No, owning a monkey in Romania is prohibited under national wildlife protection laws unless exemptions are granted for scientific, educational, or conservation purposes. The 2026 amendments to Legea nr. 462/2001 (Wildlife Protection Act) reinforce this ban, aligning with EU biodiversity directives. Non-compliance risks fines up to €20,000 or confiscation under Ordinul nr. 1.521/2023 (Ministry of Environment).
Key Regulations for Owning a Monkey in Romania
- Absolute Prohibition: The Legea nr. 462/2001 (as amended in 2026) classifies monkeys as protected species, banning private ownership without a special permit from the Ministerul Mediului, Apelor și Pădurilor (MMAP).
- Permit Exemptions: Only zoos, research institutions, or conservation programs may apply for permits, subject to MMAP’s strict criteria, including habitat suitability and veterinary oversight.
- Penalties: Violations trigger administrative fines (€5,000–€20,000) or criminal charges under Codul Penal (Art. 277), with animals subject to immediate seizure by Garda Națională de Mediu.