Reintegrating into Your Home Country After Working Abroad

Introduction

If you are a professional electrician who has been working abroad and are now considering relocating to Romania, you are standing at a promising crossroads. Romania offers a rare combination: EU market access, growing investment in infrastructure and renewable energy, and a cost of living that stretches your earnings further than in many Western European cities. Whether Romania is your home country and you are returning after years overseas, or you are a Global citizen moving to Romania for the first time, this guide shows you, step by step, how to transfer your international skills and certifications into Romania's electrical and construction services market.

This article focuses on the practical realities of reentering the Romanian labor market as an electrician: how ANRE authorization works, how Romanian electrical standards compare with what you may have used abroad, what salaries you can realistically expect, and how to navigate visas, residence, and cultural integration. You will also find detailed tips for getting hired in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi; where your experience in industrial wiring, renewable energy systems, and smart building automation will be valued; and how to ensure your tools, test equipment, and safety certifications align with local requirements.

If you want an actionable roadmap to make your move smooth, compliant, and rewarding, you are in the right place.

Why Romania?

EU membership and market access

Romania is part of the European Union, which means standardized product directives, familiar safety frameworks, and access to a wide pool of suppliers and projects. For electricians, this translates into:

• Alignment with EU low voltage directives and harmonized standards that you may already know from other EU countries.
• Opportunities to work on EU-funded infrastructure, energy efficiency, and digitalization projects.
• Easier mobility within the EU market once you establish your career in Romania.

Competitive cost of living

Compared with many Western European hubs, Romania's major cities still offer relatively affordable housing, transportation, utilities, and services. Your take-home pay goes further in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi than in many Global capitals. This is a strong advantage for electricians who want to save, invest in tools, or support family goals.

Quality of life

Romania balances vibrant urban life with easy access to nature. You can build a career in growing cities and enjoy mountains, forests, and the Black Sea within hours. Public healthcare coverage, a range of private clinics, expanding public transport, and a flourishing tech and services ecosystem all contribute to a livable daily routine.

Electrician demand is rising

Demand for skilled electricians has increased due to:

• Renewable energy deployments (rooftop solar, commercial solar farms, energy storage, EV charging).
• Industrial modernization and automation in manufacturing hubs.
• Residential construction booms and retrofits, especially in fast-expanding suburbs and new mixed-use developments.
• Smart building systems, integrated BMS, and IoT retrofits that require precise electrical and low-voltage expertise.

Your international experience can translate directly into higher employability in these segments.

Job Market Overview: Where Electricians Are Needed

Romania's electrical and construction services market spans from traditional residential wiring to cutting-edge industrial automation. Here are the high-opportunity areas and who is hiring.

1) Renewable energy installations

• Rooftop PV for residential and small commercial clients.
• Commercial-scale solar on logistics centers and manufacturing plants.
• EV charging infrastructure for retail, office parks, and public spaces.
• Hybrid systems with battery storage and energy management.

Typical employers:

• Renewable energy companies and EPC contractors specializing in PV.
• Electrical contractors focused on prosumer installations and grid connections.
• Facility managers and energy services companies (ESCOs).

Where the work is:

• Bucharest and Ilfov for large commercial clients and retail networks.
• Cluj-Napoca and Timisoara for tech parks, logistics, and industrial clients.
• Iasi and surrounding counties for public projects and residential PV growth.

Your edge:

• Hands-on PV installation experience, inverter commissioning, grid interconnection procedures, and familiarity with EU low voltage directives.
• Documented safety practices on live DC systems and working at heights.

2) Industrial wiring and automation

• Production line installations and relocations.
• Cable tray systems, motor control centers, VFDs, PLC-panel wiring.
• Preventive maintenance in automotive, electronics, food, and heavy industry.

Typical employers:

• Industrial electrical contractors and systems integrators.
• Manufacturing plants with in-house maintenance teams.
• Multinationals operating industrial parks.

Where the work is:

• Timisoara and Arad corridor for automotive and components suppliers.
• Cluj-Napoca for electronics and high-tech manufacturing.
• Iasi and Bacau for mixed industry and logistics.
• Bucharest for data centers, logistics hubs, and industrial services.

Your edge:

• International experience installing industrial control systems, reading P&IDs, and commissioning automation.
• Understanding of lockout/tagout and EU machinery safety practices.

