Understanding Your Rights in Romania

Whether you have just registered your asylum claim or have already received a form of protection, knowing your rights is essential. Romania's asylum legislation is aligned with EU law, including the EU Asylum Procedures Directive and the Reception Conditions Directive, as well as the 1951 Refugee Convention.

Rights During the Asylum Procedure

From the moment you register your asylum application, you are entitled to the following rights:

  • The right to remain in Romania while your case is being processed — you cannot be deported before a final decision.
  • The right to an interpreter during all official interviews and procedures, free of charge.
  • The right to be informed about the asylum procedure in a language you understand.
  • The right to legal assistance, including free legal aid if you cannot afford a lawyer.
  • The right to access reception conditions — housing, food, and basic material support.
  • The right to emergency healthcare and necessary medical treatment.
  • The right to education for minor children in Romanian public schools.

Right to Work

Asylum seekers in Romania gain the right to work after three months from the date of registration of their asylum application, provided their case has not been decided within that period. Once the right to work is granted, you may take legal employment under the same conditions as Romanian citizens, except for certain restricted public-sector roles.

Rights After Receiving Refugee Status

If you are granted refugee status, your rights expand significantly:

  • The right to a refugee travel document (similar to a passport for travel).
  • Full access to the Romanian labor market.
  • Access to the same social security and welfare benefits as Romanian citizens.
  • The right to family reunification — you can apply to bring close family members to Romania.
  • Access to integration programs, including language courses and housing support.

Rights Under Subsidiary Protection

Those granted subsidiary protection receive many of the same rights as refugees, though there are some differences, particularly regarding travel documents and the duration of the initial residence permit. Your protection status is reviewed periodically.

Right to Non-Refoulement

This is one of the most fundamental principles in international refugee law. Romania is legally prohibited from returning you to a country where you face a real risk of:

  • Persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or social group membership.
  • Torture or inhuman treatment.
  • Death penalty or execution.

This protection applies even if your asylum application is rejected, as long as you have a pending appeal.

Protection from Discrimination

Romanian law and EU regulations prohibit discrimination based on nationality, ethnicity, religion, or other protected characteristics. If you experience discrimination — in housing, employment, healthcare, or access to services — you have the right to report it to the National Council for Combating Discrimination (CNCD).

Special Protections for Vulnerable Groups

Romanian law requires additional consideration for vulnerable individuals, including:

  • Unaccompanied minors (children without a parent or guardian).
  • Victims of trafficking or torture.
  • Pregnant women and new mothers.
  • Persons with serious physical or mental health conditions.
  • LGBTQ+ individuals facing persecution.

If you belong to a vulnerable group, make this known to your caseworker as early as possible, as it may affect how your case is handled and what additional support you are entitled to.

Where to Report Rights Violations

If you believe your rights have been violated, you can seek help from UNHCR Romania, the Romanian Ombudsman (Avocatul Poporului), or local NGOs providing legal aid. Document incidents whenever possible and keep records of all official communications.