Document Translation and Apostille Requirements for Electricians

Introduction

Relocating to Romania as a professional electrician can be one of the most rewarding career moves you make. Romania offers an attractive blend of EU-level project standards, growing demand across construction and industrial sectors, and a cost of living that lets your salary go further. Yet there is one area that trips up many skilled tradespeople: documentation. Before you can wire a panel, install a solar array, or commission a PLC, you will need to prove who you are, what you can do, and that your credentials are valid in Romania.

This guide breaks down the full document translation and apostille process for electricians moving from Global to Romania. You will learn what to apostille, how to get certified translations into Romanian, when and how to legalize documents, and how to prepare for ANRE authorization and local standards. We will also cover visas, salary expectations, cost of living, cultural integration, and step-by-step relocation planning. By the end, you will have a practical blueprint to get your paperwork right the first time and step into a Romanian job site with confidence.

Why Romania?

Romania is an EU member state with a dynamic, fast-growing economy and a robust pipeline of electrical and construction projects. For electricians seeking international experience, it offers:

EU market access: Once you are working in Romania, you are operating under EU-wide directives (like the Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU), which enhances your CV for opportunities across the European market.
Competitive salaries and lower cost of living: While wages are increasingly competitive, the cost of living remains favorable compared with many Western European capitals.
Strong demand for skilled trades: Residential construction, industrial automation, renewable energy installations, and infrastructure upgrades create steady demand for qualified electricians.
Quality of life: Vibrant cities such as Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi offer cultural amenities, tech-enabled workplaces, modern infrastructure, and growing expat communities.

Additional advantages include a 230/400 V, 50 Hz electrical environment aligned with EU norms, widespread use of CE-marked equipment, and increasing investments in energy efficiency and smart building systems.

Job Market Overview

Romania's electrical job market is diverse and evolving. Here is where most opportunities are concentrated:

Renewable Energy Installations

Solar PV: EPC contractors and O&M providers are scaling residential, commercial, and utility-scale solar projects. Skills in array mounting, string design, inverter commissioning, and grid compliance are valuable.
Wind energy: While newer onshore capacity grows at a steady pace, there is ongoing maintenance and retrofitting work. HV/MV experience, SCADA familiarity, and safety certifications are assets.
Energy storage and prosumer systems: Battery integration with PV, smart meters, and prosumer setups require electricians who understand protection, communication interfaces, and ANRE requirements.

Industrial Automation and Manufacturing

Automotive and electronics: Facilities in cities like Timisoara, Arad, and Cluj-Napoca partner with major OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers. Skills include industrial wiring, PLC panel building, VFDs, safety relays, labeling to EN standards, and preventive maintenance.
Food and beverage, pharma, and logistics: Clean installations, process instrumentation, machine safety, and adherence to EU Machinery and EMC directives are critical.

Residential and Commercial Construction

New-build and retrofit: Apartments, offices, and retail spaces in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Iasi need electricians for rough-in, finishing, and upgrades.
Smart building systems: KNX, BACnet, and IoT-enabled devices are becoming more common. Low-voltage cabling, access control, fire alarm systems, and integration with BMS are increasingly relevant.

Utilities and Infrastructure

Distribution networks: Work with distribution operators includes substation upgrades, MV switchgear, protection testing, and metering.
Public infrastructure: Lighting, EV charging networks, and transport systems require electricians who can work to public procurement standards and documentation requirements.

Typical Employers in Romania

Electrical contractors and EPC companies working on residential, commercial, and industrial projects.
Construction firms delivering turnkey projects for developers and public authorities.
Industrial facilities and OEMs seeking maintenance and project support.
Renewable energy companies focused on PV, wind, and storage.
Facilities management providers handling building operations.

Cities to watch:

Bucharest: Headquarters for many construction and engineering firms; large commercial projects; extensive metro and infrastructure.
Cluj-Napoca: Tech-centric economy, smart buildings, growing industrial parks.
Timisoara: Manufacturing hub, automation-intensive facilities.
Iasi: Expanding construction market, public projects, and university-driven innovation.

