Embarking on a journey to Romania requires navigating through a set of immigration requirements to ensure a smooth and lawful entry. Here’s a detailed guide to help you understand what you need before stepping foot in this culturally rich European country.

Passport Validity:

First and foremost, ensure your passport is valid. For entry into Romania, your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date.

Visa and Entry Requirements:

Romania has a visa policy that aligns with the regulations of the European Union. If you’re a non-EU citizen, you’ll need to obtain a visa to stay longer than 90 days within 180 days. The type of visa required depends on the purpose of your visit, whether it’s for tourism, business, study, or work.

Short Stay Calculator:

The European Commission provides a short-stay calculator to help you determine the length of time you can remain in Romania without a visa. This tool is particularly useful for those planning multiple entries or stays in other Schengen countries.

Residence Permits:

For longer stays, you’ll need to apply for a residence permit. Several types of residence permits are available, including temporary and long-term. The grounds for obtaining a residence permit can vary from starting a business, securing employment, or pursuing education in Romania.

Financial Sustenance:

You must prove you have sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay. This could be through bank statements or a letter of guarantee from a host or sponsor.

Health Insurance:

Having health insurance coverage is mandatory. You should have a policy that covers the duration of your stay and provides adequate coverage for any medical services you might need.

Documents Justifying the Purpose of the Trip:

Be prepared to present documents that justify the purpose of your visit. This could include an invitation letter, hotel reservations, return flight tickets, or other relevant documentation.

Schengen Information System (SIS) Check:

Your details will be checked against the SIS to ensure there are no alerts that would warrant a refusal of entry. Schengen nations use this procedure to maintain security and manage immigration effectively.

Non-EU Citizens Transit Requirements:

If you’re transiting through Romania, you must have a confirmed onward ticket and the necessary documents for your next point of destination. You should also not be on the list of individuals who are refused entry into Romania.

Customs Regulations:

Familiarize yourself with Romania’s customs regulations. There are restrictions on items you can bring into the country, including cash amounts over a certain threshold.

Application Process:

The application process for a Romanian visa involves submitting a completed application form, a valid travel document, proof of address, and payment of the required fees.

Recent Changes:

As of March 31, 2024, air and sea border control will be lifted and all the period of staying in Romania will be counted as stay in the Schengen zone.

Remember, immigration requirements can change, so it’s always best to check the latest information from your country’s official Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the Romanian Embassy before you travel. Safe travels!