Romania Schengen Visa

Romania Schengen Visa – Essential Travel Guide and Requirements

Romania and Bulgaria became the newest Member States to join the Schengen area — air and sea borders opened on 31 March 2024, and full membership including land borders followed on 1 January 2025.

Planning a trip to Romania? A Schengen visa allows you to visit Romania and 28 other European countries. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate the application process and requirements.

To apply for a Romanian visa, you must submit your application in person at the Romanian diplomatic mission or consular post responsible for your area of residence.

Why Visit Romania?

Romania is known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and cultural diversity:

• Tourism: Explore the breathtaking scenery of the Carpathian Mountains (opens in new tab), visit the historic sites of Sighisoara (opens in new tab) and the stunning castles of Transylvania (opens in new tab), and enjoy the vibrant culture of Bucharest (opens in new tab).

• Business: Romania presents a growing market in technology, agriculture, and tourism, making it an attractive destination for business travelers.

Romania Schengen Visa Requirements

To apply for a Romania Schengen Visa, you will need the following documents:

1. Visa Application Form:

• Complete the application form available here (opens in new tab).

2. Photograph:

• A recent passport-size photo in color with a white background, adhering to the Schengen visa photo requirements (opens in new tab).

3. Original Passport:

• Must be valid for at least three months post the intended departure from Romania.

• Issued within the last 10 years and containing at least two blank pages.

• Include photocopies of previous passports and any Schengen visas with entry/exit stamps.

4. Proof of Employment / Proof of Student Status (Original):

• If Employed:

• A recent signed letter from your employer on headed paper, including your name, date of issue, address, contact details, position, and registration number in the UK. Include payslips for the last three months.

• If Self-Employed:

• A letter from an accountant, banker, or solicitor detailing the nature of self-employment or business ownership in the UK, along with a self-assessment form.

• If Student:

• A letter from your UK educational institution stating your details, type of studies, and attendance record.

5. Proof of Sufficient Funds:

• Bank statements for the last three months showing sufficient funds for subsistence. Note: the consulate may request additional months of statements.

6. Proof of Travel Arrangements:

• Confirmed return flight, train, or bus tickets to Romania, or proof of onward travel. If driving, provide vehicle details, driving license, car insurance, and ferry tickets.

7. Proof of Accommodation:

• Hotel booking, rental agreement, or another document confirming your accommodation arrangements.

8. Travel Health Insurance:

• Must show your name, have coverage of at least €30,000, be valid in all Schengen countries, and cover the entire intended stay. The insurance must be obtained from a company based in the UK or a Member State.

When to Apply for a Romania Schengen Visa

Submit your application at least 15 days before your intended travel date and no earlier than 6 months before departure. Early application helps avoid delays and ensures sufficient time for processing.

Processing Time

• The minimum processing time for a visa application is 15 calendar days.

• Each application must be cleared by the Romanian Foreign Ministry. If lodged less than 15 calendar days before intended travel, timely completion of the visa process cannot be guaranteed.

Romania Schengen Visa Fees

A Schengen visa to Romania comes with standard fees, as these are uniform across Schengen countries:

• Consulate Fee: €90 for adults.

• Children (Aged 6–11): €45.

• Children Under 6: Free.