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Register Your Company Name in Romania

by Simona Rotaru Company Formation in Romania, Corporate Law

 

 

 

Register Your Company Name in Romania

If you’re considering starting a business in Romania, registering your company name with the National Trade Register Office (ONRC) is the essential first step. For 2025, the process is streamlined, affordable, and can be completed entirely online within one business day.

On this page, you’ll find a clear, step-by-step guide to registering a company name in Romania, expected timelines, key requirements, common challenges, and how to proceed to full company formation in Romania. This article is ideal for entrepreneurs, both domestic and international, who want a swift name registration process with confidence in their business identity.

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What Does It Mean to Register a Company Name in Romania?

Registering a company name in Romania means officially reserving a unique business name with the National Trade Register Office (ONRC). This reservation protects your chosen name and establishes your business identity for legal purposes.

The name registration process is separate from full company formation in Romania. Registering your company name is the first essential step in establishing a business in Romania. It creates an official record proving you have the exclusive right to use that specific business name while you complete the remaining registration requirements.

Romanian law requires that every business operating in the country must have a unique, officially registered name. This prevents business name duplication and protects consumers who need to identify the companies they work with. The registration creates a public record accessible through the ONRC database, allowing anyone to verify company information.

Why Register a Company Name in Romania?

Legal Protection and Exclusivity

Registering your company name provides legal protection ensuring no other business in Romania can use an identical or confusingly similar name. This exclusivity applies nationwide throughout all of Romania, not just in your local jurisdiction.

Without name registration, another entrepreneur could establish a competing business with a nearly identical name, damaging your brand reputation and creating customer confusion. Name registration prevents this conflict by establishing priority rights to your chosen business name.

Prerequisite for Full Company Registration

Romanian law requires name reservation before you can complete full company formation. You cannot file incorporation documents with the ONRC without proof of a reserved company name. The name reservation certificate is mandatory documentation in your full registration packet.

This requirement ensures business names are verified for availability and legal compliance before companies are officially established. It prevents entrepreneurs from investing time and resources into incorporation only to discover their chosen name is unavailable.

Public Record and Brand Establishment

Registration creates an official public record establishing your business identity in Romania’s commercial registry. This official record builds credibility with customers, suppliers, banks, and government authorities.

When your company name appears in the ONRC registry, it becomes easier for business partners to verify your legitimate status. This public recognition helps establish your brand presence in the Romanian market.

Compliance with EU and Romanian Law

Registering your company name ensures compliance with Romanian legal requirements under Law 31/1990 (regarding limited liability companies and joint-stock companies) and Law 265/2022 (regarding trade register procedures). These laws govern how businesses must register and operate in Romania.

Meeting these legal requirements from the beginning protects your business from regulatory penalties and ensures your company can legally conduct business operations. For information on EU legal procedures, you can consult the European e-Justice Portal which provides guidance on civil procedures across member states.

Key Requirements for Registering a Company Name in Romania

Name Must Be Unique

Your chosen company name must be unique compared to existing Romanian companies and distinctive (not too general). The ONRC database contains records of all previously registered companies, and your name cannot match any existing business name.

If an existing company is named “Tech Solutions SRL,” you cannot register “Tech Solutions Ltd” or similar variations. The names must be sufficiently different that they are not too similar. The ONRC’s automated system checks for similarity and rejects applications when proposed names conflict with existing registrations.

Name Must Contain at Least One Romanian Word

The company name must include at least one word in Romanian. This requirement means your company name cannot consist entirely of foreign language words.

For example, “International Business Solutions” would not be acceptable because it contains no Romanian words. However, “International Solutions SRL” would be acceptable because “SRL” (the Romanian abbreviation for Limited Liability Company) satisfies this requirement. Alternatively, you could use “Business Solutions Internațional SRL” incorporating a Romanian language element.

Name Cannot Contain Restricted Words

Words such as “scientific,” “academy,” “university,” “scholar,” or “school,” or their derivatives are restricted and can only be included if the Government Secretariat or Prefecture’s Office provides authorization.

