Romania Tightens Citizenship Rules with New Digital and Biometric Measures

Romania has introduced significant changes to its citizenship laws, aiming to enhance security while streamlining the application process. The new regulations, signed by interim President Ilie Bolojan, introduce digital applications, biometric data collection, and stricter eligibility criteria.

Key Changes in Romania’s Citizenship Law

The revised Romanian citizenship rules eliminate automatic eligibility for stateless individuals and foreign nationals. Citizenship can now only be acquired through:

• Birth
• Adoption
• Application

Understanding the Eligibility Criteria

While the process is now more digitally accessible, the eligibility criteria remain rigorous. Applicants can obtain citizenship through birth, adoption, or application. Critically, automatic citizenship for stateless persons or foreign citizens is no longer granted.

• Legal Residence Requirements: Applicants must demonstrate legal residency in Romania for at least eight years or five years if married to a Romanian citizen.
• Language Proficiency & Loyalty: Proficiency in the Romanian language, loyalty to the Romanian state, and impeccable behavior are mandatory.
• Accelerated Pathways: Individuals who actively contribute to Romanian society or demonstrate significant achievements may benefit from reduced residency requirements.

Authorities have also introduced certain exemptions, offering a reduced residency period for individuals who actively contribute to Romanian society or achieve significant accomplishments.

Digitalization and Biometric Integration

The most significant alteration is the complete digitalization of the application process. Aspiring citizens can now apply online, track their application status, and manage their documents through a dedicated platform.

Online Application Portal: Say goodbye to cumbersome paper applications. The new system allows for seamless online submissions and real-time tracking.

Biometric Citizenship Card: A new citizenship card with biometric data will be issued, replacing the traditional printed certificate. This enhances security and aligns with international standards.

Enhanced Security Measures: The introduction of biometric data, effective from September 1, 2024, and advanced IT security systems bolster the integrity of the citizenship process.

This digital transformation promises increased transparency and efficiency, reducing processing times and paperwork.

Compliance with EU and US Visa Waiver

The Romanian government emphasizes that these changes align with the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and accelerate the country’s inclusion in the US Visa Waiver Program.

• GDPR Compliance: The introduction of biometric data and enhanced security measures ensures adherence to EU privacy standards.
• Visa Waiver Program Aspirations: Streamlining the citizenship process and enhancing security are crucial steps towards visa-free travel to the United States.

What This Means for Travellers and Prospective Citizens

For those considering Romanian citizenship, these changes represent a blend of increased accessibility and heightened security. The digital platform simplifies the application process, while the biometric card and stringent criteria ensure the integrity of the system.

Travellers and expatriates looking to acquire Romanian citizenship should prepare for these updated requirements as they come into force.