Sri Lankans have become a significant part of Romania’s workforce, contributing to the growing trend of foreign workers in the country, said a report by the Schenegan News yesterday.It said that by the end of last year, over 211,000 foreign workers were registered in Romania, with a notable influx from South Asia, particularly Nepal, which accounts for nine percent. Italians and Sri Lankans follow closely, each representing seven percent of the total foreign workforce.

Romania plans to admit up to 100,000 new foreign workers during this year.

“A significant influx of foreign citizens are staying and working in Romania, with a notable concentration from the Asian continent, particularly South Asia.

“According to a recent report from the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI), most foreign workers are now sourced from countries outside Europe, with Nepal emerging as the leading nation of origin.

“As of the end of 2023, Nepal accounted for nine per cent of the over 211,000 foreign workers registered in Romania. Following closely are Turkish nationals, who comprise eight per cent of the foreign workforce.

“These data also showed that most foreigners settled in Romanian cities as follows: Bucharest over 15,000, Ilfov – over 7,800, Constanta – over 6,100, Timi? – over 4,200, Bra?ov – 3,907, Cluj – over 3,300, Sibiu – over 2,600, Arad – over 2,400 and Prahova – 2,100.

“While Romania presents numerous economic opportunities for migrant workers, a recent study has unveiled significant challenges they face.

“Migrant workers in Romania struggle with limited access to social and public services. Many experience difficulties navigating the public health system and other essential services, primarily due to a lack of information and language barriers that hinder effective communication with authorities.

“Despite these issues, the country authorities recently reported that the latter is being used as a destination where some foreigners who have already arrived legally in Romania for employment purposes on work visas are trying to cross the state border into the Schengen Zone irregularly.

“Some data revealed that the Accommodation Centre for Foreigners Taken in Public Custody in Arad registered 400 migrants during the first half of 2024.

“As of the end of 2023, approximately 74,400 foreigners held residence permits for employment purposes in Romania, marking an increase of over 44 per cent compared to the same period in 2022. The majority of these workers are between 18 and 60, with only 382 individuals over 60, a figure that remains consistent with 2022.

“In response to the growing demand for labour, the Romanian government has established a quota of no more than 100,000 newly admitted foreign workers for the labour market in 2024. This initiative aimed to balance economic growth with protecting migrant rights, though significant challenges remain.”