apply if my great-grandparent was Romanian?
Yes, if your great-grandparent was born in territory that belonged to Romania between 1918-1940 (Bessarabia, Bukovina, Northern Transylvania, Cadrilater). This falls under Article 11 (former territory citizenship). Great-grandchildren are the furthest generation eligible. Great-great-grandchildren and beyond are NOT eligible under current law.
Do I need to live in Romania?
No. You can apply from abroad, live anywhere in the world, and are not required to reside in Romania at any point (except brief visit to submit application if doing so in Bucharest, and brief visit for oath ceremony).
Will I lose my U.S./Canadian citizenship?
No. U.S. and Canada both allow dual citizenship. Romania also permits dual citizenship. You can hold both passports simultaneously. Verify rules for your specific country if not U.S./Canadian.
Can I include my children?
Yes. Minor children (under 18) can be included in your citizenship application. Once you become Romanian citizen, any future children born to you automatically acquire Romanian citizenship at birth.
How much does it cost?
Government fees are very low (€111-278 / $120-305). DIY total costs typically $4,000-6,000 for straightforward cases, $8,000-10,000 for complex cases. Professional services range $10,000-25,000+ depending on complexity and level of support.
What if I can't find my ancestor's documents?
Professional genealogists can research Romanian National Archives, regional archives, church archives, and international archives (Ellis Island, U.S. naturalization records, etc.) to locate missing documents. Cost: €500-2,500 typically. Many documents can be reconstructed from archival records.
Can I apply if my ancestor emigrated before 1918 from Transylvania?
Yes, potentially. Even though Transylvania wasn't part of Romania before 1918, if your ancestor was born in Transylvania and Transylvania was part of Romania 1918-1940, you may qualify under Article 11 (former territory pathway).
What if my ancestor was from Bessarabia (now Moldova)?
Excellent! Bessarabia was part of Greater Romania from 1918-1940. Many Moldovans and descendants of Bessarabian emigrants qualify under Article 11. This is one of the most common pathways.
Do I need a lawyer?
Not required, but highly recommended for complex cases or to expedite processing. Lawyers can: prepare Romanian-language documents, navigate ANC bureaucracy, file Administrative Litigation (Law 554/2004) after 6 months to compel decision (can save 6-12+ months), handle communications with Romanian authorities. Most successful applicants either handle everything themselves (if fluent in Romanian with simple case) or hire professional services.
Can I apply through a Romanian embassy in my country?
Yes, but applications submitted at embassies/consulates abroad are typically processed 6-12 months slower than applications submitted directly in Bucharest at the National Authority for Citizenship (ANC). Many applicants prefer to travel to Romania for submission to expedite processing.
What happens if my application is rejected?
You receive written explanation of reasons. Can address deficiencies (obtain missing documents, correct errors) and reapply. Can also appeal decision through Romanian courts. Rejections are relatively rare if documentation is complete, most delays are administrative backlog, not substantive issues.
How can I speed up the process?
(1) Submit application in Bucharest, not at embassy abroad. (2) Ensure documentation is 100% complete and correct from the start. (3) Use legal remedy under Law 554/2004, file Administrative Litigation after 6 months to compel ANC decision (highly effective, can reduce wait by 6-12+ months). (4) If language-exempt or already fluent in Romanian, saves 4-6 months.
What's the difference between Article 10 and Article 11?
Article 10 is for reacquisition of citizenship if you or your parent/grandparent was Romanian citizen who lost citizenship. Article 11 is for descendants (up to great-grandchildren) of individuals born in territories that were part of Romania 1918-1940 (former territories, now Moldova, Ukraine, Serbia, Bulgaria). Article 11 is more generous (allows great-grandchildren) but requires proving territorial birth during that specific period.
Will Romania's EU membership status change?
Romania is a full EU member since 2007 and became full Schengen member January 1, 2025. There are no current indications this will change. Romanian citizenship means EU citizenship with all associated benefits.
