Buying a Property in Romania. Your 2025 Roadmap.

Romania offers diverse opportunities- from city apartments to mountain retreats, but the process differs depending on who you are.

EU/EEA citizens enjoy the same rights as locals: they can buy both land and buildings. Non-EU citizens can freely purchase buildings, but land requires either setting up a Romanian company (SRL) or falling under a rare reciprocity agreement. Companies registered in Romania, regardless of shareholder nationality, can own any property type.

The safest way to start is by choosing the right structure: buying personally for a one-off deal, or via an SRL for flexibility, tax benefits, and eligibility for land ownership.

Before signing, legal due diligence is critical: check the Land Book, zoning (PUZ/CU), ownership history, permits, and any debts or litigation. Add a technical inspection for structure, utilities, and hidden defects. Independent valuations help ensure you’re paying the right price.

The process typically follows five steps: negotiation, pre-sale contract at a notary (5–30% deposit), due diligence, final sale contract, and registration at the Land Book. Expect 4–12 weeks for completion.

Costs include notary fees (0.5–1%), transfer tax (1–3%), agent commission (3–6%), and lawyer fees (1–3%). New builds may incur 21% VAT, or 9% under certain conditions.

After purchase, register for tax, pay annual property taxes, declare rental income if applicable, and follow compliance for profit repatriation.

The keys to a safe investment: work with a local lawyer, never skip inspections, secure protective clauses, and budget a 5–10% contingency. Romania rewards prepared, informed investors.

Reference framework: Global Property Guide- Romania + Romanian legal/tax norms 2025:
https://www.globalpropertyguide.com/europe/romania/buying-guide
https://ceelegalmatters.com/real-estate-2025/real-estate-romania-2025