3) Residential and commercial construction

• New build apartments and single-family homes.
• Office and retail fit-outs, hotels, and mixed-use developments.
• Retrofit and energy efficiency upgrades (LED, controls, building management integration).

Typical employers:

• Electrical contractors serving general contractors and developers.
• Specialty firms for lighting control, access control, and CCTV.

Where the work is:

• Bucharest, Ilfov, and ring-road suburbs with high construction volumes.
• Cluj-Napoca's expansion into new neighborhoods.
• Timisoara's new residential and logistics projects.
• Iasi's growth in residential and student housing.

Your edge:

• Delivering neat, code-compliant work to schedule, with strong client communication.
• Knowledge of smart home protocols and structured cabling.

4) Smart building systems and low-voltage

• BMS, access control, CCTV, fire detection, and integration with HVAC and lighting.
• Retrofits to bring legacy buildings up to modern efficiency and safety standards.

Typical employers:

• System integrators and low-voltage specialists.
• Facility management companies.

Where the work is:

• Bucharest for corporate and government buildings.
• Cluj-Napoca and Timisoara for tech campuses and modern office parks.

Your edge:

• Vendor certifications (BMS, fire panels, access control) and experience integrating subsystems.

5) Grid connection and maintenance

• New consumer connections and upgrades for prosumers.
• Maintenance on low and medium voltage networks (with the required authorizations).

Typical employers:

• Electrical contractors approved by grid operators.
• Companies specializing in PRAM testing and earthing/lightning protection checks.

Your edge:

• Hands-on testing and measurement experience, accurate documentation, and understanding of distribution operator procedures.

Legal Requirements: Work Authorization and Visas

Your pathway depends on your citizenship status. Below is a high-level overview. Always verify current processes with the Romanian authorities, as procedures and fees can change.

Romanian citizens returning home

• No visa or work permit is required.
• Ensure your Romanian ID (CI) or passport is valid.
• If you studied or worked abroad, gather proof of your qualifications and employment references. You may need official translations for certain applications.
• If you plan to start a business (PFA or SRL), prepare your tax registration and business address. Many electricians returning home successfully operate as contractors.

EU/EEA/Swiss citizens

• No visa needed. You can enter, work, and reside with fewer formalities.
• Register your residence if you plan to stay more than 3 months. You will receive a registration certificate.
• Obtain a personal numeric code (CNP) if required for employment and taxation.

Non-EU citizens (Global)

Typical sequence:

1. Job offer: Secure a job from a Romanian employer.
2. Work authorization: The employer applies for a work authorization (aviz de munca) from the immigration authority. Expect several weeks for processing, subject to quotas.
3. Long-stay visa for work: Once approved, you apply for a long-stay work visa (often category D/AM) at a Romanian consulate.
4. Entry and residence permit: After entering Romania on the visa, apply for a residence permit for work, usually within 90 days. The residence permit is typically valid for the duration of your labor contract.

Key documents you may need:

• Valid passport, job contract/offer, employer's company documents.
• Proof of accommodation and health insurance.
• Criminal record certificate from your country of residence.
• Educational and professional certificates with legalized translations and, where applicable, apostille/legalization.

Other options to explore:

• EU Blue Card if you qualify for highly skilled employment (usually more relevant to engineers, but some supervisory or specialist roles may fit).
• Intra-company transfer if your multinational employer posts you to Romania.

Tip: Start the document collection early. Many electricians lose time waiting for criminal record certificates or diploma attestations. Keep certified translations ready.

Certification and License Recognition in Romania

ANRE authorization for electricians

In Romania, electricians who design, execute, or operate electrical installations typically require authorization from ANRE (the national energy regulator). While the exact structure and naming can be updated by ANRE, in practice you will encounter two core aspects:

• Scope of activity: design vs. execution vs. operation/maintenance.
• Voltage levels: low voltage (LV), medium voltage (MV), high voltage (HV).

Commonly used distinctions include:

• Types related to the nature of work, often including design and execution categories.
• Grades aligned with voltage levels (for example, authorization to work up to 1 kV, up to 20 kV, up to 110 kV, and above), with increasing requirements for experience and examinations.

What this means for you:

• If your work abroad involved LV residential/commercial installations, you will likely target the authorization appropriate for LV execution and possibly design, depending on your qualifications.
• If you worked on MV or HV industrial systems, apply for the corresponding higher-level authorization. Expect stricter requirements for experience documentation.

