Top Countries Hiring International Electricians in 2025

Introduction

Thinking about relocating from Global to Romania to grow your electrical career in 2025? You are not alone. Across Europe and beyond, demand for qualified electricians is surging due to aging infrastructure, renewable energy expansion, smart building retrofits, and industrial automation. Romania stands out as a compelling destination: EU membership, competitive salaries when measured against a relatively low cost of living, and a growing pipeline of construction and energy projects.

Before we dive deep into how to land and thrive in electrician jobs in Romania, here is a quick global snapshot of where international electricians are in demand. This list helps provide context for your decision, but the rest of this guide focuses on Romania as your career base in the EU.

Global snapshot: where electricians are in demand in 2025

• Romania: Strong hiring across residential construction, commercial projects, industrial automation, and solar PV; clear licensing path via ANRE authorization.
• Germany: Persistent skills shortage in industrial maintenance, automation, and grid upgrades; German language often required.
• Netherlands: Renewable projects and data center growth; strict safety culture and competitive wages.
• Norway and Denmark: Offshore wind, shipyards, and high-voltage grid roles; high wages and high cost of living.
• Ireland: Data centers, pharma plants, and commercial construction; English-speaking environment.
• United Kingdom: Ongoing need for certified electricians in construction and maintenance; recognition pathways for international credentials.
• Canada and Australia: Immigration-friendly systems, strong construction markets; licensing recognition processes vary by province/state.
• United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia: Large-scale industrial and infrastructure projects; fast-paced site work and tax-free salaries.

If your priority is entering the EU market with a realistic pathway to licensing, attractive costs, and room to advance, Romania deserves your attention.

Why Romania?

EU membership and market access

Romania is an EU member state, which provides a stable regulatory environment and alignment with EU electrical standards and directives. As an electrician in Romania, you gain experience under EU-aligned norms such as the Low Voltage Directive and SR HD 60364 standards. That experience is highly portable across the European market once you gain language and project exposure.

Competitive salaries relative to cost of living

While Romania's salaries may be lower than Western Europe at headline level, the cost of living is significantly more affordable. Skilled electricians can enjoy solid purchasing power, particularly outside Bucharest. With careful budgeting, electricians can save, support family, or invest in further training while progressing through ANRE authorization grades and moving into higher-paying roles such as industrial automation or renewable energy commissioning.

Quality of life

• Dynamic cities: Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi offer vibrant tech scenes, modern malls, cafes, and public transport.
• Nature access: Carpathian mountains for hiking and skiing, Black Sea beaches, and countless rural retreats.
• Work-life balance: A standard 40-hour workweek, paid leave, and steady site schedules contribute to a reasonable balance.

Strong demand for electricians

Romania faces ongoing skilled worker shortages. The backlog includes residential and commercial construction, factory expansions in automotive and electronics, and a national push for renewable energy. Grid modernization and smart metering programs also keep demand steady. Employers are actively hiring internationally, and many assist with work permits.

Job Market Overview

Romania's electrical job market covers multiple segments. Your opportunities will depend on your skill set, certifications, and willingness to work across sites and cities.

Key sectors

1. Residential and commercial construction

   • New developments and retrofits drive ongoing demand for electrical installations, panel assembly, lighting, and fire safety systems.
   • Smart building integrations (BMS, access control, energy monitoring) are increasingly common in Grade A office towers and logistics centers.

2. Industrial automation and manufacturing

   • Automotive and electronics clusters around Timisoara, Cluj-Napoca, and Iasi seek electricians with PLC familiarity, VFD setup, and control panel wiring.
   • Maintenance and commissioning roles are prevalent in factories, where downtime reduction skills are prized.

3. Renewable energy installations

   • Solar PV is booming, from rooftop prosumers to utility-scale fields, especially in the south and Dobrogea.
   • Wind remains significant in Dobrogea, requiring experience with medium-voltage interconnections and substation work.

4. Power distribution and grid modernization

   • Distribution system operators and contractors manage substation upgrades, smart metering, and underground cabling projects.
   • Roles include medium-voltage work, testing, and protection systems.

5. Data centers and critical infrastructure

   • Bucharest and several regional hubs are seeing more data center projects, requiring clean cable management, redundancy systems, and rigorous testing.

