UK Visa for Romanian Citizens: 2024 Fees and Entry Requirements

UK Visa for Romanian Citizens: 2024 Fees and Entry RequirementsThis guide offers comprehensive details on the application process and fees for Romanian citizens and residents seeking UK visas. It’s especially useful for Romanians applying for work visas, covering eligibility, fees, and application steps. Post-Brexit, Romanian nationals require visas for long-term stays in the UK, including work and study, while short visits are exempt from visa requirements. Non-EU residents in Romania, however, must obtain a visa for any duration of stay. This guide aims to simplify the UK visa process for Romanians in various categories.


UK Visa for Romanian Citizens 2024 Expert Guidance
Uk Visa For Romanian Citizens 2024 Expert Guidance

1. Overview: UK Visa for Romanian Citizens 2024


UK Entry Requirements for Romanian Citizens after Brexit

Activity Type  Visa Requirement
Tourism, Business Meetings, Academic ConferencesRomanians can stay in the UK for up to six months without a visa for tourism and short business meetings.
Work, Study, Settlement Romanians require specific visa.
Business Travel (extended activities)Depending on the nature of activities, Romanians may require a UK Visa.
UK Entry Requirements for Romanian Citizens after Brexit

UK Visa Fees Romania

The UK Visa Fees Romania varies by visa type, with tourist visas at US$145, student visas at US$619, and spouse visas at US$2,332.

 Visa TypeUK Visa Fees Romania 2023
Tourist Visa€138 (6-months)
Student Visa€589
Skilled Worker€864 (up to 3 years)
€1,707 (over 3 years)
Spouse Visa€2,218
UK Visa Fees Romania

UK Visa Processing Time from Romania

Visa Type and ServiceProcessing Time and Cost from Romania (2023)
Non-Settlement Visas (Standard Processing)10-15 working days (2-3 weeks)
Non-Settlement Visas (Priority Service)5-7 working days, Extra Cost: €601
Settlement Visas (Standard Processing)Up to 12 weeks
Settlement Visas (Priority Service for Romanian Passport Holders and Residents)6 weeks, Extra Cost: €601
Super-Priority ServiceNext working day, Service Fee: €1,202
UK Visa Processing Time from Romania

Note: Extended processing up to 12 weeks may occur in some cases for non-settlement visas from Romania due to various factors such as document verification or administrative delays.

UK Visa for Indian and Pakistani Nationals in Romania

Visa Requirements for Non-EU Residents

  • Indian Passport Holders: As non-EU residents in Romania, Indian nationals need a UK visa for visiting, working, studying, and family settlement.
  • Pakistani Passport Holders: Similar requirements apply to Pakistani nationals in Romania. They must obtain a UK visa for the same range of purposes.

UK Visit Visa for Pakistani and Indian Nationals in Romania

  • Purpose: For short holidays or visits to the UK from Romania.
  • Processing Time: Typically, 10-15 working days for non-settlement visas, including visit visas.
  • Priority Services: Available for faster processing in Romania.
  • Application Submission: Biometric submissions usually occur at TLS application centre DBH-Group Serviced office, Buzesti Business Center 2nd floor, Buzesti Street 50-52, Bucharest Sector 1, Romania.
UK Visas for Romanian Citizens
Infographic Detailing Key Metrics For Uk Visa For Romanian Citizens, Including Success Rates, Processing Times, Fees, And Priority Service Options.

2. Coming to UK from Romania for Travel and Tourism


Do Romanian Need Visa for UK for Visiting and Tourism?

Romanian citizens, as part of the non-visa national category, usually do not require a visa for UK visits of up to 6 months. However, non-EU nationals living in Romania need to obtain a visa for such visits. In certain cases, as specified in Paragraph V 1.3 of Appendix V of the Immigration Rules, Romanian citizens must apply for a UK visa:

  • When intending to marry or form a civil partnership in the UK, or to announce such intentions formally.
  • If planning a stay in the UK that exceeds six months.