Typical ANRE application package includes:

• Application form and processing fee.
• Proof of education in the electrical field (diplomas, transcripts).
• Evidence of professional experience (employment contracts, recommendation letters, portfolios of works).
• Safety training certificates.
• For higher-grade authorizations, proof of relevant work on those voltage levels.
• Sometimes an exam or interview to verify knowledge of Romanian standards and regulations.

Validity and renewals:

• ANRE authorizations are issued for a fixed term and must be renewed periodically.
• Continuing professional development or proof of ongoing activity may be required at renewal.

Practical advice:

• Gather detailed references from your foreign employers describing the type of installations, voltage levels, and your responsibilities.
• Translate documents to Romanian using authorized translators.
• Review practice exams or guidance notes focused on Romanian norms before attempting the ANRE exam, even if you have strong international experience.

Recognition of educational diplomas

If your diploma is from outside Romania, you may need recognition from the National Center for Recognition and Equivalence of Diplomas (CNRED) or the relevant Romanian authority. Steps often include:

• Submission of your diploma, transcript, and course syllabi if requested.
• Notarized copies and sworn translations into Romanian.
• Apostille or legalization, depending on your country of issue.

This recognition is helpful when your ANRE application or employer needs verified proof of your technical education level.

Romanian electrical standards to know

While much of Romania's framework aligns with EU practices, you must be comfortable with the local norms used daily on sites and by inspectors:

• National adaptations of the IEC/HD 60364 series for low voltage installations.
• National building electrical installation normative documents for design and execution.
• Standards for earthing and lightning protection.
• Standards for protective measures, cable selection, and verification testing.

If you worked in Western Europe, you will recognize many concepts; however, the Romanian normatives and naming conventions can differ. Before your ANRE exam or first project, learn where the Romanian rules are stricter or simply different in format and documentation.

EU low voltage directives and CE marking

You should already be familiar with the EU Low Voltage Directive (2014/35/EU) and related safety principles. In Romania, as elsewhere in the EU, products you install must carry CE marking and comply with applicable directives. For electricians, this affects:

• Selection of protective devices, switchgear, and consumer units.
• Using CE-marked power tools and ensuring their ongoing safety and calibration.
• Verifying that EV chargers, inverters, and other power electronics meet EU requirements.

Safety certifications and site trainings

Beyond ANRE, everyday site work requires:

• Occupational health and safety training (SSM). Expect induction and periodic refreshers, with logs maintained by your employer.
• Fire safety training (PSI) where required.
• If working with explosion-risk areas, ATEX training according to EU directives may be required by employers in petrochemical or gas sectors.
• For PRAM testing (earthing and lightning protection measurements), you will need appropriate training, a compliant tester, and calibration certificates from authorized metrology labs.

Specialized authorizations and vendor trainings

• PV and inverter vendor courses improve employability in renewable energy roles and may be required by some EPCs.
• BMS, fire detection, or access control system certifications are highly valued in smart building roles.
• Lift, boiler, or pressure equipment work falls under other authorities; coordinate with specialists where your job overlaps.

Salary and Benefits: What You Can Expect

Salary ranges vary by city, specialization, and whether you are employed or contracting. The figures below are general guidance and reflect typical ranges observed across Romania. Your actual offer may differ based on experience, certifications, and the employer's profile.

Hourly rates for electricians:

• Entry-level or junior LV installer: about 25-40 RON/hour.
• Experienced LV installer or foreman: about 40-60 RON/hour.
• Industrial electrician with automation experience: about 50-80 RON/hour.

Monthly net salary ranges (after taxes), full-time employment:

• Residential/commercial LV electrician: roughly 4,000-7,000 RON net.
• Industrial electrician (automation, PLC-panel wiring, MV exposure): roughly 6,000-10,000 RON net.
• Site supervisor/foreman: roughly 8,000-12,000 RON net.
• Project manager or specialist roles (e.g., EV charging lead, PV commissioning lead): can exceed 10,000 RON net, depending on scope and city.

City differences:

• Bucharest generally pays at the top end, followed by Cluj-Napoca and Timisoara. Iasi and other regional cities may be slightly lower but often have lower living costs.

Common benefits:

• Meal vouchers (tichete de masa), a standard perk.
• Overtime pay or time off in lieu.
• Company vehicle or mileage allowance for site work.
• Work phone, tools allowance, PPE provided.
• Health insurance top-ups or private clinic subscriptions.

