Comprehensive Guide for the Romanian Schengen Visa

Romania is set to fully implement the Schengen acquis as of March 31, 2024, making it a significant milestone for travelers. With this change, Romania will issue Schengen visas, which will allow visa holders to travel freely across the Schengen area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This guide covers everything you need to know about the new Romania Visa, the application process, and essential information for travelers.

Romania’s Integration into the Schengen Area

Starting from March 31, 2024, Romania will be part of the Schengen Area, and the country will lift air and sea border controls, aligning with Schengen rules. This will simplify travel for many, but there are still specific requirements to be aware of when applying for a Romania Visa.

Types of Romanian Schengen Visas

Romania will issue various types of Schengen visas to cater to different travel needs:

Uniform Schengen Visa (Type C)

The uniform Schengen visa allows the holder to stay in the Schengen area, including Romania, for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This visa is ideal for short-term tourism, business trips, or family visits.

Visa with Limited Territorial Validity (VLTV)

A VLTV allows the holder to travel only to specific Schengen states, as indicated on the visa. This type of visa may be granted for special cases, and the travel rights will be limited to the mentioned territories.

Airport Transit Visa (Type A)

An airport transit visa is required for travelers passing through the international transit area of airports in Schengen states on their way to a non-Schengen destination. This visa does not permit entry into the Schengen area.

Long-Stay Visa (Type D)

Although Romania will issue Schengen visas, the Type D long-stay visa will remain a national visa. It is intended for those who plan to stay in Romania for more than 90 days, typically for work, study, or family reunification.

Visa Requirements for Romania

To apply for a Romania Visa, there are specific requirements that must be met:

Key Requirements:

• A valid passport (issued within the last 10 years, valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended stay).
• Completed visa application form.
• Passport-sized photographs (3.5 x 4.5 cm).
• Proof of travel insurance covering at least €30,000 for medical expenses, repatriation, and emergency care.
• Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter).
• Financial evidence (bank statements or proof of sponsorship) showing sufficient funds for the stay.
• Proof of return travel (flight reservations or tickets).
• Additional documents may be required depending on the purpose of your visit, such as work permits, acceptance letters from universities, or proof of family relations.

Application Process for Romania Visa

Visa applications can be submitted up to three months before your intended travel date. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the process:

1. Complete the visa application form

Download and fill out the visa application form, ensuring all details are accurate and in line with your travel plans.

2. Prepare necessary documents

Collect all the required supporting documents, such as passport, photos, financial proof, insurance, and travel itinerary. For long-stay visas, additional documents related to employment or education may be necessary.

3. Submit your application

Submit your completed application and documents to the Romanian embassy or consulate in your country of residence, or through a designated Visa Application Center (VAC).

4. Attend the interview

For long-stay visas, a personal interview may be required to verify the purpose of your visit and your eligibility for a Romania Visa.

5. Visa processing time

Processing times for short-stay visas are typically between 10 and 15 days, while long-stay visas may take up to 30 days or longer, depending on the applicant’s nationality and the complexity of the application.

Romanian Schengen Visa Fees

The fee for a Romania Visa is generally in line with Schengen visa fees, but specific fees may vary based on the applicant’s nationality, visa type, and purpose of travel. As of 2024, the standard Schengen visa fee is €80, with reduced fees for certain categories of applicants, such as students and children.

Important Information for Romania Visa Holders

From March 31, 2024, short-stay visas issued by Romania will allow travel to all Schengen countries. However, for visas issued before this date, travel will be restricted to Romania, Bulgaria, and Cyprus.

Additionally, stays in Romania will count toward the 90 days in any 180-day period limit for the Schengen area. It’s important to plan your travels accordingly to avoid overstaying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Romania visa valid for Schengen?

Yes, starting from March 31, 2024, a Romania Visa will be valid for travel within the entire Schengen Area for stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. However, visas issued before this date will only be valid for Romania and select countries.

Is Romania on the Schengen Country List?

Yes, as of March 31, 2024, Romania will officially be part of the Schengen Area. The Schengen area will include Romania along with 28 other countries, such as France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and others.

How much is the Romania visa fee?

The fee for a Romania Visa aligns with Schengen visa fees, which is typically €80 for a short-stay visa. There may be fee reductions for certain groups, such as students, children, or family members of EU citizens.

How much bank balance is required for a Romania student visa?

For a Romania student visa, applicants typically need to demonstrate sufficient financial means to cover their expenses during their stay. While the exact amount may vary, it’s generally recommended to have at least €2,000-3,000 in your bank account to show financial stability for the duration of your studies.

By following this guide, you can ensure that you meet all the requirements for your Romania Visa and plan your travels to the Schengen Area with confidence.