---
title: Romania visa for citizens of South Africa
description: "Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Romania and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Stay up to 90 days. Fee: €90. Processing: 15–45 days. Documents checklist and application steps."
canonical: https://nowah.xyz/visa/romania/south-africa
lastModified: 2026-09-05
---

# Romania visa for citizens of South Africa

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.*

Application site: https://www.mae.ro/en/visa

## 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

- **Valid passport** (Identity): Must be valid for at least 3 months beyond intended departure from Romania.
- **Completed visa application form** (Identity): Download from the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
- **Passport-sized photographs** (Identity): Two recent colour photos meeting Schengen standards.
- **Travel itinerary** (Travel): Round-trip flight reservation or detailed travel plan.
- **Proof of accommodation** (Travel): Hotel bookings or invitation letter from host.
- **Travel medical insurance** (Travel): Minimum coverage of €30,000 for the entire Schengen area.
- **Proof of financial means** (Financial): Bank statements, payslips, or sponsorship letter.
- **Employment letter** (Employment): From employer stating position, salary, and approved leave.
- **Proof of civil status** (Supporting, optional): Marriage certificate, birth certificate of children if applicable.
- **Cover letter** (Supporting, 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.

## FAQs

### 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](https://www.mae.ro/en/visa)

## More

- [Romania visa for every passport](/visa/romania)
- [Every destination for South Africa passport holders](/visa/passport/south-africa)