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Romania Visa for South Africa Citizens 2026

Visa Required

South African citizens need a Schengen-type Type C visa to visit Romania for stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period; apply directly through the Romanian Embassy in Pretoria, as there is no VFS centre.

Guide last updated October 22, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure, with at least 2 blank pages
  • Completed and signed Schengen-style visa application form
  • 2 recent biometric passport photos
  • Travel medical insurance covering at least €30,000 for the Schengen area
  • Proof of accommodation in Romania
  • Round-trip flight reservation
  • Proof of sufficient funds, roughly €50 per day as a guide
  • Invitation letter if visiting family or friends
  • Biometrics (fingerprints and photo) collected in person at the embassy

Visa types

  • Type C Tourist visa: single or multiple entry, up to 90 days within 180 days
  • Type C Business visa: requires an invitation letter from a Romanian company
  • Type C Family visit visa: requires an invitation from the host in Romania

How to apply

  • Romanian visa applications from South Africa are submitted directly at the Romanian Embassy in Pretoria, since there is no VFS centre
  • Book an appointment with the embassy and submit documents and biometrics in person
  • An interview may be requested
  • Pay the visa fee at the embassy
  • Standard processing takes around 15 calendar days, longer for complex cases

Fees & processing time

  • Visa fee: €90 for adults, €40 for children aged 6-12, free under 6
  • No separate service fee, since the application is handled directly by the embassy
  • Standard processing time: 15 calendar days, up to 30-45 days in exceptional cases

Tips for South Africa travelers

  • Book your embassy appointment well in advance, as the Pretoria mission has limited appointment capacity
  • Since Romania joined the Schengen area (air and sea borders from 2024, land borders from 2025), a Romanian visa now permits onward travel to other Schengen states
  • Provide strong documentation of ties to South Africa (employment, property, family) to support your application
  • Keep proof of funds and accommodation well organised, as Romanian consular officers review these closely

Official links & resources

Always confirm requirements with government or embassy sources before applying.

This guide is for information only. Visa policies change without notice. Travel Visa Stack is not an immigration authority. Always verify with official government or embassy sources before making travel plans.