Legal Requirements (Work Permits and Visa Process for Global Citizens)

If you are a non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen (referred to as Global in this guide), you will typically need a work permit and a long-stay work visa to work in Romania. Here is the high-level process:

Secure a job offer and employer sponsorship

Your Romanian employer applies for a work authorization (aviz de angajare) with the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI).
They submit proof of their company registration, your employment contract terms, your qualifications, and other supporting documents.
Processing time: typically around 30 days, sometimes longer during peak periods.

Apply for a long-stay work visa (visa D/AM)

Once the employer gets the work authorization, you apply for a D/AM visa at the Romanian embassy or consulate in your country of residence.
You will submit: passport, work authorization, signed employment contract or offer, proof of accommodation, medical insurance, criminal record certificate, educational and professional qualifications, and fee payment.
Many of these documents will need to be apostilled or legalized and translated into Romanian by an authorized translator. See the document translation and apostille section below.
Processing time: typically 10-20 working days, contingent on the embassy workload and completeness of your file.

Enter Romania and obtain a residence permit

After arriving with your visa, apply for a residence permit (permits de sedere) at IGI in your local area within the validity window of your visa (usually within 90 days).
Submit: passport, employment contract, proof of accommodation, health insurance, tax registration details, and your original apostilled/legalized documents with Romanian translations.
The residence permit is typically issued as a card and must be renewed before expiry.

Notes and tips:

Criminal record certificates often have limited validity (for example 3 to 6 months). Plan your apostille and submission timing accordingly.
For some roles, a medical fitness certificate may be needed; check if your employer or ANRE requires one and translate/legalize as necessary.
Keep both originals and notarized copies; authorities will want to see originals and may retain copies.

EU/EEA/Swiss citizens:

You do not need a work permit. You must register your residence after arrival. However, ANRE and employers will still require proof of qualifications, and certain documents may still need certified translations into Romanian.

Certification and License Recognition (ANRE and Beyond)

In Romania, many electrical activities are regulated, and higher-responsibility tasks typically require ANRE authorization. You will also need to align with Romanian and EU standards.

ANRE Authorization for Electricians

ANRE (Autoritatea Nationala de Reglementare in Energie) authorizes electricians by competency levels and activity scope. While terminology and categories are updated periodically, a practical way to understand the framework is:

Grades I to IV indicate the voltage domain and complexity you are allowed to work with, from low voltage (LV) to higher voltage installations.
Subcategories often distinguish between design, execution, and combined competencies (commonly referenced as A - design, B - execution, and C - design and execution, depending on the scheme in force).

What this means in practice:

Grade I: Typically focused on low voltage installations, common in residential and small commercial work.
Grade II: Extends to medium voltage domains often seen in industrial and distribution environments.
Grade III and IV: Cover higher voltage and complex industrial or utility installations, with correspondingly stringent requirements and experience thresholds.

Your steps to ANRE authorization as a newcomer:

Prepare documentation: Application form, CV, passport, residence permit (if available), diplomas, proof of professional experience, reference letters, training certificates (e.g., safety courses), and proof of fee payment.
Validation of foreign qualifications: If your diplomas or vocational certificates were issued outside Romania, you will likely need equivalence or recognition from the competent Romanian authority. For higher education diplomas, CNRED (National Center for Recognition and Equivalence of Diplomas) may be involved. For vocational certificates, ANC (Autoritatea Nationala pentru Calificari) or relevant sector bodies may handle recognition.
Language: Expect application materials and exams or interviews to be in Romanian. If you are not proficient yet, consider a Romanian language course focused on technical vocabulary, and work initially under the supervision of an ANRE-authorized professional while you prepare for your own authorization.
Exam and interview: Depending on the grade and subcategory, ANRE may require examinations, interviews, or documented evidence of experience. Be prepared to reference Romanian standards and safety norms.

Important: Always verify the latest ANRE categories, criteria, application windows, and fees directly on ANRE's official website or via your employer, as rules and formats can be updated.