These restricted words are protected to maintain academic and scientific institution credibility. If your business requires using any restricted terminology, you must obtain special authorization from government authorities before your name can be approved.

Name Must Not Mislead About Business Nature

Your company name cannot mislead about your actual business activities or suggest false connections to government authorities. For example, if your company provides marketing services, you cannot name it “Health Ministry Consultants” as this would mislead customers about your business nature and falsely suggest government affiliation.

Name Should Be Sufficiently Long and Descriptive

It is recommended to use at least 2-3 words for the company name to ensure it is distinctive and not too short. Very short names like “Tech Ltd” or “Solutions SRL” are harder to distinguish from other companies and may face rejection.

Longer, more descriptive names help the ONRC system distinguish your company from others and reduce the risk of rejection due to similarity concerns.

The Step-by-Step Process to Register a Company Name in Romania

Step 1: Prepare Three Name Options

Before accessing the ONRC system, prepare at least three preferred company names in order of preference. This preparation ensures that if your first choice is unavailable, you have backup options ready to submit.

When selecting names, consider your business activities, target market, and brand identity. Verify mentally that each name meets the requirements: contains at least one Romanian word, is unique, and doesn’t use restricted terminology.

Step 2: Check Name Availability Online

Visit the National Trade Register Office (ONRC) website portal and use the online verification tool to search for existing businesses with similar names.

This preliminary search takes minutes and allows you to verify whether your preferred name is likely available before formally submitting the application. The ONRC database contains all registered companies, enabling you to check for duplicates or confusingly similar names.

Step 3: Access the ONRC Online Portal

Visit the official ONRC online portal. The portal provides digital access to name reservation services.

You will need to create an account or log in with existing credentials. The ONRC portal requires you to provide basic information including your identity details, contact information, and business information.

Step 4: Submit the Name Reservation Application

Log in to the ONRC platform, access the “Company Name Reservation” section from the main menu, read the personal data processing information notice, and press the “I have been informed” button to proceed.

In the application form, list your three preferred company names in order of preference. The online verification tool will search for existing businesses with similar names, and name verification and reservation works nationwide, not just in your registration county.

Step 5: Electronically Sign the Application

Electronically sign the application using a qualified digital signature issued by an accredited provider in Romania, ensuring that the signed document retains the exact same title as before signing.

Foreign applicants without Romanian digital signature certificates can alternatively submit applications through a representative with power of attorney or complete the process in person at an ONRC office.

Step 6: Submit the Signed Application

After signing the application, press the “Submit” button to send the request to the ONRC. The verification and approval process is automated and takes place quickly.

The ONRC system processes submitted applications in automated verification workflows, checking name availability and legal compliance. Most applications receive decisions on the same business day.

Step 7: Receive Your Name Reservation Certificate

Once approved, your name reservation stays valid for three months, giving you time to finish the remaining registration steps.

To obtain proof of name reservation, access the relevant section of your account and click the “Update Request” button, then download and keep the name reservation proof to use in the next steps of the registration process. The reservation certificate is an essential document proving you have reserved the name and must be included when filing full company incorporation documents with the ONRC.

Timeline for Registering a Company Name in Romania

The name reservation process is remarkably fast. The Trade Registry usually processes name reservations within one working day, and sometimes the same day.

Once you submit a complete, properly formatted application through the ONRC portal, you typically receive approval or rejection within 24 hours. Some applications are processed within hours on the same business day.

Your name reservation stays valid for three months, giving you time to finish the remaining registration steps. This three-month window allows you to prepare incorporation documents, open bank accounts, and complete other registration requirements without losing your reserved name.

If you don’t complete full company incorporation within three months, you must repeat the name reservation process with a new application.

Costs Associated with Registering a Company Name in Romania

Official ONRC Fee

The official ONRC fee for company name reservation is minimal and costs approximately EUR 5-10 (approximately 50-100 RON). This fee covers the automated verification and reservation process through the ONRC system.

This low cost makes name registration accessible to entrepreneurs at any startup stage. The fee is typically paid electronically through the ONRC portal when you submit your application.

Additional Optional Costs

If you work with a legal professional to assist with name registration, professional fees typically range from EUR 50-150. Many entrepreneurs complete name registration independently using the online portal to avoid these additional costs.

