My recruiter wants to keep my original documents.

Some procedures legitimately require originals to be presented to authorities, but that is different from a private actor retaining them indefinitely. Ask which document, for what procedure, for how long and who will physically hold it. Official Romanian visa guidance requires personal appearance with the original travel document at the diplomatic/consular stage; that does not answer every private retention request.

What to do next

Ask for the procedure and return date in writing.
Keep complete copies.
If your passport is retained against your will, treat that separately as a warning sign.

What the source says

RO-WARN-001 · Warning signs · verified 11 August 2026

Current official guidance lists warning signs including a requested placement commission, no contract before departure, no contract in an understood language, changing claims about salary/hours/accommodation/transport, passport retention, and a job different from the contract.

Date and context: 8 August 2026

Sources

WorkinRomania — information for foreign workersRomanian Government / WorkinRomania · Government guidance
WorkinRomania — visas and residenceRomanian Government / WorkinRomania · Government guidance

What this answer does not decide This page cannot decide whether your employer, recruiter or legal status is safe or lawful. Check the linked authority for your situation.