Typical employers in Romania

• Electrical contractors: Medium and large firms handling construction sites, PV projects, and maintenance.
• Construction firms: General contractors who employ in-house electrical teams.
• Industrial facilities: Automotive parts producers, electronics manufacturers, food processing plants.
• Renewable energy companies: EPC contractors and IPPs for solar and wind.
• Integrators and OEMs: Companies providing LV/MV panels, BMS, automation, and industrial controls.

Examples you may encounter on job boards in Romania include reputable local contractors, renewable developers, multinational integrators, and industrial site operators. Research each employer's safety culture, training, and ANRE support before you accept an offer.

City-specific highlights

• Bucharest: Largest job market across all segments, including commercial towers, data centers, and high-spec fit-outs. Higher salaries and rents.
• Cluj-Napoca: Tech-forward city with smart buildings and manufacturing roles; strong demand in industrial maintenance and automation.
• Timisoara: Automotive and electronics manufacturing hub; steady industrial maintenance and project work.
• Iasi: Growing IT and services sector with construction projects and university-driven expansions; balanced cost of living.

Legal Requirements

If you are a Global citizen from outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland, you need proper authorization to work in Romania. Employers usually sponsor the process, but you should understand each step.

Work permit and visa pathway

1. Job offer and contract

   • Secure a signed job offer from a Romanian employer. Your contract typically specifies location, salary, and role.

2. Employer obtains work authorization (aviz de munca)

   • The employer applies through the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI). They must show no suitable local candidate was available and confirm salary and compliance.
   • Typical processing time: about 30 working days, though it can vary.

3. Long-stay employment visa (D/AM)

   • After the work authorization is approved, you apply at the Romanian consulate for a D/AM long-stay employment visa.
   • You submit your passport, work authorization, medical insurance, proof of accommodation, criminal record check, and fees.
   • Typical processing time: around 10-15 calendar days, depending on the consulate and your case.

4. Enter Romania and apply for residence permit

   • Upon arriving with the D visa, start work under your contract and schedule your residence permit appointment with IGI within 30 days.
   • Submit biometric data, health insurance, employment documents, and housing proof.
   • Residence permits are generally issued for 1 year and renewable when employment continues.

5. EU Blue Card (optional, case-dependent)

   • For highly qualified roles with higher salary thresholds, the EU Blue Card is available. Some electrical engineering or senior commissioning roles may qualify if salary and qualifications meet criteria.

Documents and formalities

• Valid passport and signed employment contract.
• Work authorization granted to the employer before visa application.
• Criminal record certificate from your home country, apostilled or legalized as required.
• Educational and trade certificates, translated into Romanian by a certified translator.
• Medical certificate confirming fitness for work.
• Health insurance: private insurance for visa stage; public insurance applies after employment starts and contributions begin.

Note: Rules can evolve. Always confirm the latest steps with IGI and the Romanian consulate serving your country.

Certification & License Recognition

Working as an electrician in Romania typically requires authorization from ANRE (Autoritatea Nationala de Reglementare in domeniul Energiei). Employers often help you navigate this, but it is essential to understand the structure and path.

ANRE authorization overview

ANRE authorization covers design, execution, operation, and verification activities at various voltage levels. It is issued in grades and competence categories. At a high level:

• Grades I-II: Focus on low voltage (up to 1 kV) activities.
• Grades III-IV: Extend to medium voltage and high voltage activities.
• Competency categories often include design (A), execution (B), verification/inspection (C), and operation/exploitation (D), granted based on your education, experience, and exam results.

ANRE authorization is granted after review of your documentation and, typically, passing an exam. The license is personal and specifies the scope of work you are allowed to perform. Employers may hold company-level certifications as well, but you need your own authorization for individual tasks.

Converting and validating your credentials

1. Prepare documentation

   • Diplomas, trade certificates, apprenticeship completion records, and letters of experience stating voltages, systems, and responsibilities.
   • Translate documents into Romanian via a certified translator. Legalization or apostille may be required.

2. Map your experience to ANRE scope

   • Emphasize practical work on LV/MV systems, design vs execution, testing and commissioning, and safety responsibilities.

3. Apply for the appropriate grade and competency

   • If you primarily handle low voltage installation, start with Grade II, execution (B). If you have design background, include design (A).
   • Experienced MV technicians may target Grade III with execution (B), subject to exam and experience evidence.

4. Take the ANRE exam

   • Exams assess Romanian standards, safety, and practical application. Many training centers offer preparation courses in Romanian.
   • Expect questions referencing SR HD 60364 (aligned with IEC 60364) and Romanian normative documents such as Normativ I7 for low-voltage installations.

