Do You Need a Lawyer to Start and Run a Business in Romania? (Complete 2026 Guide for Entrepreneurs)

Starting a business in Romania is one of the fastest and most affordable in the EU—but that doesn’t mean it’s risk-free. Many entrepreneurs underestimate legal complexity, only to face costly issues later.

This guide explains when you need a lawyer, when you don’t, and how to make the smartest decision for your business.

Do You Need a Lawyer to Start a Business in Romania?

No, you do not legally need a lawyer to start a business in Romania. However, hiring one helps prevent legal mistakes, ensures compliance, and protects long-term business growth.

Romania has simplified company registration through the ONRC (National Trade Register Office), allowing entrepreneurs to register businesses quickly—often within a few days.

• You can submit documents yourself;
• You can use standard templates;
• You are not required to hire legal representation.

However, this simplicity applies only to registration—not to running a compliant and scalable business.

What Is Required to Start a Business in Romania?

To start a business in Romania, you must register with ONRC, choose a legal structure, set up accounting, and comply with Romanian and EU regulations.

The most common structure is an SRL (limited liability company), preferred for its flexibility and low startup costs.

• Register company with ONRC (full guide)
• Choose company structure (SRL)
• Open business bank account
• Hire accountant
• Ensure compliance with GDPR regulations
• Follow Romanian business law and contract law

While these steps are straightforward, mistakes in any of them can lead to long-term consequences.

Why Do Entrepreneurs Hire a Business Lawyer in Romania?

Entrepreneurs hire business lawyers to avoid costly mistakes, structure their company correctly, and ensure legal protection from the start.

Most successful founders don’t wait for problems—they prevent them.

• Correct legal structure from day one
• Strong, enforceable contracts
• Compliance with Romanian and EU law
• Protection against disputes

Legal mistakes made early often become expensive problems later.

What Are the Risks of Starting Without a Lawyer?

Without legal guidance, businesses face risks such as incorrect structure, weak contracts, compliance violations, and disputes.

1. Incorrect Company Structure

The wrong structure can affect taxes, liability, and investment potential.

2. Weak Contracts

Generic templates often fail to protect your business. Learn more about contract drafting in Romania.

3. Compliance Issues

Ignoring GDPR or labor law can result in fines and penalties.

4. Business Disputes

Poor agreements lead to shareholder conflicts and legal disputes.

When Can You Start a Business Without a Lawyer?

You can start without a lawyer if your business is simple, low-risk, and has a single founder.

• Solo SRL
• Freelancing
• No employees
• Low-risk activity

Many entrepreneurs begin this way and add legal support later.

When Should You Hire a Business Lawyer in Romania?

You should hire a lawyer when your business involves partners, employees, contracts, or legal complexity.

• Multiple shareholders
• Foreign investors
• Hiring employees
• Complex contracts
• Regulated industries

Explore our corporate legal services for full support.

What Does a Business Lawyer Do?

A business lawyer structures your company, drafts contracts, ensures compliance, and prevents legal issues.

• Company formation
• Contract drafting
• Legal compliance
• Dispute resolution

They act as a strategic partner—not just a problem solver.

How Much Does a Business Lawyer Cost in Romania?

Costs typically range from €50–€150 per consultation and €200–€800 for company setup.

• Consultation: €70–€250
• Setup: €200–€800
• Contracts: €100–€500
• Ongoing: €50–€200/hour

Many businesses use legal subscriptions to reduce costs.

Is It Better to Start With or Without a Lawyer?

Starting with a lawyer reduces risk and builds a strong foundation, while starting without one saves money but increases long-term risk.

• Without lawyer → cheaper, riskier
• With lawyer → safer, scalable

Lawyer vs Accountant: What’s the Difference?

A lawyer handles legal matters, while an accountant manages taxes and financial reporting.

• Lawyer → contracts, compliance
• Accountant → taxes, bookkeeping

Business Startup Checklist in Romania

To start a business legally, follow these steps: register, structure, comply, and protect your company.

1. Choose SRL structure
2. Register with ONRC (guide)
3. Draft agreements (contracts)
4. Hire accountant
5. Ensure GDPR compliance
6. Prepare contracts

Common Legal Mistakes Entrepreneurs Make

Most business owners repeat the same legal mistakes, which can be avoided with proper planning.

• Using generic contracts
• Ignoring GDPR
• No shareholder agreements
• Mixing personal and business finances
• Delaying legal advice

The Bottom Line

You can start a business in Romania without a lawyer, but hiring one significantly reduces risk and supports long-term success.

If your business is simple, you can start alone. If it involves growth, investment, or complexity, legal guidance is essential.

How to Start a Limited Liability Company (SRL) in Romania – Updated for 2025

Understanding SRL Formation in Romania

Successfully navigating the SRL registration process in Romania demands a clear understanding of both local and EU regulations. As an expert legal services provider, we can assist you in understanding the full scope of requirements and procedures. Our goal is to provide the best legal solutions, ensuring effective strategies for company formation in Romania. Learn more about our corporate law services.

What is an SRL?

An SRL (Societate cu Răspundere Limitată), or Limited Liability Company, is a business structure where the liability of shareholders is limited to their capital contribution. This structure is one of the most popular and practical routes for entrepreneurs in Romania, offering both flexibility and legal protection.

The Landscape of Business Formation in Romania

Romania’s economic landscape presents significant opportunities for business formation. Understanding the current trends, regulations, and requirements is crucial for both domestic and international entrepreneurs. The legal framework has been refined for 2025, with greater clarity around capital requirements, registration steps, and foreign investor issues.

