Skip to content
2 ways to enter

Romania visas

Romania visa on arrival

A visa at the Romanian border is reserved for exceptional cases. It is not a routine visitor option.

Ways to get a Romania visa on arrival

  1. Exceptional single-entry Schengen visa

    Visa on arrival

    Travellers who prove that unforeseeable, urgent circumstances prevented them from applying in advance and who meet the normal visa criteria may qualify.

    Stay
    Up to 15 days.
    Valid for
    Up to 15 days.
    Entries
    Single entry.
  2. Family-member visa at the border

    Visa on arrival

    In theory, family members of European single market citizens who do not meet the usual document conditions can obtain a border visa by proving their family relationship.

Who needs it

This route may help travellers who could not apply in advance because of unforeseeable, urgent reasons and who meet the normal visa criteria.

What to bring

  • Evidence that unforeseeable, urgent circumstances prevented an advance application.
  • Evidence that you meet the normal Schengen visa criteria.

Good to know

  • The normal Schengen visa criteria must still be met.
  • If consultation with other Schengen authorities is required, a border visa is restricted to exceptional humanitarian reasons, national interests or international obligations.
  • An airline may refuse boarding if you do not already hold the required entry documents.
  • A close relative's death or sudden serious illness is an example of an exceptional humanitarian situation.

Questions

Do I need a visa on arrival for Romania?

This route may help travellers who could not apply in advance because of unforeseeable, urgent reasons and who meet the normal visa criteria.

What are the ways to get a visa on arrival for Romania?

There are 2 options: Exceptional single-entry Schengen visa (a visa at the border); Family-member visa at the border (a visa at the border).

How long can I stay on a Romania visa on arrival?

Up to 15 days for the exceptional single-entry Schengen visa.

How long is a Romania visa on arrival valid?

Up to 15 days. Entries: Single entry..

What documents do I need for a Romania visa on arrival?

Evidence that unforeseeable, urgent circumstances prevented an advance application.; Evidence that you meet the normal Schengen visa criteria..

What rules do I have to follow on a Romania visa on arrival?

The normal Schengen visa criteria must still be met. If consultation with other Schengen authorities is required, a border visa is restricted to exceptional humanitarian reasons, national interests or international obligations.

Does my passport change whether I need a visa on arrival 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 visa on arrival 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 visa on arrival 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 visa on arrival 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