If you require document translation services (for example, if you are a foreign individual and need documents translated into Romanian), translation costs range from EUR 25-75 per document.

Common Challenges When Registering a Company Name in Romania

Similar Names Being Rejected

The most common challenge entrepreneurs face is discovering their preferred name is unavailable or too similar to existing registered companies. Finding unique names is getting harder, so it’s best to prepare about five alternative options.

If your first-choice name is rejected, you can immediately submit applications for your backup names. Having multiple options prepared prevents delays in the registration process.

Incorrectly Formatted Applications

Applications missing required information, improperly formatted, or lacking required declarations are rejected and must be resubmitted. Common errors include failing to include at least one Romanian word, not listing three name choices, or missing notarization requirements for foreign applicants.

Name Containing Restricted Terms

If your proposed name contains restricted words like “academy” or “university,” approval requires special authorization from government authorities. This authorization process delays name registration by several weeks.

Special Characters or Formatting Issues

The ONRC system has specific formatting requirements. Names containing special characters, unusual punctuation, or non-standard characters are sometimes rejected. The system prefers standard letters, numbers, and basic punctuation marks.

What Happens After Your Company Name Is Registered?

Three-Month Timeline to Complete Registration

After your name is reserved, you have exactly three months to file complete company incorporation documents with the ONRC. This deadline is firm—if you don’t complete incorporation within three months, the name reservation expires and you must repeat the reservation process.

Next Steps in Company Formation

With your reserved name confirmed, you proceed to complete your company formation by preparing incorporation documents including the Articles of Association, designating your registered office address, arranging share capital deposits, and preparing all required supporting documentation.

Our comprehensive guides on company formation in Romania and how to start a Limited Liability Company (SRL) in Romania cover all remaining steps after name registration, including capital requirements, document preparation, and ONRC filing procedures.

Failed Name Approval at Final Registration

In some cases, even though your name is reserved, the ONRC judge may ultimately reject the name when you file full incorporation documents. If this occurs, you must start over with a new company name reservation.

To minimize this risk, it’s advisable to submit multiple name options during the reservation phase, providing the ONRC with alternatives if the judge later identifies issues with your primary choice.

How Atrium Romanian Lawyers Can Help

Atrium Romanian Lawyers provides comprehensive support for company name registration and full company formation in Romania. Our team:

  • Conducts thorough name availability research to identify optimal business names
  • Prepares and submits name reservation applications through the ONRC portal
  • Guides you through complete company formation procedures after name reservation
  • Ensures compliance with all Romanian legal requirements
  • Provides representation before ONRC if issues arise during registration
  • Advises on business structure selection and registration strategy

As established experts in Romanian company law since 2003, Atrium understands the nuances of ONRC procedures and has successfully registered thousands of company names for both Romanian citizens and foreign investors across all sectors.

Key Takeaways for Registering a Company Name in Romania

Registering your company name in Romania is the essential first step in establishing a business. The process is streamlined, affordable, and quick—typically completed within one business day through the ONRC online portal.

Your reserved name remains valid for three months, providing sufficient time to complete full company incorporation. Prepare multiple name options to account for availability, ensure your chosen name includes at least one Romanian word, and avoid restricted terminology.

With your name successfully reserved, you can proceed confidently to incorporate your company knowing your business identity is legally protected and officially recognized in Romania’s commercial registry. The National Trade Register Office (ONRC) maintains all official records and documentation of registered business names throughout the country.

FAQ – Registering a Company Name in Romania

Q: How long does it take to register a company name in Romania?

A: Most name registrations are approved within one business day through the online ONRC portal, with many processed the same day of submission.

Q: Can I register a company name without Romanian citizenship?

A: Yes, foreigners and non-residents can register company names in Romania with the same process as Romanian citizens using the online ONRC portal or through a representative with power of attorney.

Q: What if my preferred company name is already taken?

A: Submit your backup name options listed in order of preference on the application form. The ONRC will reserve the first available name from your list.

Q: Can I change my company name after registration?

