Romania sees positive migration balance with over 102,000 new residents in 2022

In 2022, Romania recorded a significant positive migration balance of 102,249 individuals, showcasing the country as an attractive destination for those seeking new opportunities. This balance reflects the ongoing shift in population dynamics, where the number of long-term immigrants exceeded the number of emigrants.

Romania welcomed 307,592 long-term temporary immigrants in 2022, which includes both Romanian citizens returning home and foreign nationals. Notably, 64.5% of these immigrants were Romanians, while 35.5% were foreign citizens. The country has also seen an increase in the approval of larger contingents of non-EU immigrants in recent years, a move aimed at addressing labor shortages in various sectors.

The outflow of emigrants is also noteworthy, with 205,343 individuals leaving Romania in 2022. Most of these emigrants were Romanians, seeking opportunities abroad. However, the influx of new residents has helped counterbalance this trend, indicating a shift in Romania's migratory landscape.

By the end of 2024, Romania had over 140,640 employees from outside the European Union, with significant numbers in industries such as production, construction, and hospitality. In fact, more than 60% of work permits issued in 2024 were for occupations like agricultural workers, construction, cleaning, and cargo handling.

As the demand for foreign labor grows, the number of citizens from third countries holding work permits in Romania has surged, rising from around 52,000 in 2022 to over 100,000 by the end of 2024. The primary countries of origin for these immigrants include Nepal, Sri Lanka, Turkey, and India, highlighting Romania's expanding role in the global labor market.

With the annual cap for imported workers increasing from 22,000 in 2018 to 100,000 in 2022, Romania's immigration strategy appears to be effectively addressing labor shortages while simultaneously enriching the country's cultural diversity. As the country moves forward, it continues to attract individuals seeking to contribute to its economy and society.