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Romania Visa for Afghanistan Citizens 2026

Visa Required

Afghanistan citizens require a Schengen visa to enter Romania, with applications typically submitted to the Romanian Embassy or Consulate responsible for their country of residence; fees vary by visa type and processing time can take several weeks.

Guide last updated July 26, 2026. Always verify with official sources before travel.

What you need

  • Passport: Must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in Romania and have at least two blank pages.
  • Visa Application Form: Completed and signed. The official form can usually be downloaded from the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MAE) website or the relevant embassy/consulate website.
  • Financial Proof: Bank statements for the last 3-6 months showing sufficient funds to cover your stay. The exact minimum amount is not always explicitly stated but should be demonstrably adequate for accommodation, meals, and return travel. For short-stay visas, this is generally considered around EUR 50 per day of stay, but can vary.
  • Accommodation Proof: Hotel bookings, rental agreements, or a letter of invitation from a Romanian citizen or resident if staying with someone.
  • Return Ticket: Proof of onward or return travel.
  • Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photographs (3.5 x 4.5 cm) with a white or light-colored background, taken full face directly facing the camera.
  • Biometrics: Fingerprints and digital photograph will be collected. This is usually done at the visa application center (e.g., VFS Global) or the embassy/consulate during the application submission.
  • Travel Health Insurance: Mandatory for all Schengen visa applications. Must cover medical expenses and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of EUR 30,000 and valid for the entire duration of your stay and across all Schengen Area countries.

Visa Types

  • Short-Stay Visa (Type C - Schengen Visa): For tourism, business, visiting family or friends, short-term study, or medical treatment.
  • Validity: Up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
  • Max Stay: 90 days.
  • Entry: Single or Multiple Entry.
  • Approximate Fee: EUR 80 (standard fee). Children aged 6-12 pay EUR 40. Children under 6 are usually exempt.
  • Long-Stay Visa (Type D): For employment, study, family reunification, or humanitarian reasons.
  • Validity: Varies depending on the purpose, typically issued for 90 days with the possibility of extension in Romania.
  • Max Stay: Depends on the purpose of stay, but the visa itself is often valid for 90 days to facilitate entry.
  • Entry: Usually Single Entry.
  • Approximate Fee: EUR 100 (standard fee), though specific fees can vary significantly by purpose.

How to apply

  • Application Submission: Afghanistan citizens generally apply for Romanian visas through the Romanian Embassy or Consulate responsible for their country of residence. In many regions, Romania uses external service providers like VFS Global to handle visa applications. You will need to book an appointment online through the official website of the embassy/consulate or the service provider.
  • Document Preparation: Gather all required documents as listed in the 'What you need' section. Ensure they are original or certified copies as specified.
  • Application Form: Complete the visa application form accurately and truthfully.
  • Appointment: Attend your scheduled appointment at the visa application center or embassy/consulate. You will submit your documents, provide biometrics, and pay the applicable fees.
  • Interview: Depending on the visa type and circumstances, an interview may be required.
  • Processing: Applications are processed by the consular section of the Romanian Embassy/Consulate. Processing times can vary significantly.

Fees & processing time

  • Visa Fee: The standard fee for a short-stay Schengen visa is EUR 80. Fees for long-stay visas can be higher, around EUR 100, but can vary by purpose.
  • VFS/BLS Service Fee: If applying through a service provider like VFS Global, an additional service fee will apply, typically ranging from EUR 20 to EUR 40, depending on the location and services used.
  • Total Cost Estimate: For a short-stay visa, expect to pay approximately EUR 100-120 per applicant, including service fees.
  • Standard Processing Time: For short-stay visas, the standard processing time is typically 15 calendar days. However, it can be extended up to 45 days in certain cases.
  • Express/Priority Option: While not always guaranteed or available for all applicants, some embassies or service providers may offer an expedited processing service for an additional fee. This should be verified directly with the relevant mission.

Tips for Afghanistan travelers

  • Apply in Advance: It is highly recommended to apply for your visa at least 1-2 months before your intended travel date, especially during peak seasons, to allow for processing and potential delays.
  • Common Rejection Reasons: Incomplete or fraudulent documentation, insufficient financial means, unclear purpose of visit, previous immigration violations, and security concerns are common reasons for visa rejection for applicants from Afghanistan. Ensure all documents are genuine and clearly state your intentions.
  • VFS/BLS vs. Direct Embassy Application: Applying through VFS Global or a similar service provider can offer convenience and more appointment slots. However, direct application to the embassy might be an option in some locations, though appointments can be harder to secure. Always check the official MAE website for the most accurate information on where to apply.
  • Travel Advisories: Always check the latest travel advisories issued by your home country and by Romania or the European Union regarding travel from Afghanistan.
  • Extension Options: Visa extensions within Romania are generally difficult to obtain and are granted only in exceptional circumstances (e.g., serious illness, force majeure). It is best to apply for a visa that covers your entire intended stay. For long-stay visas, extensions are typically managed through the Romanian Immigration Inspectorate based on specific legal provisions for the visa type.

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.