Romania. Why is Romania Changing its Citizenship Rules?

Romania’s government aims to tighten its naturalization process to ensure that only well-integrated and committed individuals obtain citizenship. This shift reflects broader European trends, where countries are making citizenship laws more restrictive to prevent misuse and maintain national security.

Key Changes in Romania’s Citizenship Law

1. End of Automatic Citizenship for Stateless or Foreign Individuals

   • Previously, certain groups could acquire citizenship automatically under specific circumstances. The new law eliminates these provisions, requiring a formal application process.

2. Stricter Residency Requirements

   • The new rules require eight years of legal residence before an individual can apply for citizenship.
   • This period is shortened to five years for those married to a Romanian citizen.
   • Compared to some EU countries, these timelines are still moderate, but they signal a shift towards more controlled naturalization.

3. Language and Civic Knowledge Criteria

   • Applicants must prove proficiency in Romanian language and demonstrate knowledge of the country’s history, culture, and legal system.
   • This aligns with EU norms, ensuring that new citizens can integrate effectively into society.

4. New Biometric Citizenship Card

   • Romania will replace traditional paper citizenship certificates with biometric identity cards.
   • These cards will contain personal and biometric data, reducing the risk of forgery and fraud.

5. Full Digitalization of the Application Process

   • Moving citizenship applications online will streamline processing times and reduce bureaucratic inefficiencies.
   • Applicants will be able to track their case status through a dedicated online portal.

6. Fast-Track Citizenship for Exceptional Individuals

   • Romania recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the country—whether in science, culture, sports, or humanitarian efforts—by offering them a faster naturalization process.

Implications of These Reforms

• For Immigrants and Long-Term Residents:

  • The stricter residency requirements mean longer waiting times for citizenship, making it essential for immigrants to plan their stay carefully.
  • The language proficiency requirement reinforces the expectation that new citizens will fully integrate into Romanian society.

• For Stateless and Vulnerable Groups:

  • The removal of automatic citizenship may create challenges for stateless individuals who previously relied on these provisions for legal status.

• For Romania’s Global Standing:

  • The introduction of biometric cards and digital processes places Romania at the forefront of secure and modernized immigration systems in Europe.

Conclusion

Romania’s new citizenship laws demonstrate a strategic balance between stricter eligibility criteria and enhanced efficiency through digitalization. While the higher bar for naturalization may slow down some applicants, the faster processing and increased security will ultimately benefit both the state and future citizens.

For those considering Romanian citizenship, these changes highlight the importance of long-term commitment and integration as key factors in the application process.

#Romania #Immigration #CitizenshipLaw

Sources:
schengen.news