Romanian Electrical Standards and EU Directives

Voltage and frequency: Romania uses 230/400 V, 50 Hz. Sockets are Type F (Schuko). Color coding typically follows EU norms (brown live, blue neutral, green-yellow earth), but always confirm site-specific standards and labeling.
Low Voltage Directive (2014/35/EU): Equipment used and installed must comply with EU safety requirements. CE marking is essential.
Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (2014/30/EU) and Machinery Directive (2006/42/EC): Relevant for industrial equipment and control panels.
ATEX directives (2014/34/EU): Apply to equipment intended for use in potentially explosive atmospheres.
Romanian norms and codes: Expect reference to national standards such as SR EN 60364 for LV installations, and Romanian normative documents commonly referenced by design engineers and inspectors. In new builds and major renovations, RCD protection, earthing arrangements, labeling conventions, and circuit selectivity are scrutinized.

Safety and Specialized Authorizations

Work at height, arc flash awareness, lockout tagout, and first aid certifications can make you more employable.
For PV: Experience with string calculations, DC isolators, SPD selection, inverter commissioning, and grid code compliance is in demand. Registration requirements may apply for companies that install prosumer systems.
For industrial plants: Competency in reading schematics to EN standards, wiring to panel layout drawings, and verifying protective devices per coordination studies is valuable.

The Core: Document Translation, Apostille, and Legalization for Romania

This is the heart of your relocation success. Romanian authorities, employers, and ANRE will expect certain documents to be officially recognized and readable in Romanian.

What is an Apostille?

An apostille is a form of authentication issued under the Hague Apostille Convention. It certifies the origin of a public document, allowing it to be recognized in other member countries. Romania is a party to the Convention. If your home country is also a member, you will need to obtain an apostille on key documents before submitting them in Romania.

If your country is not a party to the Convention, you will need consular legalization instead. This usually means a chain of certifications: notarization, authentication by your foreign ministry, and legalization by the Romanian embassy or consulate.

Which Documents Typically Need an Apostille or Legalization?

Criminal record certificate or police clearance (often mandatory for visa and sometimes for ANRE). Note time validity (commonly 3-6 months).
Educational diplomas and transcripts (trade school certificates, apprenticeships, degrees).
Professional certificates and licenses (electrician license, safety training certificates, specialized authorizations).
Proof of work experience (letters from past employers stating role, dates, and tasks). If issued on company letterhead and notarized, it can often be apostilled.
Birth certificate and marriage certificate (if bringing family members or for certain administrative steps).
Medical fitness certificate (if required; check employer or ANRE guidelines).

Tip: Always ask the receiving authority what documents are required and in what form. Requirements can vary by case and may be updated.

Order of Operations: Apostille and Translation

Very important: If a document needs an apostille, get the apostille first, then translate the entire document (including the apostille page) into Romanian. The translation must reflect the content of the apostille to be accepted by Romanian notaries and authorities.

Certified Translations in Romania

Use a sworn translator authorized by the Romanian Ministry of Justice to translate your documents into Romanian.
After translation, a Romanian notary public can notarize the translator's signature, producing a notarized translation. Many authorities expect notarized translations.
If you translate abroad: The translation may need to be legalized/apostilled and sometimes verified by the Romanian embassy to be valid. It is generally simpler to do translations in Romania with a sworn translator.

Legalization vs Apostille: Country Scenarios

If your country is in the Hague Apostille Convention: Obtain apostilles from the designated authority in your country (e.g., Department of State, Ministry of Justice). Then bring the apostilled originals to Romania for sworn translation and notarization.
If your country is not in the Hague: Follow consular legalization. This typically includes notarization, authentication by your foreign ministry, and legalization by a Romanian embassy or consulate. After arriving in Romania, translate via a sworn translator and notarize the translation.

Electronic Apostilles (e-Apostille)

Some countries issue electronic apostilles. Check with the Romanian embassy or the intended receiving authority whether printed e-apostilles are acceptable and what format they prefer. When in doubt, request a paper apostille.