5. Maintain and renew

   • ANRE authorizations must be renewed periodically. Keep records of continuing professional development and comply with updates.

Romanian and EU standards you must know

• EU Low Voltage Directive (2014/35/EU): Safety requirements for equipment within certain voltage limits.
• EU EMC Directive (2014/30/EU): Electromagnetic compatibility requirements for equipment.
• SR HD 60364: Romanian adoption of IEC 60364 standards for LV installations.
• Romanian normative I7: Design and execution of building electrical installations (low voltage).
• Local distribution operator rules: Technical connection rules and metering standards specific to your region.

Common challenges when transitioning

• Voltage and frequency: Romania uses 230 V, 50 Hz, Type F (Schuko) outlets. If you come from 110-120 V regions, ensure all tools are 230 V rated or dual-voltage.
• Circuit topologies: Ring circuits are uncommon; expect radial circuits and RCDs per EU norms.
• Earthing systems: TN-C, TN-S, and TN-C-S in use; equipotential bonding practices are strictly enforced.
• Materials and markings: Expect CE-marked components, metric units, and EU labeling conventions.
• Documentation: As-built drawings, test sheets, and commissioning records follow EU-aligned formats.

Salary & Benefits

Salaries vary by city, specialization, and project type. The ranges below are realistic for 2025 and expressed both in RON and EUR (approx. 1 EUR = 5 RON). Net pay depends on tax rules, benefits, and overtime.

Typical monthly gross salary ranges

• Residential/commercial electrician: 6,000 - 10,000 RON gross (about 1,200 - 2,000 EUR)
• Industrial maintenance/automation electrician: 8,000 - 14,000 RON gross (about 1,600 - 2,800 EUR)
• Solar PV installer/commissioning tech: 7,000 - 12,000 RON gross (about 1,400 - 2,400 EUR)
• MV substation technician: 10,000 - 16,000 RON gross (about 2,000 - 3,200 EUR)

Note: Certain construction and energy roles may benefit from sector-specific tax facilities under Romanian law, which can improve net take-home pay. Confirm with your employer and request a net salary estimate.

Net earnings and extras

• Net monthly pay for a skilled electrician commonly falls around 4,000 - 8,000 RON (800 - 1,600 EUR), with higher nets for MV work, commissioning, and automation.
• Overtime, night shifts, and weekend work typically pay premiums.
• Per diem (diurna) for out-of-town projects is common; domestic per diem may be 50 - 60 RON/day, while international assignments pay in EUR according to internal policy.
• Meal vouchers (tichete de masa) often range around 35 - 45 RON per working day.
• Benefits can include company vehicle, fuel card, phone, PPE, paid training, and ANRE exam support.

City differentials

• Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca: Higher wages, higher rent.
• Timisoara: Strong industrial demand; balanced wages and living costs.
• Iasi: Growing market with moderate wages and lower rent.

Cost of Living

Romania offers a favorable cost profile, especially for those earning skilled trade wages.

Monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment

• Bucharest: 400 - 700 EUR (2,000 - 3,500 RON) depending on area and building age.
• Cluj-Napoca: 350 - 650 EUR (1,750 - 3,250 RON).
• Timisoara: 300 - 550 EUR (1,500 - 2,750 RON).
• Iasi: 280 - 500 EUR (1,400 - 2,500 RON).

Shared housing drops costs further. Newer apartments with good insulation and central heating command higher rates.

Utilities and internet

• Electricity, water, heating, garbage: 80 - 150 EUR/month (400 - 750 RON), depending on season and apartment size.
• Internet and mobile: 10 - 20 EUR/month (50 - 100 RON) for high-speed plans; Romania has excellent internet speeds.

Transportation

• Public transport pass: 15 - 20 EUR/month (75 - 100 RON) in major cities.
• Fuel: Roughly 1.4 - 1.7 EUR/liter depending on market conditions.
• Taxi and rideshare: Affordable; shorter city rides often under 5 - 8 EUR.

Groceries and dining

• Monthly groceries for one person: 150 - 250 EUR (750 - 1,250 RON) depending on diet.
• Lunch menu in a casual restaurant: 7 - 12 EUR (35 - 60 RON).
• Coffee: 2 - 3 EUR (10 - 15 RON).

Summary

A single electrician can comfortably cover living costs on mid-range salaries in Timisoara or Iasi and still save. Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca pay more but also cost more, especially for rent.

Cultural Integration

Adapting quickly improves your job performance and daily life.

