How to Join the Romania Military
The realistic, step-by-step process for enlistment in the Romania armed forces — from first application to your first day of basic training.
- ▸6 main stages
- ▸~14 weeks application to training
- ▸Minimum age: 18 years
- ▸Starting pay: RON 4,500/month
The application process at a glance
Joining the Romania military takes approximately 14 weeks from initial application to starting basic training. The process has 6 main stages. Be patient — bureaucratic delays at any stage are normal.
Step-by-step recruitment stages
- Step 1: Application at local Military Recruitment and Mobilisation Centre
- Step 2: Medical examination
- Step 3: Physical fitness assessment
- Step 4: Psychological evaluation
- Step 5: Contract signing
- Step 6: Report to 4-month voluntary training programme
Age, citizenship, and basic qualifications
You must be at least 18 years old to enlist (and no older than 35). Romania citizenship is required. Medical and physical fitness standards apply at the screening stage.
What happens after you sign
After contract signing, you are scheduled for basic training (approximately 17 weeks). Initial pay starts at roughly RON 4,500/month as a Voluntary military service participant (monthly allowance). Your specific MOS / trade / specialty determines follow-on training duration and assignments.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to join the Romania military?
Typically 14 weeks from application to starting basic training, though delays are common.
Do I need Romania citizenship to join?
Yes — Romania citizenship is required for military service.
What test do I have to pass to enlist?
Each country uses different aptitude testing — the recruiter's office or career center will administer it. See specific guidance per branch.
- Romanian MoD — voluntary military service implementing order (2025); Balkan Insight summary (https://balkaninsight.com/2025/10/02/in-defence-push-romania-launches-volunteer-military-training-programme/bi/)
- Romania Journal — Volunteer Military Service Law promulgated; Balkan Insight reporting October 2025 (https://balkaninsight.com/2025/10/02/in-defence-push-romania-launches-volunteer-military-training-programme/bi/)
- Balkan Insight — In Defence Push, Romania Launches Volunteer Military Training Programme (October 2025) (https://balkaninsight.com/2025/10/02/in-defence-push-romania-launches-volunteer-military-training-programme/bi/)
- 2025 Volunteer Military Service Law; Romanian MoD eligibility criteria