Visa and Residence Procedures in Romania: A 2025 Guide

Romania has emerged as one of Europe’s most inviting relocation destinations, combining affordability, cultural depth, and modern infrastructure.

However, before you move to Romania, it is essential to understand the visa and residence system that governs foreign nationals living in the country.

Whether you’re planning a short visit, seeking employment, or relocating as a digital nomad, Romania offers a visa route tailored to your needs. Here’s what you need to know in 2025.

Short-Stay Visas (Type C)

If you’re visiting Romania for less than 90 days within any 180 days, you’ll likely need a Type C short-stay visa. This applies to tourists, business travellers, and those visiting family.

To apply, you’ll need:

• A valid passport
• A completed visa application
• Recent passport-sized photos
• Proof of accommodation (e.g., hotel reservation or invitation letter)
• Medical travel insurance
• Evidence of sufficient financial means

Visa processing usually takes 10–15 working days. Citizens of certain countries (such as those in the EU, the US, the UK, and Canada) can enter visa-free for short stays; however, always double-check Romania’s updated visa-exempt list before travelling.

Long-Stay Visas (Type D)

Those intending to remain in Romania longer than 90 days must apply for a Type D long-stay visa. This visa is available for various purposes, including employment, business, study, family reunification, medical treatment, and religious or volunteer work.

To apply for a Type D visa, you’ll need to submit:

• A valid passport
• Proof of your reason for staying (e.g., an employment contract or university acceptance letter)
• Proof of accommodation
• Health insurance coverage
• A police clearance certificate from your country of residence

You must apply for this visa at the Romanian consulate or embassy in your country of residence. Once issued, the visa allows you to enter Romania, but it’s only the first step toward gaining legal long-term status.

Applying for a Residence Permit

After entering Romania on a long-stay visa, expatriates must obtain a residence permit if they intend to stay for more than 90 days. The permit confirms your legal stay and is essential for opening a bank account, signing a lease, or securing healthcare.

The residence permit is handled by the General Inspectorate for Immigration, and you’re expected to apply at least 30 days before your long-stay visa expires.

To obtain one, you’ll need:

• A completed application form
• Your valid passport and visa
• Proof of accommodation in Romania
• Evidence of financial means (such as salary or savings)
• Health insurance valid in Romania
• A medical certificate from a local clinic
• Proof of your purpose in Romania (employment contract, enrollment letter, etc.)

Residence permits are typically valid for one year and can be renewed annually. Some permits—such as those for university students or skilled workers—may be valid for more extended periods.

Digital Nomad Visa: Romania’s Remote Work Path

Romania now offers a dedicated digital nomad visa, allowing remote workers to live in the country while working for companies based abroad. It’s an attractive option for freelancers, tech professionals, and remote business owners.

To be eligible, you’ll need to show:

• Proof of remote work or a business registered outside Romania
• A minimum monthly income of approximately €3,300 (the equivalent of three average gross salaries in Romania)
• Valid international or private health insurance
• A clean criminal record

This visa is initially valid for six months and can be extended for an additional six months. It provides the right to reside, but not to work for a Romanian-based company.

Permanent Residency in Romania

If you’ve lived in Romania continuously for five years under a residence permit, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency. This status provides you with increased security, fewer bureaucratic requirements, and the flexibility to stay indefinitely without annual renewals.

To qualify, you’ll need:

• Proof of continuous legal residence in Romania for at least five years
• A stable income
• Valid health insurance
• Legal housing arrangements
• A basic understanding of the Romanian language and society (you may need to pass a test)

Permanent residency also opens the door to applying for Romanian citizenship later on, should you choose to make the country your permanent home.

Navigating Romania’s visa and residence procedures in 2025 is not overly complicated, but it does require careful planning and up-to-date information. By understanding the available visa types and staying up-to-date with documentation requirements, expats can secure their stay and focus on building a rewarding life in Romania.

Whether you’re coming to work, study, explore, or enjoy a lower cost of living, Romania offers a welcoming legal framework for foreigners who play by the rules—and the rewards are well worth the effort.