A: Yes, you can change your company name after incorporation by filing a modification request with the ONRC, though this involves additional procedures and costs.

Q: Is the name reservation valid indefinitely?

A: No, name reservations are valid for exactly three months. You must complete full company incorporation within this period or the reservation expires.

Q: Do I need a lawyer to register a company name?

A: No, you can complete name registration independently through the ONRC online portal. However, a lawyer can assist with the process and ensure compliance with all requirements.

Related Company Formation & Startup Resources

To support your journey in registering company names and establishing startups in Romania, explore these comprehensive guides:

Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a qualified Romanian corporate lawyer to verify current laws and regulations before proceeding with company name registration. Laws and procedures are subject to change, and individual circumstances may vary.

Essential Documents for Foreign Founders Starting a Business in Romania

Essential Documents for Foreign Founders Starting a Business in Romania

by Simona Rotaru Company Formation in Romania, Corporate Law

Essential Documents for Foreign Founders Starting a Business in Romania

What if the fastest way to launch a European business isn’t where you’d expect?

Romania’s streamlined corporate framework allows entrepreneurs to establish an SRL company in just three working days with current minimum capital requirements that have recently undergone significant changes in 2025.

A stack of official documents and forms on a desk.

But beneath this efficiency lies a critical question:

How can international investors avoid hidden pitfalls in documentation processes that could derail their ambitions?

Romania’s open-market policies permit full foreign ownership without local partnership mandates, creating attractive opportunities for global entrepreneurs.

However, the registration process demands precise adherence to legal standards.

Corporate filings must align with Trade Register specifications, including certified translations into Romanian or bilingual formats.

Strategic document preparation forms the backbone of successful incorporation.

Errors in paperwork often lead to delays, financial penalties, or rejected applications.

Professional legal guidance from lawyers in Romania ensures compliance with corporate law frameworks while maintaining operational legitimacy from day one.

Investors benefit from understanding how each document interacts with regulatory systems.

Properly structured articles of association, shareholder agreements, and notarized identification papers establish transparent governance structures.

These elements collectively safeguard business interests within Romania’s evolving economic landscape.

Key Takeaways

  • Romania permits 100% foreign-owned companies with fast 3-day Trade Register approval timelines,
  • Document preparation requires strict compliance with Romanian language standards,
  • Legal expertise minimizes risks of administrative delays or non-compliance penalties,
  • Corporate filings must align with Trade Register specifications for approval,
  • Precise paperwork establishes long-term operational legitimacy,
  • VAT rate increased to 21% in August 2025, with registration threshold at RON 395,000,
  • Minimum capital requirements are undergoing reform, with new tiered structure proposed.

Introduction to Business Registration in Romania

A businessman reviewing papers at a desk.

Romania’s economic landscape presents a compelling proposition for global enterprises seeking competitive positioning in Europe.

As an EU member state, the country serves as a strategic crossroads connecting major continental markets.

This geographic advantage, combined with progressive regulatory frameworks, creates fertile ground for sustainable business growth.

Overview of the Romanian Market

A group of diverse business people reviewing documents around a table.

The local market distinguishes itself through a growing pool of skilled workforce, particularly in technology and engineering sectors.

Romania produces approximately 18.6 STEM graduates per 1,000 people aged 20-29, though this remains below the EU average of 23.0.

The country is actively working to expand its technical education programs.

Operational costs remain 34-51% lower than Western European averages without compromising service quality, with Romanian developer salaries approximately 40% below comparable Western rates.

Infrastructure development continues accelerating across transportation and digital networks.

Modern highways connect major cities to EU trade routes, while digital coverage expands nationwide.

These advancements enable companies to maintain efficient supply chains and regional operations.

Benefits for Foreign Entrepreneurs

Several colorful flags are displayed on a desk next to business papers.

Romania offers foreign investors streamlined processes through recent legal reforms.

The elimination of redundant permits and digital filing systems reduces Trade Register approval to approximately three working days.

EU membership guarantees alignment with continental standards while preserving local cost advantages.

Investors benefit from tax incentives for research-driven business initiatives and export-oriented activities.