UK Standard Visit Visa from Romania

The standard visitor visa is for tourism, family visits, business meetings, short-term studies, and other allowed activities. Romanians and EU residents in Romania typically don’t need a standard visa to visit the UK. However, non-EU residents like Indian or Pakistani passport holders must apply for a standard visa to visit the UK.

Essential Criteria: UK Visit Visa from Romania

To secure a UK Visit Visa from Romania, applicants must satisfy multiple criteria. The foremost requirement is stating the clear purpose of the visit, whether it’s tourism, business, or visiting family. Applicants also need to provide proof of financial means to support their stay in the UK, along with evidence of accommodation arrangements. Furthermore, proof of onward or return travel is required to ensure the applicant intends to leave the UK after the visit. Meeting these essential criteria is critical for obtaining a UK Visit Visa from Romania.

In the year ending September 2022, a total of 79 Romanians applied for visitor visa UK. 72 applications resolved, 38 visit visas granted to Romanian nationals, and 33 applications rejected. Therefore, the UK visitor visa success and refusal rate from Romania are 52.78% and 45.83%, respectively.

UK Visit Visa Fee from Romania

As of 2024, UK visa fees Romania is €138 for a 6-month visa, €481 for a 2-year visa, €927 for a 5-year visa, and €1,157 for a 10-year visa. All these visas have a maximum stay limit of 180 days per visit.

The standard visitor visa processing time form Romania is usually 3-weeks. Romanians can fast track the decision time within one week, by purchasing the priority service for €601.

UK Tourist Visa for Romanian Citizens

Romanian nationals applying for a UK tourist visa must complete an online application form and submit several key documents. These include proof of intent to return to Romania, evidence of financial means, and a thorough travel plan. The visa process requires a fee of €138, and applicants must provide biometric data at a visa application center.

Important Documentation for Romanian Applicants:

  • Intent to Return to Romania: Documents such as a letter from your Romanian employer or educational institution, confirming your commitments in Romania post-UK trip.
  • Proof of Financial Capability: Bank statements are required to show adequate funds for your stay in the UK.
  • Comprehensive Travel Itinerary: Detailed plans including confirmed accommodation and transportation bookings within the UK.

Snapshot: Other UK Visitor Visas from Romania

Visa Type for Romanian CitizensUK Visa Fees Romania 2023
Marriage Visitor Visa: For Romanians to get married or registering civil partnership in the UK. Duration: Up to 180 days.€138
Private Medical Treatment Visa: For Romanians to get private medical treatment in the UK lasting 6-11 months. Note: Attendants must apply separately.€240
Visiting Academics: For Romanian academic professionals engaging in research or educational exchanges for up to 12 months.€240
Permitted Paid Engagement (PPE): For Romanian professionals to perform short-term paid tasks like lecturing or assessing, available for up to 30 days.€138
Parent of Child Student Visa: For Romanian parents of children in fee-paying day schools in the UK. Duration: 12 months.€766
Other UK Visitor Visas from Romania

3. Romania to UK Visa for Study


The UK Student Visa permits Romanian citizens to pursue a range of educational opportunities in the UK, from higher education to Student Union roles.

In the year ending September 2022, a total of 358 Romanians applied for student visa UK. 357 applications resolved, 348 student visas granted to Romanians, and 2 applications rejected. Therefore, the UK student visa success and refusal rate for Romanians are 97.48% and 0.56%, respectively.

UK Student Visa Fees from Romania

Romanian students seeking to obtain a UK Student Visa will need to pay a standard application fee of €589. The processing of the visa typically takes about 3 weeks. For those requiring faster processing, there is an option for expedited service, available at an additional cost of €601.

Along with the visa fee, Romanian students are also obligated to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which amounts to £624 per year as part of their visa application process.

Short-term English Language Visa

The short-term study visa is designed for Romanians studying English in the UK for 6-11 months, costing €240. A 6-month course costs €138.

Work Rights for Students from Romania

Post-Study Work Opportunities

Romanian graduates can avail a 2-year post-study work visa. PhD holders can get a 3-year visa.

