Foreigners interacting with public administration often assume that difficulties arise from language barriers or unfamiliar laws. While these factors play a role, most problems stem from deeper mismatches in expectations, behavior, and procedural assumptions.
These mistakes are understandable—but predictable. Recognizing them early can significantly improve outcomes.
Assuming the System Works the Same Everywhere
One of the most common errors is assuming procedural universality: the belief that rules, timelines, and institutional behavior function similarly across countries.
In reality:
- Administrative culture varies widely
- Informal practices matter as much as written law
- What works in one country may backfire in another
Applying “home country logic” often leads to confusion and resistance.
Expecting Complete Instructions Upfront
Many foreigners expect authorities to provide:
- Full lists of required documents
- Clear step-by-step guidance
- Definitive answers
In practice, information is often partial and reactive. Waiting for complete instructions usually results in delay rather than clarity.
Over-Reliance on Verbal Assurances
Foreigners frequently trust verbal statements such as:
- “It’s fine”
- “Don’t worry”
- “Come back later”
Without written confirmation, these assurances carry little weight. What sounds helpful may be procedurally meaningless.
Treating Politeness as Informality
Politeness is often misinterpreted as an invitation to be informal. In many administrations, especially hierarchical ones, excessive informality:
- Reduces perceived seriousness
- Undermines authority recognition
- Weakens your position
Formality is not hostility; it is alignment.
Escalating Too Early—or Too Late
Foreigners often escalate:
- Too early, due to frustration
- Too late, after opportunities have passed
Without understanding informal hierarchies and timing, escalation either provokes resistance or becomes ineffective.
Expecting Logic to Override Consistency
Arguments based on fairness, efficiency, or common sense are persuasive in some cultures. In many administrative systems, however, consistency and precedent outweigh logic.
Foreigners who insist on logic alone are often seen as difficult rather than correct.
Misreading Silence
Silence is frequently interpreted as:
- Approval
- Progress
- Neutral waiting
In reality, silence often signals avoidance. Assuming “no news is good news” is one of the costliest mistakes.
Underestimating the Importance of Presence
Many foreigners rely heavily on email or online portals, assuming they are equivalent to in-person interaction.
In practice:
- Physical presence signals commitment
- Paper creates traceability
- Repeated appearance demonstrates persistence
Avoiding in-person contact often weakens a case.
What This Means for You
Foreigners are not disadvantaged because they are outsiders, but because they apply the wrong mental model.
Effectiveness improves when you:
- Observe before insisting
- Document before trusting
- Formalize before escalating
- Adapt behavior without abandoning rights
Related reading
This article is part of a broader guide on how Romanian authorities actually work; each of the linked articles below explores one of these mechanisms in detail.