Cultural adaptability further enhances market entry, with English widely spoken in professional environments.

These factors position the country as an attractive destination for scalable international ventures.

Why Start a Business in Romania?

A close-up of a business plan document with charts and graphs.

Romania’s tax and regulatory systems create a unique value proposition for commercial ventures targeting European markets.

Strategic fiscal policies combine with progressive legislative changes to support both startups and established enterprises.

Attractive Tax Environment

A smiling business person holding a briefcase and standing in front of a modern office building.

The country maintains one of Europe’s most competitive tax frameworks, though recent changes require careful attention.

Microenterprises benefit from a 1% revenue tax when employing at least one worker and earning up to €60,000 annually.

For revenues above €60,000 or for specific sectors like IT services (CAEN codes 6210, 6290) and restaurants, a 3% rate applies.

Traditional corporations face a flat 16% profit tax.

Tax TypeRateConditions
Microenterprise1%Revenue under €60K with 1+ employee
Microenterprise3%Revenue €60K-€250K (€100K from 2026) or IT/restaurant activities
Corporate Profit16%Standard companies
Dividends10%Increased from 8% in January 2025
Standard VAT21%Increased from 19% in August 2025
Reduced VAT11%Consolidated rate from August 2025

Favorable Legal Reforms

Recent legislative updates streamline operations for international investors.

Digital registration systems cut Trade Register processing times to 3 working days, while revised thresholds for micro-tax status continue until 2026, though the revenue limit decreases from €250,000 to €100,000 starting January 2026.

Enhanced transparency measures reduce bureaucratic hurdles.

Special support programs assist startups in navigating compliance requirements, ensuring smooth market entry.

However, investors must stay updated on frequent tax law changes, including the August 2025 VAT increase from 19% to 21%.

Understanding Legal Structures for Foreign Founders

Selecting the optimal legal framework forms the cornerstone of successful business operations.

Romania offers multiple corporate formats, each aligning with specific operational scales and strategic objectives.

Three primary options dominate commercial registrations, balancing legal safeguards with administrative practicality.

Limited Liability Company (SRL)

An open laptop displaying a business registration website.

The Societate cu Răspundere Limitată (SRL) remains the preferred choice for most ventures.

This structure provides limited liability protection, shielding personal assets from business debts.

Requirements include:

  • 1–50 shareholders
  • Minimum share capital currently ranges from RON 1 to RON 200 (sources vary), with a new tiered proposal for 2025-2026: RON 500 for new companies, increasing to RON 5,000 for revenues between RON 395,000-7 million, and RON 90,000 for revenues exceeding RON 7 million,
  • Simplified management structures.

Governance flexibility allows swift decision-making, ideal for small-to-medium enterprises. Annual reporting obligations remain manageable compared to complex entities.

StructureShareholdersCurrent CapitalProposed Capital (2025-2026)Best For
SRL1–50RON 1-200RON 500-90,000 (tiered)Startups/SMEs
SAUnlimitedRON 90,000RON 90,000 (€25,000)Large enterprises

 

Joint-Stock Company (SA) and Other Options

A group of diverse people discussing papers around a table.

The Societate pe Acțiuni (SA) suits ventures planning IPOs or major investments.

Key features include:

  • Minimum capital: RON 90,000 (approximately €25,000),
  • Public share trading capability,
  • Formal governance requirements.

Alternative structures like branches or partnerships serve niche scenarios.

Professional guidance ensures alignment between legal frameworks and long-term growth strategies, particularly given the evolving minimum capital requirements.

Required Documents for Foreign Founders in Romania

A person holding a passport and a business plan.

Navigating corporate registration demands meticulous attention to foundational paperwork.

Seven core submissions form the basis of compliant filings, supported by supplementary materials that address cross-border complexities.

The application form and tax annex require detailed operational data, including management structures and activity codes.

Identity verification for administrators ( directors) necessitates certified copies of passports or national IDs, translated into Romanian by authorized professionals.

Shareholder affidavits confirm tax status for individuals lacking local fiscal identification.

These declarations prevent delays during fiscal authority reviews.

Articles of Association drafted in Romanian establish governance protocols, requiring alignment with national corporate law frameworks.

