D/AC — Long-Stay Commercial Activities / Investor Visa (Viză D/AC - Activități comerciale)

The Romanian Long-Stay Commercial Activities Visa (D/AC) was established to serve as a cornerstone of the nation’s economic development strategy, specifically designed to attract foreign direct investment and stimulate domestic job creation. Rooted in the broader framework of Romanian immigration law—specifically the Government Emergency Ordinance No. 194/2002 regarding the regime of foreigners in Romania—this visa was created to bridge the gap between simple business tourism and permanent residency for high-impact entrepreneurs. Unlike standard short-stay business visas that restrict applicants to temporary meetings or negotiations, the D/AC visa provides a formal, long-term legal pathway for foreign nationals who intend to integrate themselves into the Romanian economy as active stakeholders. By mandating a significant capital injection and a tangible commitment to the local labor market, the Romanian government utilizes this visa to incentivize the infusion of foreign capital into sectors that require modernization, thereby fostering a more robust and competitive national business ecosystem.

The ideal applicant for the D/AC visa is a serious investor or entrepreneur who possesses both the financial capacity and the operational intent to manage a Romanian commercial entity. To qualify, the applicant must demonstrate a capital investment of at least €100,000 in a Romanian company, or alternatively, the creation of at least 15 new jobs, while holding a position as a shareholder with management or administrative powers. This visa is particularly well-suited for professionals in sectors such as technology, manufacturing, logistics, and specialized services, where the applicant’s active involvement is essential to the company’s growth. What makes this visa distinctive compared to other work or business permits is its focus on the applicant’s role as a principal rather than an employee; it grants the holder the autonomy to oversee their own business interests while providing a clear, structured route toward long-term residency. While the visa requires a non-refundable €120 fee and proof of comprehensive health insurance, its primary limitation lies in the rigorous scrutiny of the business plan and the ongoing obligation to maintain the specified investment and employment thresholds. Ultimately, the D/AC visa is a prestigious instrument for those seeking to establish a permanent, high-level professional footprint in the European Union, offering a unique blend of entrepreneurial freedom and legal security for the committed investor.