Costs and Timing

Apostille fees: Typically 20-100 EUR (or equivalent) per document, depending on your country. Processing can take 1-15 business days; urgent service may be available at higher cost.
Consular legalization: Often more expensive and time-consuming than apostille, with multiple steps.
Translation fees in Romania: Commonly 60-120 RON per standard translated page, depending on language pair and complexity. Technical content may cost more.
Notarization of translations: Often 30-60 RON per document or per notarization act. Prices vary by notary and city.
Work visa fee: Varies by consulate, often around 120-150 USD/EUR equivalent. Check the exact fee with your local Romanian embassy.

Typical timelines if you plan well:

Collect originals and certified copies: 1-2 weeks.
Apostille or legalization: 1-3 weeks depending on your country.
Translations and notarization in Romania: 2-5 working days (rush possible).
Employer work authorization: 30 days typical.
Visa issuance: 10-20 working days.

Practical Tips to Avoid Delays

Get multiple originals or certified copies of key documents; apostilles attach to each original or certified copy.
Use consistent names and dates across documents. If there are discrepancies (e.g., name spelling variations), prepare sworn statements or supporting documents to clarify.
Keep digital scans of everything. Some steps allow pre-verification by email.
Confirm the validity period of criminal record certificates and medical documents so they do not expire mid-process.
If your prior employer letters are not notarized, ask the company to notarize them to facilitate apostille.
Work with a local relocation consultant or law firm if your case is complex (e.g., family, non-Hague country, or unusual credentials).

Certification and License Recognition: Converting Your Credentials

In addition to translations and apostilles, you may need formal recognition of your qualifications.

Recognition of Diplomas and Vocational Certificates

Higher education degrees: CNRED handles recognition and equivalence. You will submit apostilled/legalized diplomas, transcripts, translations, and an application. CNRED may assign an equivalence level or request additional documents.
Vocational certificates: ANC or sectoral authorities may recognize qualifications. The process can involve syllabus comparison, evidence of training hours, and proof of professional experience.
Employer pathway: Many employers will hire you into roles corresponding to your recognized competencies while supporting your path toward ANRE authorization. You may initially work under supervision and then upgrade your authorization level.

ANRE Grades and Specializations

Target the ANRE grade matching your experience and desired job scope. If your background is mostly residential LV, start with Grade I B (execution) and plan to progress.
If you have robust industrial experience, seek higher grades as soon as recognition and language allow.
Keep records of your projects. Photos, schematics, test reports, and work logs can support your experience claims.

Safety Certifications

Standard EU-aligned safety courses, first aid, and specific qualifications (e.g., PV installer training, confined space awareness) can make your application stronger.
If you have internationally recognized credentials, apostille and translate them. Some may be recognized directly, while others add value informally during hiring.

Salary and Benefits

Romania's electrician salaries vary by city, specialization, and experience. Below are realistic ranges as of recent market observations. Exchange assumptions: 1 EUR ~ 4.95 RON (check current rates).

Entry-level or junior electrician (0-2 years): 3,500 - 5,500 RON net per month (~700 - 1,100 EUR) depending on city and sector.
Experienced electrician in residential/commercial: 5,500 - 8,500 RON net (~1,100 - 1,700 EUR).
Industrial electrician or automation technician: 7,500 - 12,000 RON net (~1,500 - 2,400 EUR), higher with overtime or shifts.
Foreman/site lead or specialist roles (HV/MV, commissioning): 10,000 - 15,000 RON net (~2,000 - 3,000 EUR), potentially more on large projects.
Contractor day rates: 400 - 800 RON per day, higher for specialized commissioning or short-notice work.

Benefits to watch for:

Overtime pay or shift allowances.
Meal vouchers (commonly provided in Romania).
Transport or fuel allowance if traveling to sites.
Accommodation for out-of-town assignments.
Private medical insurance plans.
Training budget and support for ANRE exams.

Tax notes:

Romania applies social contributions and income tax to salaries. As a very general illustration, employee social contributions include pension and health, and income tax is typically applied after contributions. The exact take-home depends on your gross salary, any applicable sector incentives, and personal situation.
The construction sector has, at times, benefited from tax incentives and exemptions for eligible roles. Ask your employer or a tax advisor about the current regime, as these policies can change.