Proof of registered office ranges from property deeds to virtual office contracts, validating a physical business address.

Beneficial ownership disclosures meet EU anti-money laundering directives, tracing control chains for transparency.

Optional apostille certifications authenticate foreign-signed documents.

While not mandatory, these additions streamline verification processes across jurisdictions.

Professional legal review ensures technical accuracy before Trade Register submission, particularly important given recent regulatory changes.

Preparing Your Articles of Association and Registered Office

A person is typing on a laptop with documents spread out on a table.

The foundation of a compliant Romanian enterprise lies in two critical components: constitutional documents and physical establishment.

These elements define operational boundaries while meeting legal obligations under national corporate frameworks.

Drafting the Articles of Association

A person reviews a document with a focused expression while sitting at a table.

Articles of Association act as a company’s operational blueprint.

This legally binding document must specify shareholder voting rights, capital distribution models, and decision-making hierarchies.

Romanian law mandates inclusion of NACE codes to classify business activities accurately.

Management roles require precise definitions of authority limits and appointment procedures.

Provisions for General Meetings must outline resolution processes and quorum requirements.

Legal professionals recommend embedding flexibility clauses to accommodate future growth scenarios, including provisions for the new tiered minimum capital requirements expected to phase in through 2026.

Establishing a Proof of Registered Office

All entities must maintain a verifiable registered office within Romania.

Valid proof includes notarized lease agreements or property ownership documents.

Virtual office contracts have gained traction for cost efficiency while fulfilling legal address requirements.

Service providers offering virtual solutions must issue compliance certificates recognized by the Trade Register.

Physical locations require utility bills or municipal confirmations.

Consistent address details across all filings prevent administrative delays during registration.

Steps in the Company Registration Process

A person filling out forms with a pen.

Establishing a corporate entity in Romania follows a precise sequence of regulatory actions.

This systematic approach ensures compliance while maintaining operational efficiency for new market entrants.

Name Reservation and Document Filing

The initial company name reservation occurs through the National Trade Register Office (ONRC) portal.

This free digital service verifies name availability against existing registrations within minutes.

Approved reservations remain valid for 30 calendar days, creating urgency for subsequent filings.

Document preparation requires alignment with ONRC specifications.

Essential materials include translated identification papers and notarized corporate agreements.

Submissions can occur physically at regional offices or digitally using qualified electronic signatures.

Processing with the Trade Register

Officials typically complete company registration reviews within three working days for the Trade Register approval.

This period allows thorough verification of statutory documents and legal compliance checks.

Delays usually stem from incomplete filings or translation discrepancies.

Successful applicants receive three critical identifiers: the Certificate of Incorporation, CUI tax code, and Certificat Constatator.

These enable immediate banking operations and contractual engagements across Romania.

Note that while Trade Register approval is fast, the complete registration process including VAT registration and full operational readiness typically takes 7-10 working days.

Navigating Tax and VAT Registration in Romania

An open laptop displaying a tax registration website with a cup of coffee nearby.

Understanding fiscal obligations marks a critical phase for enterprises establishing operations in emerging markets.

Romania’s integrated tax system combines automatic corporate registration with strategic VAT options, creating adaptable frameworks for diverse commercial needs.

Corporate and Microenterprise Tax Details

Newly registered companies receive tax IDs during incorporation, enabling immediate financial operations.

Important Update for 2025-2026:

Microenterprises benefit from preferential tax rates when maintaining at least one employee:

  • 1% tax rate on revenue up to €60,000
  • 3% tax rate on revenue from €60,000 to €250,000 (2025) or €100,000 (from January 2026)

Special activities including IT services (CAEN codes 6210, 6290), restaurants, and mobile food services are subject to the 3% rate regardless of revenue level.

Standard corporate tax applies at 16% for profits when companies exceed micro-company thresholds or don’t qualify for the regime.

The dividend withholding tax increased to 10% as of January 1, 2025 (previously 8%) for all recipients.

VAT Registration Requirements

Critical 2025 Updates:

Businesses must register for VAT when exceeding RON 395,000 annual turnover (effective September 1, 2025, increased from RON 300,000).

