Romanian Citizenship: Translation and Apostille Requirements
Pursuing Romanian citizenship by descent—especially through a great-grandparent—is a meaningful step that can reconnect you with your heritage and provide access to the benefits of EU citizenship. While it is possible to initiate this process on your own, a critical component where many applicants face complications is with document translation and legalization requirements, particularly when submitting documents to a Romanian consulate.
This article outlines what you need to know about translating and apostilling documents for your Romanian citizenship application.
Can You Start the Process Without a Third Party?
Yes. Many individuals begin the Romanian citizenship application independently. You can gather records such as birth, marriage, and death certificates, as well as census records, divorce decrees, and even USCIS archival documents on your own. You can also obtain apostilles for these documents by researching the correct procedure for your state.
However, despite being able to complete some of the work independently, most applicants eventually seek professional assistance—particularly for the translation phase.
Romanian Citizenship Translation Requirements: Why You Should Proceed with Caution
Official documents submitted to the Romanian authorities must be translated into Romanian. This is not simply a matter of language, but of compliance with consular standards that are often very specific and strictly enforced.
Common documents requiring translation include:
- Birth certificates translation into Romanian
- Marriage certificates Romanian translation
- Death certificates official translation
- Divorce judgments
- Census records
- USCIS or immigration documents
While it may be tempting to use a general translation company or even attempt translations using online tools, this can lead to delays or outright rejection by the Romanian consulate.
Why Romanian Translations Are Frequently Rejected
Romanian consulates have detailed formatting and submission rules. Common issues that lead to denial include:
- Non-certified translations – Translations must be done by authorized translators who meet Romanian legal standards.
- Missing apostilles on translations – In some cases, the translation itself (not just the original document) must be notarized and apostilled.
- Documents and translations submitted separately – Romanian authorities often require the apostilled original and its translation to be physically bound together in a specific format.
- Translations not meeting consular standards – Even if professionally done, translations may still be rejected if the translator is unfamiliar with Romanian consular expectations.
Because of this, not all translation providers—especially those based outside Romanian legal contexts—are prepared to meet these very particular requirements.
Can You Apostille Documents Yourself for Romanian Citizenship?
Yes, and in fact, many applicants do. Apostilles for U.S.-issued documents can be obtained through the Secretary of State office in the state where the document originated. Each state has its own process and turnaround time, so be sure to review the official state website or contact the appropriate office before submitting your request.
However, while apostilling can be done independently, the challenge comes in how those apostilled documents are presented to the Romanian consulate—especially when it comes to binding them with translations.
Do You Need Professional Help?
You are not required to hire a third-party company to begin your Romanian citizenship application, and many applicants are successful in gathering the required documents and apostilles themselves. However, when it comes to translating those documents into Romanian and ensuring they comply with strict consular requirements, most individuals benefit from professional assistance.
At Apoling Solutions, we specialize in certified Romanian translations that meet the exacting standards of Romanian consulates. We also assist with preparing and binding apostilled documents for submission, reducing the risk of delays or denials due to technical errors.
If you’re considering Romanian citizenship through descent, we’re here to guide you through the most complex parts of the process. Reach out to us for a consultation, or if you simply want to verify whether your documents are prepared correctly.