Contracting as PFA or SRL:

• Higher day rates are possible, but you handle your taxes, social contributions, and insurance.
• Clients may expect you to supply tools, testers, and occasionally a van.

Negotiation tips:

• Present your international portfolio with focus on Romanian market relevance (for example, PV commissioning, industrial relocations, or BMS integration experience).
• Bring calibration certificates for test equipment and proof of safety training.
• ANRE authorization often shifts offers upward; plan your application timeline accordingly.

Cost of Living in Romanian Cities

Overall, Romania remains more affordable than many Western European countries, though costs in major cities have risen in recent years.

Approximate monthly costs (EUR figures to aid comparison):

Housing (long-term rentals):

• Bucharest: 1-bedroom apartment 400-700 EUR; 2-bedroom 650-1,000 EUR depending on neighborhood and proximity to metro.
• Cluj-Napoca: 1-bedroom 350-600 EUR; 2-bedroom 550-900 EUR.
• Timisoara: 1-bedroom 300-550 EUR; 2-bedroom 500-800 EUR.
• Iasi: 1-bedroom 300-500 EUR; 2-bedroom 450-750 EUR.

Utilities (electricity, heating, water, waste):

• 60-120 EUR per month for a modest apartment; more in winter or for larger spaces.

Internet and mobile:

• Broadband internet packages around 7-15 EUR per month.
• Mobile plans around 5-15 EUR per month depending on data and minutes.

Public transport (monthly passes):

• Bucharest: integrated metro and bus/tram options; expect roughly 15-30 EUR monthly depending on the pass.
• Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, Iasi: typically 10-20 EUR monthly.

Groceries and daily expenses:

• A single person might spend 200-300 EUR monthly on groceries with careful planning.
• Eating out is variable: a workday lunch can be 6-12 EUR; coffee 2-3 EUR.

Fuel and car costs:

• Fuel prices fluctuate; plan roughly 1.3-1.6 EUR per liter.
• Parking in city centers can add up; many electricians rely on company vehicles for site work.

Family costs:

• Kindergartens and private childcare vary widely; public places may have waiting lists.
• Private health insurance or specialist dentist/ophthalmology visits may add 20-60 EUR monthly per person if you opt for private services.

Budget examples:

• Single electrician in Timisoara sharing accommodation: 700-1,000 EUR monthly total spend is common.
• Small family in Bucharest renting a 2-bedroom: 1,400-2,000 EUR monthly total spend depending on lifestyle.

Tip: Avoid short-term holiday rentals for long stays. Sign a standard lease and negotiate slightly lower rent for longer terms, especially outside of peak academic or corporate seasons.

Cultural Integration: How Work Gets Done in Romania

Language basics

Romanian is the language of work, safety briefings, and documentation on most sites. In large multinationals and tech parks, English is common, but do not assume it covers everything. Learn core job-related Romanian terms early:

• Intrerupator (switch), tablou (distribution board), siguranta (breaker), impamantare (earthing), protectie differentiala (RCD), conductor, cablu, tubulatura, traseu, doza, derivatie, tensiune, curent, aparataj, punte, prize.
• Site routines: predare-primire (handover), receptie (acceptance), deviz (bill of quantities), aviz (approval), proces verbal (site record), masuratori PRAM (earthing/lightning measurements).

Workplace culture

• Professional respect is earned through punctuality, safety discipline, and clean, verifiable work.
• Documentation matters: keep records of tests, measurements, materials used, and as-built changes.
• Safety gear is expected. Regular SSM briefings and toolbox talks are common.
• Hierarchy exists, but practical expertise is respected. Supervisors appreciate proactive problem solving that stays within safety and code constraints.

Communication style

• Be clear and concise. Confirm scope, deadlines, and dependencies in writing.
• If you are new to Romanian norms, ask for the standard forms and checklists. People will usually help if you show initiative.

Outside of work

• Building a local network helps find better jobs. Attend trade fairs, vendor demos, and training sessions in major cities.
• Romania is friendly to family life; weekends and holidays are valued. Plan site overtime thoughtfully and communicate early when schedules tighten.

Practical Steps to Relocate and Reintegrate

Use this step-by-step plan to reduce surprises and keep momentum.

3-6 months before arrival

1. Research target cities:

• Bucharest: strong demand across all segments; fast pace; higher rents.
• Cluj-Napoca: tech-driven demand, balanced lifestyle.
• Timisoara: industrial base, logistics, and cross-border connections.
• Iasi: growing construction and public projects, strong university presence.

