Recognition & Enforcement of Foreign Judgments in Romania (Exequatur)
Turn your foreign judgment into an enforceable title in Romania
IB Legal Business advises and represents international clients in the recognition and enforcement of foreign judgments in Romania, a process governed by the Romanian Civil Procedure Code, relevant European regulations, and international conventions to which Romania is a party.
Legal Framework
The applicable procedure depends on the origin of the judgment:
EU Member States – recognition and enforcement are carried out under the European Regulation on jurisdiction and the recognition and enforcement of judgments in civil and commercial matters, which ensures automatic recognition and simplified execution within the European Union.
Non-EU States – proceedings are based on the provisions of the Romanian Civil Procedure Code, relevant bilateral or multilateral treaties, or, where no such treaty exists, the principle of reciprocity under Romanian law.
Special regimes – certain categories of judgments (for example, family, insolvency, or arbitral matters) follow specific international conventions or procedural frameworks.
Conditions for Recognition
Romanian courts will grant recognition and enforcement when specific legal conditions are met, including:
The judgment is final and enforceable in the state of origin;
The foreign court had proper jurisdiction;
The parties were duly summoned and enjoyed the right to a fair trial;
The judgment does not contravene Romanian public order;
Reciprocity or a legal basis for recognition exists between Romania and the state of origin.
Procedural Overview
The process typically involves:
A preliminary assessment of enforceability under Romanian and international law;
Filing the exequatur application before the competent Romanian tribunal;
Translation and certification of the foreign judgment and related documents;
Representation before Romanian courts throughout the recognition and enforcement proceedings;
Coordination with enforcement officers once the recognition order is granted;
Execution of the judgment through seizure, garnishment, or asset sale, in accordance with Romanian enforcement procedures.
Practical Aspects
The recognition procedure generally takes between two up to six months, depending on the complexity of the case and the debtor’s response. Once recognized, the foreign judgment acquires the same legal force as a Romanian decision, allowing immediate enforcement. Our firm also provides strategic support in asset tracing, recovery, and coordination with enforcement officers to ensure effective execution.
Why Work with IB Legal Business
We combine international legal insight with local procedural expertise, ensuring accurate compliance with Romanian court requirements and practical efficiency in execution. Our lawyers maintain direct coordination with courts, bailiffs, and public institutions, supported by clear and timely communication in English, French, and other major business languages.
Our focus is on results that stand up both legally and commercially — outcomes that give international judgments real force within the Romanian legal system.
Digital Legal Access — Recognition Made Simple
At IB Legal Business, we understand that cross-border enforcement requires both precision and efficiency. That’s why we’ve developed a digital legal service dedicated to the recognition and enforcement of foreign judgments in Romania, allowing international clients to begin the process remotely and securely.
Through our online platform, you can submit your court decision and supporting documents, receive an initial legal assessment within 48 hours, and obtain a clear strategy and quotation before any formal steps are taken. This service is designed for companies and individuals who need rapid, reliable access to Romanian legal representation without unnecessary delays.
Start your recognition and enforcement process online — contact us or access our Digital Legal Service to move your judgment forward efficiently.
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