4. Romania to UK Visa for Family Settlement


The UK Family Visa under Appendix FM allows Romanian citizens to join family members who are either settled in the UK or British citizens. Categories range from spouse visas to adult dependent relatives and parent of a British child visas.

In the year ending September 2022, a total of 54 Romanians applied for family settlement visa UK. 14 applications resolved, 12 family settlement visas granted to Romanians, and 1 application rejected. Therefore, the UK family (spouse) settlement visa success and refusal rate from Romania are 85.71% and 7.14%, respectively.

Spouse or Partner Visa UK from Romania

  • Eligibility: Romanian citizens must meet the requirements set out in Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules, ensuring a genuine relationship, financial stability, adequate housing, and English language competency.
  • Validity & Extensions: The spouse visa is granted for an initial period of 33 months and can be extended after 30 months. Eligibility for ILR is attainable after 5 years.
  • Cost: The standard visa fee is €2,218, plus an additional €601 for the optional expedited service

Other Family Visas

Visa CategoryUK Visa from Romania Cost 2023
Fiancé(e) Visa
For Romanians intending to marry or form a civil partnership in the UK. Valid for 6 months.
€2,218
Parent of a British Child Visa
For Romanians who are the sole caregivers of a British child.
€2,218
Adult Dependent Relative Visa
For Romanians requiring long-term care from a UK-based relative.
€3,906
Returning Residents Visa
For Romanians who have previously been settled in the UK and wish to return.
€766
Other Family Visas from Romania

5. UK Working Visa for Romanian Citizens 2024


Can Romanian Work in UK after Brexit?

After Brexit, Romanian citizens need work permit for working and doing business in the UK. Romanians often choose the Skilled Worker visa when seeking employment in the UK. Other options include visas such as the Innovator, Startup, Global Business Mobility, and Health and Care Worker.

In the year ending September 2022, a total of 2,882 Romanians applied for work visa UK. 3,015 applications resolved, 2,283 work visas granted to Romanian nationals, and 657 applications rejected. Therefore, the UK work visa success and refusal rate from Romania are 75.72% and 21.79%, respectively.

Skilled Worker & Health Care Visa

Romanians looking to work in the UK in skilled occupations have specific visa options available to them. The Skilled Worker Visa and the Health and Care Worker Visa are designed for Romanians sponsored by a licensed Home Office sponsor and offer a pathway to permanent settlement in the UK.

Visa Type and DetailsUK Visa Fees Romania 2023
Skilled Worker Visa
For Romanians in skilled roles with a licensed Home Office sponsor. Offers a route to permanent UK settlement.
€864 (up to 3 years), €1,707 (over 3 years)
Skilled Worker (Shortage Occupation) Visa
For Romanians in specific shortage occupations.
€662 (up to 3 years), €1,303 (over 3 years)
Health And Care Work Visa
For Romanian health professionals like doctors, nurses, or allied health professionals, sponsored by a licensed Home Office sponsor. Leads to permanent UK settlement.
€341 (up to 3 years), €662 (over 3 years)
Skilled Worker & Health Care Visa from Romania

Global Business Mobility Visa UK

An overview of the UK work visas under the Global Business Mobility category for Romanians, including their fees for 2023.

Visa CategoryUK Visa Fees Romania 2023
Senior or Specialist Worker Visa
Ideal for senior managers or specialists from Romania transferring to a UK branch.
– Up to three years €864
– Longer than three years €1,707
Graduate Trainee Visa
For Romanian individuals in graduate training programs leading to specialist roles in the UK.
€358
UK Expansion Worker Visa
For Romanian specialists or senior personnel looking to expand a business into the UK.
€358
Service Supplier Visa
For Romanian professionals providing services under UK trade agreements.
€358
Secondment Worker Visa
Specifically for Romanians seconded to the UK for significant contracts or investments.
€358
Global Business Mobility Visa UK from Romania

Quick Guide to Other Work and Business Visas:

Below is a brief overview of various UK visa categories along with their associated fees for Romanians looking to work or do business in the UK.