1. Map your skills to Romanian demand:

• List your core strengths: PV installation, industrial wiring, BMS, EVSE.
• Match them with local employers: electrical contractors, EPCs, integrators, facility managers.

1. Prepare your documents:

• Diplomas, transcripts, apprenticeship completion certificates.
• Employment letters describing roles, voltage levels, and responsibilities.
• Safety training records, calibration certificates for testers.
• Criminal record certificate if you are a non-EU applicant for a work permit.
• Certified Romanian translations and apostilles where applicable.

1. Plan your ANRE pathway:

• Identify the authorization type and grade you will target.
• Register for preparatory courses if available.
• Collect evidence of relevant experience and projects.

1. Connect with employers:

• Update your CV for Romania, including a clear list of certifications and tools you own.
• Contact contractors and integrators in your target city; request informational interviews.
• Join local electrician and renewable energy groups online.

1-2 months before arrival

1. Shortlist job opportunities:

• Prioritize employers who recognize international experience and value ANRE authorization.
• Consider hybrid roles: site lead, commissioning technician, or service engineer.

1. Arrange housing and logistics:

• Book temporary housing for two to four weeks to allow local viewings.
• Prepare finances for deposits and first month's rent.

1. Tooling plan:

• Decide what to bring vs. buy locally. Ensure your tools are CE-marked and compatible with 230 V.
• Organize calibration certificates for testers. Check warranty and service options in Romania.

Arrival and first month

1. Legal formalities:

• Romanian citizens: update your ID address if needed, register for healthcare if you have been abroad.
• EU citizens: register your residence if staying longer than 3 months.
• Non-EU citizens: finalize residence permit after entry on a long-stay visa.

1. ANRE application and training:

• Submit your ANRE application with translated documents.
• Schedule your exam or interview, if required.
• Enroll in SSM and PSI trainings through your employer.

1. Job trials and interviews:

• Many contractors favor practical trials. Bring PPE, demonstrate safe work, and document your approach.
• Share photos and drawings from previous projects to illustrate your quality standards.

Months 2-6

1. Pass your ANRE authorization and expand scope:

• Once authorized, inform your employer or clients and adjust your rates if you operate as a contractor.

1. Specialize strategically:

• Add vendor-specific PV, EVSE, or BMS certifications.
• Consider PRAM measurement specialization if your interest is in testing and compliance.

1. Build your network:

• Attend trade events in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi.
• Join professional associations and online forums.

1. Stabilize your logistics:

• Choose long-term housing convenient to your typical work zones.
• Purchase or lease a van if contracting; secure tool storage.

Starting a business (optional)

• PFA (sole trader) is simpler to start but may limit certain activities and scale.
• SRL (limited company) offers more flexibility, the option to employ others, and may appeal to larger clients.
• Register with the trade registry, open a business bank account, and set up accounting. Understand VAT thresholds and invoicing rules.

Common Challenges and How to Solve Them

1. Romanian electrical standards differ from what you used abroad.

• Solution: Study the local normative documents and attend refresher seminars. Build a personal handbook mapping foreign standards to Romanian equivalents.

1. Voltage and device differences.

• Solution: Romania uses 230 V single-phase and 400 V three-phase systems. Verify device ratings, cable sizing, and protection settings. Validate RCD types for specific loads (e.g., EV chargers).

1. Local codes and documentation formats.

• Solution: Ask for sample site forms (process verbal, deviz, test reports). Create templates you can reuse.

1. Tool certification and calibration.

• Solution: Ensure tools are CE-marked and testers have up-to-date calibration from an authorized lab. Keep copies of certificates on your phone and in a site folder.

1. Language barriers.

• Solution: Learn job-specific Romanian first. Label your toolbox and checklists in both languages. Ask a colleague to proof key documents until you are comfortable.

1. Finding trustworthy suppliers.

• Solution: Build relationships with reputable wholesalers in your city. Compare brands and warranty policies. Keep a list of preferred parts that meet Romanian standards.

