BUCHAREST: After expecting an increase in the quota for foreign workers to 140,000, the Romanian government has backtracked, approving a quota of 100,000 foreign workers for 2024, the same as the previous year. This decision has raised concerns, especially considering the existing labor shortage in the country.
The National Agency for Employment’s website indicates approximately 38,000 available jobs, with 15% requiring higher education qualifications. However, the unprecedented surge in Romanians leaving the country in the past year has resulted in a massive labor deficit for the Romanian economy.
“In theory, the approved quota for 2024 may seem sufficient, but in practice, it falls short. In 2023 alone, 50,000 Romanians left the country, marking the highest number in the last 30 years,” noted Oana Călin, a member of the Labor Importers’ Board of Trustees.
The Employers’ Association of Labor Importers highlights challenges in obtaining work visas, with a rejection rate of about 3:1 in embassies, often due to administrative issues. The extended processing time for visas further exacerbates the labor deficit.
To address these issues, proposed solutions include enforcing language proficiency requirements, such as English proficiency at least at the A2 level, for candidates during the selection process. Additionally, agencies in both Romania and the country of origin are urged to enhance preparation, conduct training sessions, and ensure foreign workers are well-informed about wage offers from the outset.
