Investments Romania | How Foreign Investors Can Buy Farmland in Romania | The Complete 2026 Guide

Farm and land for sale in Romania Romania has become one of Europe’s most attractive destinations. It is ideal for agricultural land investment.

Investment farmland Romania

The country has fertile soils and competitive land prices. It also has a rapidly modernizing agricultural sector. This combination presents a unique opportunity for foreign investors. They can acquire high‑yield farmland in an EU member state. This country has strong long‑term growth potential.

This comprehensive guide explains the legal framework, acquisition process, and due diligence requirements. It also details strategic considerations for foreign investors seeking to buy farmland in Romania in 2025.

1. Why Romania Is a Top Farmland Investment Market

1.1 Fertile Soil and High Productivity Farmland for sale in Romania

Romania is home to some of the most productive soils in Europe. This includes the famous chernozem, which is known for its exceptional fertility. Large areas of the country support high‑yield crops like wheat, corn, sunflower, and rapeseed.

1.2 Competitive Land Prices – Romanian farmland for sale

Compared to Western Europe, Romanian farmland remains significantly undervalued.

  • Romania: €7,000–€20,000 per hectare (depending on region)
  • Western Europe: €20,000–€60,000+ per hectare

This price gap creates strong appreciation potential.

1.3 EU Subsidies and Stable Demand Agricultural land for sale in Romania

Farmers gain from APIA subsidies, which increase annual returns. Romania is also a major exporter of cereals and oilseeds, ensuring stable demand for agricultural production.

1.4 Large Plot Availability – Arable land for sale in Romania

Unlike many Western markets, Romania still offers large contiguous plots suitable for industrial farming. This makes it ideal for institutional investors and agribusiness groups.

2. Can Foreign Investors Buy Farmland in Romania?

2.1 EU Citizens and Companies – Farms for sale in Romania

EU citizens and EU‑registered companies can buy farmland in Romania without restrictions.

2.2 Non‑EU Investors – Large farmland for sale in Romania

Non‑EU investors can also acquire farmland, but typically through:

  • A Romanian company (SRL)
  • A European holding structure
  • Direct ownership (allowed but with extra conditions)

Most foreign investors choose to set up a Romanian SRL, which simplifies the acquisition process and provides tax advantages.

3. The Legal Framework for Farmland Acquisition

3.1 Pre‑emption Rights (Law 17/2014) Investment farmland Romania

When agricultural land is sold, certain categories have priority to buy it:

  1. Co‑owners
  2. Tenants
  3. Neighbors
  4. Young farmers
  5. The Romanian state (in specific cases)

This does not prevent foreign investors from buying land — it simply adds procedural steps.

3.2 Land Registration Requirements – Commercial agricultural land Romania

All land must be registered in the Land Book (Carte Funciară). If a plot is not registered, the seller must finish cadastral registration before the sale.

3.3 Notarial Authentication – Arable farmland investment Romania

All farmland transactions must be signed before a Romanian notary, who verifies:

  • Ownership
  • Encumbrances
  • Pre‑emption procedures
  • Cadastral accuracy

4. Step‑by‑Step Process for Foreign Investors

Step 1: Identify Suitable Land – Farm property for sale in Romania

Investors typically target:

  • Arable land (high‑yield crops)
  • Large consolidated plots
  • Land with irrigation potential
  • Land near logistics routes

Step 2: Conduct Legal Due Diligence – Agricultural investment opportunities Romania

This includes:

  • Verifying ownership
  • Checking for disputes or encumbrances
  • Confirming cadastral registration
  • Reviewing lease agreements (if land is rented)

Step 3: Agronomic Due Diligence – Farm and land for sale in Romania

A soil and productivity assessment is essential. Key factors:

  • Soil type
  • Crop history
  • Water availability
  • Access roads
  • Drainage and erosion risks

Step 4: Pre‑emption Procedure – Land for sale in Romania

The seller must notify pre‑emption holders. If none exercise their right, the sale proceeds normally.

Step 5: Sign the Sale Contract Investment land Romania

The contract is signed before a notary. Foreign investors sign:

  • In person
  • Through a power of attorney
  • Via a Romanian company

Step 6: Registration in the Land Book

After signing, the notary submits the contract to the Land Book for registration. Once registered, the investor becomes the official owner.

5. Costs and Taxes for Foreign Investors

5.1 Acquisition Costs

  • Notary fees: 0.5% – 1%
  • Land Book registration: €50–€200
  • Legal fees: €1,000–€5,000
  • Due diligence: varies by project size

5.2 Taxes

  • No annual land tax for farmland
  • Capital gains tax applies only upon resale
  • Corporate tax for Romanian companies: 16%

6. Expected Returns and Market Outlook

6.1 Land Appreciation – Strategic land investment Romania

Romanian farmland has appreciated 6–12% annually over the past decade. This trend is expected to continue due to:

  • EU integration
  • Consolidation
  • Foreign investment
  • Rising global food demand

6.2 Leasing Income

Typical lease rates:

  • €150–€300 per hectare per year
  • Higher for irrigated land

6.3 Operational Farming Returns

Investors who operate farms directly can achieve 8–15% annual ROI depending on crop type and scale.

7. Risks and How to Mitigate Them

7.1 Fragmented Land Ownership

Solution: work with a local partner experienced in consolidation.

7.2 Cadastral Inconsistencies

Solution: conduct thorough due diligence before signing.

7.3 Weather Variability

Solution: diversify crops and consider irrigation.

7.4 Tenant Issues

Solution: use professionally drafted lease agreements.

Conclusion

Romania offers one of the most compelling farmland investment opportunities in Europe. With fertile soils, competitive prices, and strong long‑term growth potential, the country is attracting increasing interest from international investors.

Foreign investors can acquire high‑quality farmland with confidence. They need to understand the legal framework and conduct proper due diligence. Partnering with experienced local advisors is also essential. This approach helps them build a profitable long‑term portfolio.

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Ion Tudor – Investments Consultant

Mobile: +40 734.845.159

contact@investmentsinromania.eu

www.investmentsinromania.eu

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