Possible New Directions for Non-EU Labor Legislation and the Impact…

1. Possible New Directions for Non-EU Labor Legislation and the Impact on Romanian Employers On October 26, 2025, GlobalWorker participated in an event dedicated to the access to work for foreign citizens in Romania, organized by IOM Romania (International Organization for Migration) and West University of Timișoara. This was a necessary dialogue at a time when Romania is preparing for the biggest legislative changes in the last decade regarding the recruitment and integration of non-EU workers. GlobalWorker was there—as an active participant, as the voice of the private sector, and as an actor with practical market experience.

2. Why Was the Timișoara Event Important? Because the entire legal architecture concerning the non-EU workforce is changing. The institutions present (IOM, UVT, Ministry of Labor, Timiș Prefecture, IGI, ADR Vest, AJOFM Timiș) conveyed the same message: Romania urgently needs modern, predictable, and clarified legislation, adapted to the current reality of the labor market. GlobalWorker welcomes this openness and actively contributes to these reforms. What Changes Is the Romanian Government Preparing in the Sector? 1. The Current Law Is Changing – A New Legislative Chapter Begins A new draft law regarding the employment of non-EU citizens is being developed and will be finalized in the coming days. The estimated entry into force is: January 1, 2026 Goal: Stricter, clearer, and more efficient regulations for: The employment of non-EU workers The responsibility of intermediary firms The protection of workers and employers ● ● ● 2. Why Is a Total Reform Needed? Because the current system no longer works: Romania approves 100,000 positions annually, but only 75,000– 90,000 visas are actually issued. Less than half of the permits are used correctly. Some workers leave Romania for other EU countries after obtaining the Romanian permit. Some intermediary firms fail to comply with their obligations. Major loopholes have been identified, and the new law aims to close them. ● ● ● ● 3. What Will the New Law Bring? Much stricter rules for intermediary firms, including suspension of licenses, heavy fines, and the possibility of revoking operating rights. Introduction of financial guarantees to cover potential costs generated by the repatriation of workers from Romania. Prevention of migration to other EU states. Workers entering with a Romanian permit will no longer be able to leave Romania without clear procedures. Faster visa and permit deadlines through the streamlining of ● ● ● ●

3. ● institutional processes. Digitalization and traceability. No more lost files, no more parallel procedures. ● GlobalWorker's Position: We Strongly Support the Modernization of Legislation At GlobalWorker, we believe this reform is essential for: Protecting serious employers Filtering out agencies that violate the law The safety of non-EU workers The stability of economic projects in Romania The changes do not scare us—on the contrary: we welcome them, we support them, and we participate in their construction. ● ● ● ● The Impact on Romanian Employers in 2026 The new regulations will directly influence: Recruitment costs – which will increase. No fees charged to workers → costs shift to employers + financial guarantees. Bringing times – which will be clarified and digitized. Estimates will become more realistic and predictable. Agency selection – which will become stricter. Only solid firms with real capacity will remain in the market. Worker protection – which will be prioritized. More traceability, more responsibilities for the employer. GlobalWorker is already prepared for all these changes. Full article în Romanian language here: https://globalworker.ro/modificarile- legislatiei-privind-forta-de-munca-non-ue/ ● ● ● ● Frequently Asked Questions about the New Legislative Changes Will costs for employers increase? Yes, with the elimination of worker fees and the introduction of financial guarantees. Costs will be transparent and standardized. Will procedures take longer? No. The objective of the new law is to shorten deadlines and promote digitalization. Will small agencies still be able to operate? Only if they meet the new strict requirements. The market will naturally consolidate. Will workers still be able to travel to Schengen countries? Not without clear procedures. The new system will block unregulated migration. What will happen to the annual quota? It will remain high (80,000– 90,000) but will be used more efficiently. Romania is entering a new stage in modernizing its current legislation. The 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

4. labor market is undergoing its most significant transformation in recent years. Therefore, there is a need for: Professionalism Responsibility Transparency Real partners, not improvisations ● ● ● ● GlobalWorker remains on the front line—as a solution provider, as a strategic partner, and as a responsible actor in the national dialogue on economic migration. Do you want to discuss the new regulations and their impact on your company? We are ready to help you. GlobalWorker – Fair. Legal. Ethical Recruitment. For Everyone. Email: office@globalworker.ro Phone: 0730 034 044 Website: https://globalworker.ro/