Timisoara attracts investors from Germany, Italy and the United States. A guide to incorporating here, the rules that apply to foreign nationals, what can be handled by power of attorney without travelling, and the alternatives to renting an office.
At a glance
Who can incorporate: any individual or company, regardless of nationality or residence
Travelling to Romania: not required, the process can run under a power of attorney
Registered office: mandatory, but it can be provided through a professional address arrangement
Worth noting: incorporating a company does not by itself grant a right of residence
Who can set up a Romanian company
Romanian companies carry no restrictions based on nationality or residence. A non-EU national can be a shareholder and director of a Timisoara company on the same terms as a Romanian citizen.
The important distinction is on the immigration side. Being a shareholder is not a right of residence; that is obtained separately, through a permit for commercial activities, with its own investment and activity conditions.
The incorporation process
The steps are the same as in Bucharest or any other large city: reserving the company name, drafting the articles of association, proving the registered office, the founders' and directors' declarations, and registration with the Trade Register.
For foreign founders, translated and, where required, apostilled identity documents are added, together with the declarations required by law.
What can be done without coming to Romania
The whole process can run under a special power of attorney notarised locally or at a Romanian diplomatic mission. Signing, filing and collecting the documents are handled by your representative.
If you have no premises of your own, the registered office can be established at a professional address provided under contract, a common solution at the outset.
Why Timisoara
The city is one of Romania's largest economic centres and an established IT hub with an active tech community. Its status as European Capital of Culture in 2023 accelerated its international visibility.
For companies already operating in Romania, the alternative to a new entity is opening a working point or a branch, which is administratively simpler.
Frequently asked questions
How long does incorporation in Timisoara take?
Usually a few working days from filing a complete file with the Trade Register. Preparing documents for foreign founders, translations and apostilles, adds time beforehand.
Do I have to come to Romania in person?
No. Under a special power of attorney, your lawyer signs and files on your behalf.
What share capital does a Romanian limited company need?
The law no longer imposes a significant minimum, but the capital should match the activity. The structure is set according to the project.
Do I need to rent an office?
A registered office must be evidenced. It can be your own space, a leased one, or a professional address provided under contract.
Does incorporating give me a right of residence in Romania?
No. Residence is obtained through the relevant immigration procedure, with its investment and activity conditions. Citizens of the USA, Canada, Japan and Switzerland benefit from a more favourable regime.
Can I open just a working point instead of a new company?
Yes, if you already have a Romanian company. It is the simplest route for expanding into the city.
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