Cost of Living

Romania remains cost-competitive compared to many EU countries. Costs vary by city and lifestyle. Here are rough monthly estimates:

Housing (1-bedroom apartment, monthly rent):

Bucharest: 400 - 800 EUR depending on neighborhood and condition.
Cluj-Napoca: 350 - 700 EUR.
Timisoara: 300 - 550 EUR.
Iasi: 300 - 500 EUR.

Utilities (electricity, heating, water, trash, internet):

80 - 150 EUR depending on season, apartment size, and energy efficiency.

Transportation:

Public transport monthly pass: 15 - 25 EUR in most cities; Bucharest offers metro and bus options.
Fuel: Similar to EU levels; car ownership adds insurance, parking, and maintenance costs.

Food and daily expenses:

Groceries: 150 - 300 EUR per person per month depending on diet and brand choices.
Dining out: 6 - 12 EUR for a casual meal; 25+ EUR for mid-range dining for two.

Other:

Mobile plan: 5 - 15 EUR per month.
Health and fitness: Gym membership 25 - 50 EUR.

These figures are indicative. Your costs will vary by lifestyle, family size, and choice of city and neighborhood.

Cultural Integration

Language:

Romanian is the official language. In technical environments, English is often used, especially with multinational employers. However, you will benefit greatly from learning Romanian basics, especially for ANRE processes, safety briefings, and site coordination.
Start with core technical terms: conductor, breaker, earthing, insulation, voltage, neutral, phase, enclosure, trunking, cable tray, inverter, junction box.

Workplace culture:

Professionalism and punctuality are valued. Site safety briefings and toolbox talks are standard on reputable projects.
Documentation matters. Expect checklists, as-built drawings, test sheets, and commissioning reports.
Hierarchy exists, but good managers value initiative and clear communication.

Safety and standards:

Lockout tagout, permits to work, and PPE are increasingly enforced, especially with international contractors and industrial sites.
A strong focus on compliance with EU directives and Romanian norms is considered a competitive advantage by employers.

Community and daily life:

Romania has warm hospitality and a growing expat presence. Community groups in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi can help with housing tips, schooling, and social life.

Practical Steps to Relocate

Follow this step-by-step approach to minimize delays and surprises:

Research roles and employers

Target sectors aligned with your skills: renewable energy, industrial automation, utilities, or construction.
Shortlist cities based on opportunities and lifestyle.
Prepare a CV that highlights EU-relevant experience and standards compliance.

Audit your documents

Passport validity: Make sure it is valid for at least 6-12 months beyond your planned start date.
Diplomas and certificates: Gather originals or certified copies from your institutions.
Experience letters: Request detailed employer letters on company letterhead specifying job titles, dates, main tasks, and voltage or system types handled.
Criminal record certificate: Request it close to your application timeline to avoid expiry.
Marriage/birth certificates: If relocating with family.

Plan apostille or consular legalization

Check if your country is in the Hague Apostille Convention.
Apostille all required documents first. If not in the Hague, complete the consular legalization chain.

Translate your documents into Romanian

Use a sworn translator in Romania for accuracy and speed.
Notarize translations at a Romanian notary public.

Employer applies for your work authorization (aviz de angajare)

Provide your apostilled, translated documents to the employer or their immigration counsel.
Monitor timelines and respond to any requests for additional evidence.

Apply for D/AM work visa

Book an appointment with the Romanian embassy or consulate.
Submit your file, pay the fee, and track processing.

Arrive in Romania and apply for residence permit

Obtain your residence card at IGI. Keep copies of everything.
Register with local authorities as needed and open a bank account.

Start ANRE authorization process (if required for your role)

Confirm which ANRE grade you need. Prepare your application, including recognized diplomas and translated documents.
Schedule exams or interviews, and plan time for study in Romanian.

Settle housing and logistics

Consider temporary accommodation for the first month while you search for long-term rentals.
Set up utilities, internet, and mobile service.

Build your local network

Join professional groups, attend trade fairs, and connect with other electricians.
Consider additional training in Romanian standards or smart building systems.

