Romania has it all from the medieval charm of Transylvania to the vibrant life on the streets of Bucharest it truly is one of Europe’s most underrated gems, and we are thrilled to see Indian travelers discovering it, whether it is for its folklore of Dracula’s castle, the scenic views of the Carpathian mountains, or the beautiful beaches of the Black Sea. Romania is a unique combination of nature, culture, and history.
Before you can experience this Eastern European gem, you may need to navigate the Romanian visa process. Luckily, Romania is now a member of the Schengen Zone, and the process is easier and way less complex for Indian applicants.
Here’s your complete guide to the Romania visa for Indians and tips on how to help keep your experience as seamless as possible.
Understanding Romania’s Schengen Status
As of March 31, 2024, Romania is officially part of the Schengen Area for air and maritime travel. So, if you plan to arrive in Romania via air or sea, you can enter with your Schengen visa, and do not need a separate visa for Romania.
However, land border controls may remain at land borders with neighbouring countries (such as Hungary or Bulgaria), even though air and sea travel is clear, for the time being. If you are planning on travelling to Romania via road, this will be something for you to consider.
Now, what does this mean for travelers from India?
If you have a valid Schengen visa, you may enter Romania by air or sea with your existing visa and do not require another visa for Romania.
If you are applying for Romania as your main destination, then you would need to apply for a Schengen visa through Romanian consulates or authorized visa centres.
Types of Romanian Visas for Indians
Here are the main types of visas based on your reason to visit;
- Short-Stay Visa (Type C): For tourism, visiting family, business, and cultural activities (valid for a maximum of 90 days in any 180 days)
- Long-Stay Visa (Type D): For work, study, or family reunification (you will have to show various documentation, and might also need a residence permit)
- Transit Visa: For travelers who are passing through Romania as part of their travels to another destination.
- The visa that most tourists and short-term travelers will apply for is the Type C Schengen Visa.
Step-by-Step Application Process
1. Determine Your Point of Entry
If you are traveling to Romania as your main destination or it is the point of first entry into the Schengen zone, then you will apply for your visa through a Romanian visa center or embassy.
Likewise, if you are traveling to any of the Schengen countries and Romania is not the first entry or main destination, then you will apply through the country where you will spend the most time.
2. Schedule Your Appointment
Use the official Romanian visa portal or authorized partners such as OneVasco and schedule your appointment. OneVasco is a reputable agency supporting Indian applicants with visa services and can assist you with documentation, appointments, and biometric registration.
3. Collect Required Documents
Common documents may include:
- Completed Schengen visa application form
- A valid passport (with at least 2 blank pages and valid for 3 months after your return)
- Two passport-size photos taken recently
- Your travel itinerary (including flight and hotel bookings)
- Proof of your travel insurance (including cover of at least €30,000 in the Schengen zone)
- Evidence of financial means (bank statement for the previous 3 – 6 months)
- Proof of employment/student
- A cover letter stating your travel intentions
- Additional documents may be needed depending on your purpose.
4. Pay the Visa Fee
The standard fee for obtaining a Schengen visa is €80 for adults and €40 for children aged 6-12. Payment is made at the visa center.
5. Attend Your Visa Appointment
You will go to the visa center to provide biometric data (fingerprints, photo) with your documents. Make sure you have your documents in complete order.
6. Wait for Processing
Processing time is usually 10-15 working days, or longer, depending on the season and verification.
You can use the reference number given at the visa submission to track the application online.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Visa Approval
- Provide legitimate documentation – False or poorly sourced documentation is the most common reason for rejection.
- Apply early – Applications should be submitted 3–4 weeks before you travel.
- Buy refundable tickets – Especially true if your visa is not already approved, you want a refundable ticket just in case.
- Provide a good cover letter – Clearly state your intentions, dates, and plans.
- Consistent travel history. Prior international travel (especially Schengen) improves credibility.
Why Romania is the Perfect European Gateway for Indian Travelers
1. Incredible Value
With Romania being one of the cheapest locations in Europe, it is a perfect destination for Indian travelers to enjoy a European experience at an affordable price. Everything from accommodations to local food and attractions will give you plenty of opportunities to see more without paying more.
2. Rich Culture and History
Immerse yourself in stories and myths, traditional ways of life, and architectural pieces that reflect a dense cultural heritage—think UNESCO World Heritage Sites, beautiful medieval towns, historic Orthodox monasteries, or mythology intertwined with the story of Dracula’s castle.
3. Plenty of Nature and Adventure
From hiking and trekking in the stunning Carpathian Mountains to visiting deep underground salt mines, wildlife parks, and fairy-tale castles, Romania has incredible adventures for everyone!
4. Diverse and Modern Cities
Cities like Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca are quickly growing with modern European culture, fusing exciting nightlife, inventive food, contemporary arts, and historical customs.
5. Your Schengen Gateway to Europe
Now, under the Schengen Zone umbrella, Romania is a great launch pad for embarking on your travels around Europe. A single visa will permit travel to 25+ Schengen countries, making Romania a destination and an access point to Europe.
Final Thoughts:
Romania is quickly becoming the destination of choice for Indian travelers looking for something different from the typical European travel circuit. With a unique history, scenery, and cost of travel, it has truly immersive experiences, and now, thanks to Romania’s induction into the Schengen Zone, the visa process is as streamlined as it can be.
With the preparation of your documents, submitting applications proactively, and if you are not new to travel, asking for expert support, all while partnering with reputable visa facilitation services like OneVasco. You can conquer your journey from application to arrival.