If you’re planning to do business, enter a relationship, or engage in any legal or financial transaction in Romania, it’s crucial to verify the background of the person or company involved. A background check in Romania can help you avoid fraud, misrepresentation, or legal complications.
This guide explains how to legally and effectively conduct a background check in Romania, especially if you’re a foreigner dealing with Romanian individuals or entities.
What Is a Background Check in Romania?
A background check in Romania typically involves verifying public records related to a person’s or company’s identity, legal history, and financial standing. This can include criminal records, court proceedings, business registrations, and property ownership.
Although Romania has data protection laws, many records are publicly accessible—especially when requested through a licensed Romanian lawyer.
Types of Background Checks You Can Conduct in Romania
There are several legal and effective ways to perform a background check in Romania:
1. Criminal Record Check (Cazier Judiciar)
Romanian citizens and foreign nationals can request a criminal record certificate, known as “cazier judiciar.” This document shows whether the individual has been convicted of a crime in Romania.
How to Request It:
- In person at Romanian police stations (for citizens or residents)
- Through a Romanian lawyer with a notarized power of attorney (for foreigners abroad)
This is a vital step if you’re verifying someone for employment, a relationship, or a financial agreement.
2. Romanian Court Records Search
You can search public court cases in Romania using the official Portalul Instanțelor de Judecată (portal.just.ro). This allows you to check if an individual or company has been involved in legal proceedings.
Information Available:
- Civil cases (e.g., lawsuits, debt claims)
- Criminal cases
- Family law cases (e.g., divorce, custody)
A Romanian lawyer can assist in interpreting the results and accessing archived files that are not publicly detailed.
3. Business and Company Verification
If you’re dealing with someone who claims to own or represent a Romanian business, it’s essential to verify that information.
Where to Check:
- Registrul Comerțului (National Trade Register Office): Shows company registration, shareholders, directors.
- Ministerul Finanțelor: Provides financial statements, tax information, and insolvency status.
A lawyer or due diligence firm can run comprehensive checks, including hidden ownership and legal risks.
4. Property Ownership and Asset Checks
A background check in Romania can also include verifying property ownership. This helps determine whether a person owns real estate or is involved in property disputes.
How to Access:
- Through ANCPI (National Agency for Cadastre and Real Estate Publicity)
- With legal assistance from a Romanian lawyer
This is especially useful in fraud prevention related to real estate investments or inheritance claims.
5. Identity Verification and Reputation Screening
While Romanian national ID databases are not publicly accessible, it is possible to confirm someone’s identity, match it with public records, and check their online reputation.
Lawyers or licensed investigators may also verify:
- Previous employment claims
- Educational background
- Public mentions in Romanian news sources
Why Hire a Lawyer for a Background Check in Romania?
Foreign individuals often face language barriers and legal complexity when trying to access Romanian records. Hiring a Romanian lawyer ensures:
- Legal and ethical access to sensitive data
- Interpretation of legal documents and court rulings
- Assistance in filing complaints or legal actions if needed
Lawyers can also provide notarized reports that can be used in legal disputes or formal proceedings.
What You Cannot Check Legally
Even with legal support, Romanian privacy laws prohibit access to:
- Medical records
- Private conversations or emails
- Banking information (unless under investigation)
Attempting to access this information without consent is illegal and can result in prosecution.
Avoid Online Scams Offering Instant Background Checks
There are many websites claiming to offer instant background checks in Romania. Most of these services are unreliable or outright fraudulent. For accurate, legal, and thorough results, always consult a reputable Romanian lawyer or investigation firm.
Need Help with a Background Check in Romania?
Tapu.ro connects you with experienced Romanian lawyers who can conduct professional background checks for personal, legal, or business purposes. Whether you’re verifying a business partner, checking a potential romantic partner, or protecting yourself from scams, a lawyer-led background check in Romania gives you peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Conducting a background check in Romania is not only possible—it’s highly recommended when dealing with legal, financial, or personal matters involving Romanian citizens or companies. With the right legal help, you can access public records, verify claims, and protect yourself from fraud or deception.