Language basics

Romanian is a Romance language with many cognates to Italian, Spanish, and French. While younger professionals and managers often speak English, most site teams use Romanian day to day.

• Learn key phrases for safety briefings, tools, materials, and measurements.
• Ask your employer for bilingual safety signage or a buddy system during onboarding.
• Free apps and local courses can get you to functional site-level Romanian within months.

Workplace culture

• Safety first: Expect SSM (occupational safety) and PSI (fire safety) briefings. Toolbox talks are common.
• Punctuality and accountability: Arrive on time, document work, and use sign-off sheets for tasks.
• Paperwork and process: Permits to work, lockout/tagout, and test forms are standard in larger sites.
• Team orientation: Collaboration is valued. Be respectful and patient with language barriers.

Daily life tips

• Banking: Open a local bank account for salary deposits; bring your passport and residence permit.
• Healthcare: With an employment contract, you are enrolled in public health contributions. Many clinics and private options exist in larger cities.
• Driving: An international driving permit helps at first; some licenses can be exchanged depending on bilateral agreements.

Practical Steps to Relocate

A structured plan increases your success rate and reduces delays.

1. Clarify your target role

   • Decide between residential/commercial installation, industrial maintenance, automation, or renewable energy.
   • Align your CV to those priorities.

2. Prepare a Romania-ready CV

   • Include ANRE target grade, PV experience, MV exposure, PLC familiarity (if applicable), and safety training.
   • Add a concise skills section with tools, voltages, systems, and languages.

3. Research employers and projects

   • Focus on contractors active in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, or Iasi.
   • Review portfolios for PV fields, data centers, or industrial clients that match your skills.

4. Gather documents

   • Diplomas, trade certificates, references, training records (SSM, first aid), and ID documents.
   • Get certified translations into Romanian and prepare apostilles where applicable.

5. Apply strategically

   • Target employers with a history of hiring non-EU workers and offering work permit sponsorship.
   • Ask directly about ANRE support and exam preparation.

6. Interview preparation

   • Be ready to discuss EU safety practices, RCD usage, cable sizing methods, earthing, and test documentation.
   • Provide concrete examples of troubleshooting and commissioning wins.

7. Work authorization process

   • After an offer, coordinate with HR for the work authorization and D/AM visa steps.
   • Keep copies of everything and track deadlines for consulate appointments and IGI registration.

8. Housing plan

   • Book short-term accommodation for arrival (2-4 weeks) and schedule apartment viewings in your city.
   • Verify commute routes to your site or office.

9. Arrival checklist

   • Residence permit application at IGI within the legal timeframe.
   • Register with the local health system and, if required, a family doctor.
   • Open a bank account and obtain a tax identification number (if not already provided via employer).

10. ANRE path

• Enroll in ANRE preparation courses and schedule the exam window with guidance from your employer.
• Collect evidence logs: job tasks, voltages handled, and supervision level.

1. Safety onboarding

• Complete SSM and PSI trainings. Verify PPE, lockout/tagout kits, and test instruments compliance.

1. Build your network

• Join electrician groups and forums in Romania. Networking boosts your access to better projects and promotions.

1. Budget and savings plan

• Track expenses and plan for exam fees, tools, and travel. Set aside a buffer for your first 3 months.

1. Continuous improvement

• Aim for higher ANRE grades and add modules like PV design, thermography, fiber integration, or EV charging installation.

Success Tips

• Learn Romanian basics quickly: Safety and task instructions come faster when you know the keywords.
• Keep meticulous records: Photos, test sheets, and as-built notes help with ANRE applications and future promotions.
• Double-check standards: Confirm cable sizes, RCD types, and earthing references per SR HD 60364 and Normativ I7.
• Bring the right tools: CE-marked, 230 V compatible; consider EU plug adapters or Type F plugs and proper calibration certificates.
• Respect site routines: Sign-ins, toolbox talks, PPE checks, and method statements are taken seriously.
• Ask for mentorship: A Romanian lead electrician can accelerate your ANRE readiness and local code familiarity.
• Explore regions: Consider Timisoara or Iasi if Bucharest feels crowded or rents are high.

