This page has been reviewed and verified by Michael Gibbons, Regulated Immigration Advisor, to ensure accuracy under current EU and Romanian immigration guidance. You can confirm current rates and costs through our Romanian Visa Application Guide.
The time it takes to process a Romania Visa depends on your nationality, visa type, and where you apply. In 2025, most short-stay visa applications are processed within 10 to 15 working days from the date of your appointment at the Romanian embassy or authorised VFS Global centre.
Standard Processing Times
The following are average processing timelines for different categories of Romania visas in 2025:
- Tourist Visa (Type C): 10 to 15 working days.
- Business Visa (Type C): 10 to 15 working days.
- Transit Visa (Type B): 7 to 10 working days.
- Medical Visa (Type C): 10 to 15 working days.
- Student Visa (Type D/SD): 30 to 60 days.
- Family Reunion Visa (Type D/VF): 30 to 60 days.
- Long-Stay Work or Study Visa: Up to 60 calendar days.
Processing times may vary depending on embassy workload, documentation completeness, and verification requirements by the Romanian General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI).
Priority and Express Visa Processing
Romania currently offers limited priority or express services through select embassies and visa centres.
Where available, the VFS Global network provides optional paid services such as:
- Priority Processing: Average turnaround of 5 to 7 working days.
- Super Priority (limited availability): 2 to 3 working days, for urgent travel cases.
These options may vary by country and are subject to embassy discretion. Check Schengen Priority & Express Services (2026) for current availability.
Factors Affecting Processing Times
Your visa application may take longer than expected if:
- Additional documents are requested by the embassy or IGI.
- You applied during a high-volume period (summer or holidays).
- Security or background checks are required.
- Your application includes family members or dependants.
- You applied in a country where Romania has no direct embassy (handled by a partner mission).
When to Apply
The Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs recommends submitting your visa application at least:
- 15 days before travel (minimum), and
- 90 days before travel (maximum advance submission window).
Applying early ensures sufficient time for document verification or embassy interviews.
Delays and Requests for Additional Information
If your application is delayed, you may receive an email or phone notification requesting additional documents.
Common reasons include incomplete accommodation proof, missing insurance details, or verification of travel history.
After a Decision
Once a decision is made:
- Approved applicants receive a visa sticker in their passport with validity dates clearly stated.
- If refused, the decision letter will explain the reasons, see Visa Refusal Reasons (2026).
Related Guidance
- Visa Fees (2026)
- Visa Application Guide (2026)
- Schengen Processing Times (2026)
- Embassy Contact Details (2026)
About This Page
Author: Visa Applications Editorial Team.
Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, Regulated Immigration Advisor.
Last Updated: 5 January 2026.