Working in Romania – 5 Legal Rights

Working in Romania comes with a set of legal rights and protections that ensure fair treatment and safeguard the interests of employees. These rights are enshrined in Romanian labor law and serve as the foundation for a harmonious work environment. In this article, we will explore five essential legal rights that every employee should be aware of when working in Romania.

Minimum Wage

One of the fundamental rights for employees in Romania is the right to receive a minimum wage. The Romanian government determines the minimum wage annually, taking into account factors such as the cost of living and economic conditions. This ensures that employees receive a fair and decent wage, providing them with a basic standard of living. As of the first quarter of 2023, the minimum wage in Romania has increased to 3.000 LEI (around 600 euro) per month. This marks a rise from the previous minimum wage of 2.500 LEI per month, which was effective in the third quarter of 2022.

Maximum Working Hours

To maintain a healthy work-life balance, employees in Romania have the right to a maximum number of working hours per week. The standard working week for full-time employees is 40 hours. Any additional hours worked beyond this threshold are considered overtime and should be compensated accordingly. These regulations help prevent excessive work hours and protect employees' well-being.

Paid Leave

Taking time off is crucial for rest, rejuvenation, and personal commitments. In Romania, employees are entitled to paid leave, including annual leave and public holidays. The minimum annual leave entitlement is 20 working days, providing ample opportunity for employees to relax and spend time with their families. Under Romania's Labor Code, certain categories of employees are entitled to three additional days of annual leave. This includes employees working in dangerous or hazardous conditions, persons with disabilities, and young workers under 18 years old. The provision aims to acknowledge the unique circumstances and challenges faced by these individuals and provide them with extra time off for rest, recovery, and personal needs. It reflects the commitment to inclusivity, protection, and ensuring a healthy work-life balance for these specific groups of employees. Additionally, public holidays are also recognized as paid days off, allowing employees to celebrate and enjoy important occasions.

Sick Leave and Healthcare

Illness or accidents can happen unexpectedly, and employees in Romania have the right to take sick leave when necessary. During this time, employees are entitled to receive a percentage of their regular salary as sickness benefits.

In Romania, there are specific regulations regarding the duration of medical leave for insured individuals who experience temporary incapacity for work. According to the law, the cumulative duration of medical leave provided by the family doctor cannot exceed 28 calendar days in the last year. The counting of these days starts from the first day of illness, regardless of its cause. Once the 28-day limit set by the family doctor is reached, further issuance of medical leave certificates can only be done by the attending physician at a specialized outpatient clinic or hospital, particularly in the case of hospitalization. The maximum durations for such medical leave certificates, as provided by law, are 90 days per year.

Employment Contracts and Termination Rights

Employees have the right to sign a written employment contract that clearly outlines the terms and conditions of their employment. This contract serves as a legal agreement between the employer and the employee, specifying rights, duties, and remuneration. Additionally, Romanian labor law provides protection against unjustified dismissal. Employers are required to provide a valid reason for termination and follow proper procedures to ensure fair treatment when terminating an employee's contract.

It's important to note that these are just a few examples of the legal rights granted to employees in Romania. Employment rights can vary depending on the specific industry, employment contract, and other factors. If you have specific concerns or questions regarding your rights as an employee in Romania, it's advisable to consult with a lawyer specialized in labor law. Therefore, you can schedule a consulting session by clicking here.