Legal and Technical Fine Points

• Employment contract: Expect a written contract in Romanian. Ask for an English summary. Verify salary as net or gross, overtime rates, and per diem.
• Taxes and contributions: Payroll typically withholds social and health contributions and income tax. Ask HR for a net pay simulation.
• Tool certification: Meters and testers should be compliant with IEC standards and CE marked. Insulation testers, RCD testers, and voltage detectors are essential for commissioning roles.
• Personal protective equipment: Insulated gloves, arc-rated clothing for MV tasks, and lockout devices are often employer-provided, but many electricians bring preferred gear.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Romania offers a strong blend of opportunity, affordability, and EU-aligned professional growth for international electricians. With clear steps to obtain work authorization, a structured ANRE licensing pathway, and high demand across construction, industry, and renewable energy, you can build a rewarding career and a stable life.

Your next move:

• Update your CV to highlight EU-relevant skills and ANRE goals.
• Target projects in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, or Iasi.
• Confirm employer support for visa sponsorship and ANRE exams.
• Start learning Romanian today and book your ANRE prep.

Make Romania your launchpad into the wider European electrical market in 2025 and beyond.

FAQ

1) Is ANRE authorization mandatory to work as an electrician in Romania?

For most professional electrician roles, yes. ANRE authorization confirms your competency and the scope of work you can perform, especially for execution, design, or MV activities. While you may start under supervision as you pursue ANRE, employers and clients typically require it for independent work. Always verify the exact scope required by your role.

2) How long does the visa and work permit process take for a Global citizen?

Typical timelines are 30 working days for the employer to secure the work authorization (aviz de munca), plus around 10-15 days for the D/AM visa processing at the consulate. After arrival, you must apply for a residence permit with IGI within the legal timeframe. Plan for 6-10 weeks total, but processing can vary by case and season.

3) Can my non-EU electrician license from my home country be used directly in Romania?

Not directly. You must apply for ANRE authorization. However, your foreign experience and qualifications help determine the grade and competencies you can obtain. Provide detailed records, translated into Romanian, and prepare for the ANRE exam that references Romanian and EU standards.

4) What salary can I realistically expect as a skilled electrician in Bucharest?

A skilled electrician in Bucharest may see gross salaries around 8,000 - 14,000 RON (1,600 - 2,800 EUR) per month, with net pay influenced by taxes, benefits, and overtime. Senior technicians in automation or MV substations may command higher packages. Confirm the net in your signed offer.

5) Are tools from 110 V countries usable in Romania?

Only if they are dual-voltage or specifically rated for 230 V, 50 Hz. Romania uses Type F (Schuko) plugs. Bring CE-compliant tools and meters. For battery tools, ensure chargers support 230 V. Use proper adapters and verify that your test instruments meet EU safety standards.

6) Do I need Romanian language skills to start?

You can start with basic English in some teams, especially in multinational firms. However, sites often operate in Romanian for daily communications and safety briefings. Learn site-relevant Romanian quickly. Employers appreciate and reward electricians who bridge language gaps.

7) Can I work as self-employed (PFA) in Romania as a non-EU citizen?

It is possible but more complex. Most non-EU electricians first work under a standard employment contract and residence permit. After settling, some transition to self-employment structures in compliance with immigration and tax rules. Consult an immigration specialist and accountant before pursuing this route.

8) What are common Romanian electrical standards that differ from my home country?

Expect 230 V, 50 Hz systems, TN earthing topologies, RCD usage per SR HD 60364, and bonding practices aligned with EU norms. Ring circuits are rare. Panel labeling, breaker selection, and cable sizing follow EU and Romanian normative documents like Normativ I7. Materials and enclosures adhere to IP and IK ratings common in EU markets.

9) What benefits should I negotiate?

Beyond base pay, ask for overtime rates, meal vouchers, per diem for travel, accommodation for out-of-town sites, transport or vehicle allowance, PPE, ANRE exam fees, and training. For renewable or MV roles, clarify travel and weather downtime policies.

10) How do living costs compare between Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi?

Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca have higher rents and overall costs. Timisoara and Iasi are more affordable while still offering strong job markets. Salaries often scale with the city, but you can save more easily in Timisoara or Iasi on the same skill set.

11) Can I bring my family with me?

Yes. After you secure your residence permit, your spouse and dependents may be eligible for family reunification visas. Confirm timelines and documentation with IGI and the Romanian consulate. Consider schooling options and health insurance coverage when planning.

12) What safety trainings are required when I start?

You will complete SSM (occupational safety) and PSI (fire safety) trainings, plus site-specific inductions. High-risk tasks require permits to work and lockout/tagout. For MV roles, additional certifications or proof of competency may be required. Keep your training records updated and accessible.