Romania Visit Visa Application Process & Requirements

Has the allure of Dracula’s homeland caught your fancy?

Are you yearning to immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Bucharest, or perhaps longing to experience the beauty of the Carpathian mountains firsthand?

All these Romanian treasures are within your reach, but first things first: the visa application process.

As your friendly neighborhood travel expert, I’m here to guide you every step of the way, in a manner as friendly as a Romanian shepherd’s welcome.

So let’s get started, shall we?

Step 1: Determine Whether You Need a Visa

Before anything else, you need to determine whether you need a visa to visit Romania.

If you’re from a country in the European Union, the European Economic Area, or Switzerland, you can pack your bags and skip right to booking your flight! The same goes for citizens of a select group of other countries, like the U.S., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, among others.

For the rest, a visit visa is required. You can check your country’s status on the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

Step 2: Get Acquainted with the Visa You Need

If you do require a visa, you’ll likely need a short-stay visa (marked C), which allows you to stay in Romania for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

This visa is perfect for tourism, business, or private visits.

Step 3: Ready Your Documents

Just like a successful journey, a successful visa application requires a bit of preparation. Here’s your to-do list:

1. Passport: Must be valid for at least six months from the date you enter Romania.
2. Visa Application Form: Fill it out online on the eVisa portal, then print and sign it.
3. Recent Passport Photos: Two of them, meeting the standard passport photo requirements.
4. Proof of Travel Insurance: Coverage must be at least €30,000, valid in all Schengen states.
5. Proof of Accommodation: This can be a hotel reservation, a letter of invitation from a Romanian host, or a document attesting to home ownership in Romania.
6. Proof of Sufficient Financial Means: Bank statements, pay slips, or pension statements can serve as proof.
7. Return Flight Ticket or Itinerary: No need to purchase in advance, a reservation will do.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Submit your application at the nearest Romanian diplomatic mission or consular post in your country. You can book an appointment online in most cases.

Step 5: Attend Your Visa Interview

During your appointment, you’ll have a visa interview and they’ll collect your biometric data (fingerprints and photograph).

Be prepared to explain your travel plans and bring all your documents with you.

FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered

Q1: How long does it take to get a Romanian visit visa?

The processing time for a Romanian visa can be up to 14 days. It’s always better to apply well ahead of your intended departure date.

Q2: Can I extend my Romanian visit visa?

Yes, under certain exceptional circumstances, such as force majeure or serious personal reasons. The request should be made to the Romanian Office for Immigration within the Romanian Ministry of Administration and Interior.

Q3: Can I travel to other countries with my Romanian visit visa?

Your Romanian visit visa is valid for travel in Romania only. However, if you hold

a two or multiple entry visa, you can travel between Romania and any other Schengen state.

Q4: How much will it cost me?

The visa fee is €80, but reduced fees may apply for certain nationalities, and children under 6 are exempt.

Q5: What happens if my visa application is rejected?

You have the right to appeal against the decision within 15 days of receiving the rejection letter.

And there you have it!

Your comprehensive guide to obtaining a Romanian visit visa. While the process may seem like navigating a Transylvanian forest at times, remember, your journey will soon reward you with a rich experience as flavorful as a Romanian sarmale.

Happy travels, my friend!

Always remember to check the official Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for the most up-to-date information.