Success Tips from Other Expats

Do the apostille first, translate second. This is the single biggest time-saver.
Over-document your experience. The more detailed your employer letters, the easier recognition and hiring become.
Start learning Romanian immediately. Even basic technical vocabulary will help on site and during ANRE processes.
Work under a local ANRE-authorized supervisor while you prepare your own authorization. It keeps you earning and learning.
Be proactive about safety qualifications. Employers appreciate electricians who arrive with EU-aligned safety training.
Use relocation services if your case is complex. A good consultant can coordinate apostilles, translations, and filings across borders.
Keep originals safe and carry certified copies. You will be asked to show originals but submit copies.

Common Technical and Compliance Challenges

Romanian norms differ from some non-EU countries. Expect stricter RCD usage, specific earthing practices, and detailed labeling.
Voltage differences: If you are coming from 120/240 V systems, get comfortable with 230/400 V and EU color codes.
Tool certification: Ensure tools and testers carry CE marking and valid calibration, particularly for commissioning and industrial environments.
Documentation culture: Test reports, insulation resistance logs, torque records, and as-built documentation are often mandatory deliverables.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Romania offers a compelling mix of opportunity, professional growth, and quality of life for electricians from Global. The key to unlocking these opportunities lies in meticulous preparation of your documents: apostille where required, translate everything properly into Romanian, and ensure you meet ANRE and visa requirements. With your paperwork in order, you can focus on what you do best: delivering safe, compliant, and efficient electrical work.

Start today by auditing your documents, confirming apostille steps in your home country, and shortlisting employers in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi. If you want a smoother journey, partner with a relocation or legal specialist. Romania is hiring, and your skills are needed.

FAQ

1) Which documents must I apostille before coming to Romania?

Commonly required documents include your criminal record certificate, educational diplomas and transcripts, professional licenses or certificates, employer reference letters (ideally notarized), and civil status documents if relocating with family. Always ask your employer and the Romanian embassy for the exact list for your case.

2) Should I translate my documents before or after apostille?

Apostille first, translate second. Translators in Romania will translate both the original document and the apostille page. This is the format most widely accepted by notaries and authorities.

3) Can I use translations done in my home country?

Sometimes. If the translator abroad is not recognized in Romania, the translation may need additional legalization or an apostille. It is generally simpler to do translations in Romania with a sworn translator authorized by the Ministry of Justice, then notarize the translations locally.

4) How long does the work authorization and visa process take?

Typical timelines are 30 days for the employer's work authorization and 10-20 working days for the work visa once you file at the embassy. Add time for collecting documents, apostille/legalization, and translation. Overall, plan for 8-12 weeks end-to-end if you prepare efficiently.

5) What ANRE authorization do I need as an electrician?

It depends on your job scope. Lower-voltage residential and commercial work typically aligns with a lower ANRE grade, while industrial, MV/HV, and design or commissioning roles require higher grades and sometimes specific subcategories (design, execution, or both). Confirm the exact grade with your employer and review the current ANRE framework.

6) Do I need to speak Romanian to pass ANRE exams?

ANRE processes and technical documentation are generally in Romanian. While some international companies operate in English, expect to use Romanian for official procedures. Investing in language training focused on technical terms is highly recommended.

7) What are realistic salary expectations in Bucharest versus other cities?

Bucharest typically pays the highest, followed by Cluj-Napoca and Timisoara, then Iasi. As a rough guide, experienced electricians might expect 5,500 - 8,500 RON net in residential/commercial work, and 7,500 - 12,000 RON net in industrial roles, with higher pay for specialized commissioning or leadership positions.

8) Will my foreign electrician license be automatically recognized?

Not automatically. You may need recognition from CNRED or ANC depending on the type of qualification, plus ANRE authorization for regulated activities. Apostilles, translations, and detailed proof of experience will help the process.

9) Can I work as a self-employed electrician immediately?

If you are non-EU, you generally need a work authorization tied to an employer or a business setup that complies with Romanian immigration rules. Setting up as self-employed or opening a company has additional legal and tax implications. Many newcomers start with employment and consider self-employment later.

10) What happens if my criminal record certificate expires before my visa appointment?

You will likely need to obtain a new certificate. Track the validity window closely and schedule your apostille and embassy appointment accordingly. Keep spare copies in case of resubmission.