Building a New Life in Romania
Receiving international protection in Romania is an important milestone, but integration into Romanian society is an ongoing journey that involves learning the language, finding employment, securing housing, and becoming part of the local community. This guide outlines the key resources and steps to help you get started.
The Official Integration Program
Romania operates a formal integration program for recognized refugees and beneficiaries of subsidiary protection, coordinated by the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI). Once you receive your protection status, you can enroll in this program, which typically includes:
- Romanian language courses — free classes to develop language skills for daily life and employment.
- Civic orientation — sessions on Romanian laws, institutions, culture, and values.
- Employment counseling — support in preparing a CV, job searching, and understanding the labor market.
- Social assistance referrals — connecting you to welfare benefits you may be entitled to.
Participation in the program is encouraged and can facilitate access to certain financial support measures.
Learning Romanian
Romanian is the key that opens doors to employment, social life, and independence. Even a basic level of Romanian significantly improves day-to-day experiences. Options for learning include:
- State-run language courses offered through the IGI integration program.
- NGO language classes — many NGOs offer Romanian language courses specifically for refugees and asylum seekers.
- Community centers and libraries — some local institutions offer free or low-cost language support.
- Online resources — platforms such as Duolingo offer introductory Romanian, while YouTube channels dedicated to Romanian for beginners can supplement formal study.
Finding Employment
Once you have the legal right to work (either after three months as an asylum seeker or immediately upon receiving protection status), you can pursue employment. Useful steps include:
- Register with the local National Agency for Employment (ANOFM) office, which can connect you to job listings, training programs, and subsidized employment schemes.
- Get your foreign qualifications and diplomas assessed for equivalency in Romania through the National Center for Recognition and Equivalence of Diplomas (CNRED).
- Explore vocational training programs offered by NGOs, which often target sectors with high demand such as construction, food service, and manufacturing.
- Network within your community — many jobs are found through personal connections.
Housing After the Reception Center
Long-term housing is one of the biggest challenges refugees face. Options include:
- Private rental market — renting an apartment independently. NGOs may help with deposit payments or negotiate with landlords in some cases.
- Transitional housing programs — some NGOs manage temporary supported housing for newly recognized refugees.
- Social housing — you may apply for social housing through the local municipality, though waiting lists can be long.
When signing any rental contract, ask an NGO or legal aid provider to review it first if you are unsure of the terms.
Education for Children and Adults
Children have the right to attend Romanian public schools from kindergarten through the end of compulsory education. Schools are required to accept children regardless of documentation status. Preparatory Romanian language classes are often available for non-Romanian-speaking children.
Adults wishing to continue formal education can explore evening schools, vocational colleges, and university options — contact the Ministry of Education or local school inspectorates for information on equivalency and enrollment requirements.
Cultural Life and Community
Romania has a growing and diverse refugee community, particularly in Bucharest and larger cities. Getting involved in community events, cultural centers, and voluntary activities can ease the social transition and help you build a network. Many cities have multicultural festivals, community gardens, and volunteer programs that welcome participation.
Key NGOs for Integration Support
- CNRR (Romanian National Council for Refugees) — integration assistance and employment support.
- JRS Romania — social and community integration programs.
- Diakonia Romania — vocational training and social services.