The Romanian government has decided to reduce the number of foreign workers to 90,000 in 2026, down from 100,000 in 2025, in order to prioritize the employment of Romanian citizens, in the context of restructuring in the budgetary sector.

The Romanian government has adopted a decision to reduce, for the year 2026, the maximum number of foreign workers that can be employed in the country, establishing a quota of 90,000 work permits for citizens from outside the European Union. This measure, discussed within the National Tripartite Council for Social Dialogue, comes as a reaction to estimates regarding the evolution of the labor market and possible restructuring in the budget sector. The Minister of Labor, Florin Manole, emphasized the importance of having job opportunities available for Romanian citizens, considering possible layoffs. Although the business environment requested an increase in the quota to 150,000, the proposal was rejected. The National Trade Union Block criticized the position of employers, who requested an increase in the number of foreign workers, despite calls to raise the minimum wage. Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan mentioned that the gross minimum wage could remain at the current level next year, and consultations on this matter will continue until the end of November.