How does Family Reunification work in Romania, and who qualifies?

Romania's family reunification route allows non-EU family members of a qualifying sponsor to join them. The sponsor can be a resident third-country national, an EU Blue Card or ICT holder, a refugee, or a Romanian citizen. Eligible family typically means a spouse, minor children and, in certain cases, dependent adult children or dependent ascendants.

The process begins with IGI issuing an endorsement (aviz). The sponsor generally needs qualifying residence — usually a permit valid for at least one year, long-term residence, or Romanian citizenship — plus proof of adequate accommodation suitable for the family and financial means above the sponsor's own needs for each family member. You will also need marriage and birth certificates and proof of relationship, translated and legalised. After the endorsement, the family member applies for the D/VF visa and then a residence permit from IGI. The IGI endorsement decision can take up to three months.

Because the endorsement comes first and the accommodation and income evidence is important, planning the timing helps. ACME can help you check the sponsor conditions and prepare the documentation, and we always suggest confirming the current rules on igi.mai.gov.ro before applying.