South Africa passport → Romania

Romania visa for citizens of South Africa

Embassy / VFSShort-stay visa (Schengen C)

Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Romania and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Short-stay visa (Schengen C)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Visa validity	90 days
Entries	Single entry
Processing time	15–45 days
Government fee	€90
Passport validity	At least 3 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements for the last 3 months showing sufficient funds

How to apply

1
Determine visa type
Confirm you need a short-stay Schengen visa for tourism or business.
2
Gather required documents
Collect all documents listed above.
3
Complete visa application form
Fill out the form online or print and complete by hand.
4
Book an appointment
Schedule an appointment at the Romanian embassy or consulate in South Africa.
5
Pay visa fee
Pay the €80 fee (or equivalent in local currency) at the embassy.
6
Attend appointment and submit biometrics
Submit your application, provide fingerprints and photograph.
7
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 15 calendar days.
8
Collect passport
Return to the embassy to collect your passport with visa sticker.

Documents checklist

Identity

Valid passport
Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Romania.
Completed visa application form
Download from the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
Passport-sized photographs
Two recent colour photos meeting Schengen standards.

Travel

Travel itinerary
Round-trip flight reservation or detailed travel plan.
Proof of accommodation
Hotel bookings or invitation letter from host.
Travel medical insurance
Minimum coverage of €30,000 for the entire Schengen area.

Financial

Proof of financial means
Bank statements, payslips, or sponsorship letter.

Employment

Employment letter
From employer stating position, salary, and approved leave.

Supporting

Proof of civil status
Optional
Marriage certificate, birth certificate of children if applicable.
Cover letter
Optional
Explaining purpose of visit and itinerary.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: €50 per day of stay

Bank statements
Payslips
Sponsorship letter

Bank statements must cover the last 3 months.

Good to know

Apply well in advance as processing can take up to 30 days.
Ensure your passport has at least two blank pages.
Incomplete applications may be rejected.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient funds

Provide clear proof of adequate financial means.

Invalid travel insurance

Purchase insurance that covers the entire Schengen area with €30,000 minimum.

Incomplete documentation

Double-check all required documents before submission.

FAQ

Do citizens of South Africa need a visa for Romania?

Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Romania and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Short-stay visa (Schengen C).

How long can citizens of South Africa stay in Romania?

Up to 90 days.

How much does the Romania visa cost for citizens of South Africa?

Government fee: €90.

How long does Romania visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of South Africa need for Romania?

Valid passport; Completed visa application form; Passport-sized photographs; Travel itinerary; Proof of accommodation; Travel medical insurance; and 4 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Romania?

At least 3 months.

Where do I apply?

Applications go through https://www.mae.ro/en/visa. Check that you are on the government's site before you pay.

Sources

mae.ro

Plan your trip to Romania

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