Types of Business Structures: SRL vs. SA vs. PFA

In Romania, businesses can be structured in several ways:

• SRL (Limited Liability Company), which is flexible and suitable for most startups and SMEs.
• SA (Joint-Stock Company), typically required for large enterprises with minimum capital requirements.
• PFA (Sole Proprietorship), suited for very small operations but without separate legal entity protection.

The type of business structure influences the registration process and available options, requiring tailored strategies.

Legal Framework for SRL Formation

Key Legislation Governing SRL Registration

The SRL formation process in Romania is governed by a comprehensive set of laws and regulations designed to protect both creditors and shareholders. Key legislation includes the Civil Procedure Code and regulations from the National Register of Commerce (ONRC). Understanding these laws is essential for effective company formation in Romania. For detailed information on procedures, refer to the European e-Justice Portal.

Role of Corporate Law Specialists

A corporate law specialist plays a crucial role in navigating the complexities of SRL formation in Romania.

These legal professionals provide expert guidance on registration procedures, handle ONRC submissions, and develop tailored strategies for company formation. At Atrium Romanian Law Office, experienced lawyers understand the nuances of Romanian law. This ensures that all procedures are both effective and compliant with current regulations, maximizing the chances of successful SRL establishment.

Understanding Capital Requirements

For 2025, the minimum share capital requirement has been effectively abolished for SRLs. Founders can declare any amount they deem appropriate. However, proposed legislative reforms may reintroduce minimum capital thresholds (around 8,000 RON) for new incorporations from January 2026 onwards. Understanding these requirements is crucial for proper company structuring.

Step-by-Step Process to Form an SRL in Romania

The SRL formation process in Romania involves several key phases designed to maximize your chances of successful registration. Whether through streamlined online procedures or in-person submissions, understanding each phase is critical.

Phase 1: Preliminary Planning & Name Reservation

The first step in SRL formation is careful planning and name reservation. This involves:

• Choosing the SRL form and ensuring it fits your business model
• Proposing 2–3 name options and checking availability via ONRC portal
• Reserving the name with the trade-registry
• Selecting your registered office address and gathering proof
• Determining business activities (CAEN codes) carefully

Phase 2: Drafting Documents & File Preparation

Once planning is complete, prepare all necessary documentation:

• Prepare Articles of Association outlining company details
• For foreign shareholders: prepare apostilled copies and Romanian translations
• Open a temporary bank account for capital deposit
• Ensure all documentation is signed, notarized and in correct format

Phase 3: Submission to Trade Registry (ONRC)

Submit your file to ONRC through the following steps:

• Submit file to ONRC (in person or via online portal)
• Pay the state registration fee (approximately €50)
• ONRC reviews file; certificate typically issued within 3 working days
• Company is legally established; commence business activities (subject to licenses)

Phase 4: Post-Registration Formalities

After registration, complete these essential formalities:

• Deposit declared capital in bank
• Register for tax purposes with ANAF
• Submit VAT registration if turnover exceeds threshold (EUR 88,500)
• Open regular business bank account
• Apply for sector-specific licenses/permits if required

Phase 5: Begin Operation & Compliance

Ensure ongoing compliance with:

• Register for accounting and payroll services
• File annual financial statements with ONRC
• Ensure ongoing compliance with statutory deadlines
• Report any changes in capital, address, administrators or business activity

Timeline & Cost Expectations (2025)

Typical Timeline: 5-10 working days for complete SRL setup

Typical Costs: €300-€800 (varies depending on legal fees, translations, notarization, and sector-specific requirements)

Actual costs vary widely depending on legal advisor fees, translation/notary costs for foreign shareholders, virtual office fees, bank requirements, and regulatory licenses needed.

Advantages of an SRL Structure in Romania

• Limited Liability Protection – Your personal liability is limited to your contribution
• Flexibility & Simplicity – Simpler to administer than joint-stock companies
• Wide Applicability – Suited for startups, SMEs and cross-border businesses
• Foreign Investor Friendly – Accommodates non-resident shareholders and administrators
• Access to EU Single Market – With relatively favorable conditions

Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them

Protect your SRL formation by avoiding these common mistakes:

• Incomplete documents — Legal professionals catch naming errors, missing signatures and incorrect forms
• Foreign-investor documentation — Apostille, translation, notarization requirements vary; each adds time
• Bank account delays — Budget extra time or use law-firm assisted account opening
• Incorrect name or CAEN code — Similar names or restricted words trigger extra checks
• Underestimating permits — Sectors like food, pharma, finance need regulatory checks before operation
• Ignoring reform changes — Future-proof your structure against 2025/2026 minimum capital reforms

Related Company Formation Resources

To further support your journey in establishing and managing your business in Romania, we’ve compiled a comprehensive cluster of related guides and resources:

• Company Formation in Romania — A comprehensive overview of all business structures available in Romania
• How to Set Up a Limited Liability Company in Romania — Detailed step-by-step guide for SRL establishment
• Remote Company Formation in Romania – Digital Process 2025 — Learn about online and remote registration options
• Romanian Company Capital Increase – Streamlined Processes 2025 — Guide to increasing your company’s share capital
• Navigating Romanian Company Board Meetings – Key Insights — Essential governance and compliance information
• Corporate Restructuring Options Under Romanian Law — Explore mergers, divisions, and transformations
• Crypto License Romania 2025 – Company Formation for Digital Assets — Specialized guide for crypto and blockchain businesses
• Closing a Company in Romania – A Complete Overview — Understanding dissolution and closure procedures