The standard VAT rate is 21% (increased from 19% in August 2025), with a consolidated reduced rate of 11% replacing the previous 5% and 9% rates.

Voluntary VAT registration remains available for smaller enterprises seeking input tax recovery.

Sector-specific rules apply, with businesses engaged in EU trade requiring VAT registration regardless of turnover thresholds.

FAQ

What legal structure is most common for foreign entrepreneurs in Romania?

The limited liability company (SRL) is preferred due to its flexibility and simplified compliance requirements.

Current minimum share capital varies between RON 1-200, with a new tiered proposal being implemented: RON 500 for new companies, increasing based on revenue thresholds to RON 5,000 (for revenues RON 395,000-7 million) and RON 90,000 (for revenues exceeding RON 7 million).

It allows full foreign ownership and limits liability to invested capital.

How does Romania’s tax environment benefit startups?

Romania offers a 16% corporate tax rate, one of the lowest in the EU.

Microenterprises with at least one employee pay only 1% on turnover up to €60,000 and 3% from €60,000 to €250,000 (reducing to €100,000 threshold from January 2026), making it ideal for early-stage businesses.

However, IT services and certain other sectors pay 3% regardless of revenue level.

Can a virtual office serve as proof of registered office?

Yes, foreign founders can use virtual office services compliant with Romanian law.

The address must be verifiable and included in the Articles of Association during company registration.

What are the VAT registration requirements for new businesses?

Updated for 2025: Companies must register for VAT if annual turnover exceeds RON 395,000 (effective September 1, 2025).

The standard VAT rate is 21% (increased from 19% in August 2025), with a reduced rate of 11%.

Voluntary registration is permitted, allowing input tax recovery.

Non-EU businesses require a fiscal representative for compliance.

How long does the company registration process take?

The Trade Register approval typically takes 3 business days with complete documentation.

However, the full registration process including VAT registration and complete operational setup takes 7-10 working days.

Delays often arise from incomplete documents or translation issues.

Are foreign shareholders required to visit Romania during incorporation?

No. A local lawyer can handle filings via power of attorney.

Notarized documents and apostilled/legalized identification (e.g., passports) must be submitted electronically or by courier.

What post-registration obligations apply to Romanian companies?

Firms must file annual financial statements, maintain accounting records, and submit monthly/quarterly tax declarations.

Important: As of 2025, the dividend tax is 10% (increased from 8%).

Companies must monitor the microenterprise revenue threshold, which decreases from €250,000 to €100,000 on January 1, 2026.

Hiring employees triggers additional labor law and social security compliance.

What are the current VAT rates in Romania?

Updated August 2025: The standard VAT rate is 21% (increased from 19%), and the reduced rate is 11% (consolidating the previous 5% and 9% rates).

These changes took effect August 1, 2025.

What documents are required to register a company in Romania as a foreigner?

To register a company in Romania, foreigners need to prepare and submit several necessary documents.

These include identification documents such as a valid passport, proof of address in Romania, and incorporation documents specific to the type of business structure chosen, whether it be a joint stock company or a limited liability company (SRL).

Additionally, an application for registration must be completed, and the unique company name must be verified through the trade registry.

How does the company registration process work for foreign entrepreneurs?

The company registration process for foreign entrepreneurs in Romania involves several key steps.

First, you must select a business structure and prepare the necessary documents.

Then, you will need to submit these documents to the trade registry for approval.

Following this, you will need to register your business office in Romania and meet the minimum share capital requirement.

Finally, once all documents are approved and the company is registered, you will receive a registration certificate, allowing you to start your business operations in Romania.

What are the benefits of starting a business in Romania as a foreigner?

Starting a business in Romania offers numerous benefits for foreign entrepreneurs.

Romania is situated in a strategic location within the European Union, providing access to a vast market.

The business environment is continually improving, with various incentives for foreign investment.

Additionally, the country offers a range of business structures available, allowing entrepreneurs to select the type of company that best fits their business needs.

This makes Romania an attractive destination for foreign founders looking to expand their operations in Europe.