Success Tips From Other Returnees and Expats

• Lead with safety: Employers quickly trust electricians who demonstrate consistent lockout/tagout practices, PPE use, and thorough testing before energizing.
• Show your math: When discussing cable sizing or breaker selection, reference the calculation or standard. This makes supervisors comfortable with your judgment.
• Bring a portfolio: Photos of neat panels, labeled wiring, and clean terminations speak volumes. Add captions in English and Romanian.
• Earn ANRE early: Start your authorization process as soon as possible. It unlocks higher responsibility and pay.
• Be documentation-focused: Set yourself apart with accurate as-built drawings and clear test reports.
• Network smartly: Introduce yourself to project managers at contractors and integrators, not just HR. They know where the real gaps are.
• Keep learning: Vendor trainings in PV inverters, EVSE, BMS, or fire detection panels are quick credibility boosts.

Conclusion: Your Next Step

Romania is an excellent place to reintegrate after working abroad or to establish yourself if you are moving from Global to a growing EU market. If you bring a strong safety mindset, disciplined workmanship, and a willingness to align with Romanian standards and ANRE authorization, you will find steady work and room to advance in renewable energy, industrial automation, residential construction, and smart buildings.

Start now: gather your documents, plan your ANRE path, reach out to employers in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Iasi, and map your first six months. With a clear plan, your reintegration into Romania's electrical and construction services market can be smooth, compliant, and rewarding.

FAQ

1) Do I need ANRE authorization to work as an electrician in Romania?

Most roles that involve designing, executing, or operating electrical installations require ANRE authorization. Employers may allow supervised work while you complete your authorization, but independently signed work typically requires the proper ANRE type and grade. Always confirm with your employer and review the latest ANRE rules.

2) I am a Romanian citizen returning from abroad. How do I convert my foreign certifications?

First, gather your diplomas, transcripts, and employment references. Obtain sworn translations into Romanian, and apostille or legalize documents as needed. If your degree needs formal recognition, apply through CNRED or the relevant authority. Then apply for ANRE authorization using your recognized qualifications and documented experience. If your role requires specialized training (e.g., ATEX, PRAM), enroll in local courses to align with Romanian expectations.

3) I am a non-EU citizen. What is the visa and work permit path?

You generally need a job offer from a Romanian employer. The employer applies for a work authorization. With that approved, you apply for a long-stay work visa (commonly D/AM). After entering Romania, you apply for a residence permit for work. This process can take several weeks to a few months. Prepare documents early: criminal record certificate, health insurance, diplomas with recognized translations, and proof of accommodation.

4) What salary can I realistically expect as an experienced electrician?

In major Romanian cities, experienced LV electricians commonly earn around 4,000-7,000 RON net per month. Industrial electricians with automation or MV experience often earn 6,000-10,000 RON net. Supervisors and specialists can reach 8,000-12,000 RON net or more. Contractors (PFA/SRL) may earn higher daily rates but manage their own taxes and insurance.

5) Which Romanian cities offer the best electrician opportunities?

• Bucharest: top demand across residential, commercial, industrial, data centers, and renewables.
• Cluj-Napoca: strong in smart buildings, tech campuses, and quality residential projects.
• Timisoara: industrial wiring, automation, logistics, and cross-border projects.
• Iasi: residential growth, public projects, and university-driven demand.

6) What are the main differences in Romanian electrical standards compared to other countries?

Romania follows EU directives and harmonized standards but uses national normative documents for building installations, earthing, and verification procedures. Documentation formats, naming conventions, and certain installation practices may differ. Before your first project, review local normatives, typical test report formats, and distribution operator requirements for connections.

7) Can I bring my own tools and test equipment?

Yes, but ensure your tools are CE-marked and compatible with 230 V. Keep calibration certificates for test equipment up to date and recognized by authorized metrology labs. Some employers provide essential tools and PPE, but having your own calibrated tester increases your value and independence.

8) Can I work as a freelancer or open a company?

Yes. Many electricians operate as PFA or set up an SRL. As a contractor, you must manage invoicing, taxes, social contributions, insurance, and compliance. Larger clients may prefer SRLs. Discuss with an accountant to optimize your setup, VAT registration, and expense deductions.

9) How important is Romanian language proficiency?

For site work, Romanian is very helpful. Safety briefings, forms, and many client interactions are in Romanian. In multinational environments and vendor trainings, English is common, but do not rely on it for everything. Focus first on job-specific Romanian vocabulary and documentation terms.

10) What safety training do I need upon arrival?

Expect occupational health and safety (SSM) induction and periodic refreshers, plus fire safety (PSI) where applicable. If you work in hazardous areas, ATEX training may be required. Always follow employer procedures for lockout/tagout and site permits. Keep a personal file with your certificates and renewal dates.