Romanian visa resources
Eligibility for a Romania national long-stay route
A long-stay (Type D) visa for a specific purpose is the gateway to residence; each route has its own conditions on purpose, means and clean record.
Important
Non-EU nationals who want to stay in Romania for longer than a short visit must first obtain a long-stay visa (symbol D) that matches the purpose of their stay, then convert that stay into a residence permit issued by IGI after arrival. Eligibility is assessed against the specific route you apply under (for example employment, studies, family reunification, medical treatment or other purposes), rather than against a single generic standard.
Across the routes, applicants are generally expected to prove the qualifying purpose, show sufficient financial means of support, hold valid medical insurance for the period of stay, and present a criminal record certificate from their country of origin or residence. EU, EEA and Swiss citizens do not use this visa-and-permit route; they instead register their residence under free-movement rules.
Common eligibility conditions
- A defined purpose of stay matching a Type D visa category
- Proof of financial means (e.g. for employment, at least the guaranteed minimum gross salary for the visa period; for studies, the minimum net monthly wage)
- Valid medical/health insurance covering the whole stay
- Criminal record certificate from the country of origin or residence
- Proof of accommodation/dwelling space where required by the route
Long-term residence (settlement)
Separately from the initial routes, non-EU nationals who have lawfully and continuously resided in Romania for the last 5 years may apply for long-term residence. Absences of up to 6 consecutive months, and no more than 10 months in total across the period, are permitted without breaking continuity.
Next steps
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.
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