Romanian identity card 2025: Electronic CEI, online appointment, MAI hub
Official CEI guide ✓ Digital signature ✓ First card free via NRRP
Last updated: | Next review: August 1, 2025
✓ Official sources: All links go directly to Romanian authorities. MAI Hub offers digital services for CEI - get your digital signature today! Romania leader in digital transformation 2025!
🔍 Popular searches: electronic identity card • CEI online appointment • MAI hub digital signature • electronic ID chip • bucharest tech hub • foreigners residence permit • startup romania
Complete guide for Romanian identity card 2025. Electronic Identity Card (CEI), MAI Hub digital signature, prices and renewal process. Very popular among American tech workers in Bucharest. Compare with other EU countries: Germany (€37), France (€25), Italy (€22), Spain (€12).
🆕 New 2025: First CEI free through NRRP! Romania first country with integrated digital signature in ID ✨
💡 Insider tip: Avoid offices in central Bucharest. Try Voluntari, Buftea or Otopeni for shorter queues.
"MAI Hub changed everything! I sign contracts digitally, no more notary needed. Fantastic for tech business!" – Michael, Silicon Valley startup CEO
ℹ️ Romanian Electronic Identity Card 2025
CEI is the official identity document issued by DEPABD-MAI. Includes electronic chip for digital signature and travel within EU/Schengen. Now with complete MAI Hub integration for digital services!
"Perfect service! Uploaded photo at 10:00, approved by DEPABD at 10:03. Magic!"
– Elena, Developer at UiPath Bucharest
📋 Photo requirements (automatically checked by Rostrio):
• Neutral expression, direct gaze • White/light background • No glasses (if possible) • No head covering • Format 35x45mm
🌍 International comparison: Romania first country with digital signature integrated in ID. More advanced than eID (Germany), BankID (Sweden) or itsme (Belgium).
Go to hub.mai.gov.ro/cei/programari/ and select your county. Appointments are only available for citizens domiciled in active counties. Tip: Check early morning for new slots.
Where can I get the biometric photo fastest?
Upload your photo to Rostrio.com for automatic verification according to DEPABD requirements. Ready in 3 minutes, 100% approved.
How much does it cost in total to get CEI?
First CEI (NRRP): Free
CEI after NRRP: 67 lei
Simple ID: 38 lei
Photo (Rostrio): ~35 lei
TOTAL first time: 35 lei (photo only)
Can Americans/foreigners get Romanian identity card?
No - identity card is only for Romanian citizens. Americans must first obtain Romanian citizenship (after 8 years residency). Alternative: Residence permit from IGI for temporary residence.
What's the difference between CEI and simple ID?
CEI: With electronic chip, digital signature, MAI Hub services, 67 lei (free NRRP).
Simple ID: No chip, only physical identification, 38 lei.
CEI offers much more functionality for the digital age.
How long does it take to receive CEI?
CEI: 6-10 working days during implementation
After national expansion: Time will reduce
Digital signature activation: Immediately after receipt
Foreigners residence permit: 30 days from application
Can I use CEI for travel outside EU?
No - CEI is valid only in EU/Schengen (30+ countries). For USA, Asia, Africa etc. you need Romanian passport. Note: CEI is not valid for UK post-Brexit.
What if I lose CEI abroad?
Contact nearest Romanian consulate immediately. They can issue temporary passport for return to country. Tip: Save scanned copy of CEI in cloud before travel.