Visa-free entry with a family-member residence card
No visa neededFamily members of European single market citizens who hold a qualifying residence card and accompany or join that citizen can enter without a visa.
- Stay
- Up to three months.
2 ways to enter
Romania visas
Romania family visa
Some family members of European single market citizens can enter Romania without a visa using a qualifying residence card. Longer residence generally needs a long-stay visa or residence permit unless free movement rights apply.
Ways to get a Romania family visa
Long-stay visa or residence permit
Other permitTravellers from outside the European single market generally need a long-stay visa or residence permit for stays exceeding 90 days, unless another right or exemption applies.
- Stay
- A long-stay visa generally covers less than one year. A residence permit is used for longer periods.
Who needs it
Family members who do not qualify for an exemption need suitable entry permission. Travellers without free movement rights generally need long-stay permission to stay over 90 days.
Who doesn't
Family members of any nationality can qualify for visa-free entry with a valid travel document and a qualifying family-member residence card.
What to bring
- A valid travel document.
- A residence card showing that you are a family member of a European single market citizen.
Good to know
- Normally, you must accompany or join your European single market family member.
- A qualifying family-member residence card issued by a Schengen country also allows independent travel to another Schengen country.
- Detailed Romanian spouse, dependant and residence application procedures are not specified.
- A family member without the qualifying documents may, in theory, obtain a visa at the border by proving the family relationship.
Questions
Do I need a family visa for Romania?
Family members who do not qualify for an exemption need suitable entry permission. Travellers without free movement rights generally need long-stay permission to stay over 90 days. Family members of any nationality can qualify for visa-free entry with a valid travel document and a qualifying family-member residence card.
What are the ways to get a family visa for Romania?
There are 2 options: Visa-free entry with a family-member residence card (no visa at all); Long-stay visa or residence permit (a special permit).
Who can go to Romania without a family visa?
Family members of European single market citizens who hold a qualifying residence card and accompany or join that citizen can enter without a visa.
How long can I stay on a Romania family visa?
Up to three months for qualifying visa-free family visits.
What documents do I need for a Romania family visa?
A valid travel document.; A residence card showing that you are a family member of a European single market citizen..
What rules do I have to follow on a Romania family visa?
Normally, you must accompany or join your European single market family member. A qualifying family-member residence card issued by a Schengen country also allows independent travel to another Schengen country.
Does my passport change whether I need a family visa for Romania?
Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Romania visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.
Can a family visa for Romania be refused?
Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.
Where do I check the latest Romania family visa rules?
On Romania's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.
Can I change my family visa once I am in Romania?
Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.
Reviewed by @snuck