Visa CategoryUK Visa Fees Romania 2023
Start-Up Visa
For Romanians starting an innovative business in the UK.
€523
Innovator Visa
For Romanians with innovative, viable, and scalable businesses. Requirements include an endorsement, £50,000 investment, and B2 IELTS level.
€1,431
Innovator Founder Visa (Introduced 2023)
Ideal for Romanian entrepreneurs. Simplified process with endorsement approval, could lead to UK family residency.
– Endorsement €1,202
– Application €1,431
Investor Visa
For high-value Romanians investing in the UK.
€2,264
High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa
For Romanian graduates from top-50 global universities seeking employment in the UK.
€988
Scale-Up Visa
For Romanians with a job offer from an authorised UK scale-up company. Leads to potential UK settlement after 5 years.
€988
Global Talent Visa
For Romanians who are leaders or potential leaders in academia, research, arts, or digital technology.
– Approval Letter for initial application from Romania: €630
– Romanian Main Applicant with Approval Letter: €231
– Main Applicant without Approval Letter and for Dependants: €860
T2 Minister of Religion Visa
For Romanians intending to undertake preaching and pastoral work.
€864
International Sportsperson Visa
For elite Romanian sportspersons or coaches contributing to UK sports. Fee varies based on Certificate of Sponsorship duration.
– Up to 12 months CoS €358
– More than 12 months CoS €864
T5 (Temporary Worker) Visa
For Romanians in various sectors, such as seasonal, religious, or creative workers.
€358
Quick Guide to Other Work and Business Visas from Romania
How to Apply UK Visa in Romania?
Comprehensive Infographic: Step-By-Step Guide To Applying For A Uk Visa From Romania

6. How to Apply for UK Visa from Romania?


A comprehensive guide tailored for Romanians and residents in Romania, outlining each step for applying for a UK Work Visa. This guide delves into the necessities for skilled workers aiming to work in the UK. Note: Priority service may expedite the process to 15 working days instead of the standard 30.

Total Time: 30 days

  1. Assess Eligibility and Visa Type

    Determine the Visa Type

    Ensure you meet the general criteria for a UK Work Visa and identify the specific type of work visa you need, such as Skilled Worker (previously Tier 2 General), Health and Care, Global Business Mobility, T5 Temporary Worker, etc.

  2. Secure a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

    Secure a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

    Before applying, obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship from your prospective UK employer. This is a mandatory requirement for most work visas.

  3. English Language Proficiency

    English Language Proficiency

    Ensure you meet the English language proficiency requirements, either through certification or by coming from a majority English-speaking country.

  4. Create an Account

    Create an Account

    Navigate to the UK’s official immigration website and register an account on the UK Visas and Immigration platform.

  5. Complete the Application Form

    Complete the Application Form

    Fill in the online work visa application form, making sure all information is consistent with your CoS and other supporting documents.

  6. Pay the Visa Fee

    Pay the UK Visa Application Fee

    Complete the payment for the visa application fee as guided by the system.

  7. Gather Your Supporting Documents

    Assemble Your Supporting Documents

    Compile essential documents like your Romanian passport, CoS, proof of English language proficiency, and financial documents.

  8. Book Biometric Appointment

    Schedule a VAC Appointment

    Schedule an appointment for biometrics at a UK Visa Application Centre (UKVAC) in Romania if not using Immigration App.

  9. Attend Your Appointment

    Attend Your Appointment

    Bring all required documents to the Visa Application Centre and complete the biometric procedures.

  10. Wait for Decision

    Wait for Decision

    After submitting your application, wait to be notified of the decision.

  11. Passport Collection or Delivery

    Passport Collection or Delivery

    Upon approval, collect your passport with the visa attached or opt for courier delivery.

  12. Prepare for UK Arrival

    Prepare for UK Arrival

    With your work visa secured, prepare for your travel to the UK, abiding by the conditions outlined in your visa.

Estimated Cost: 864 €

Supply:

  • Application form
  • Valid Romanian Passport
  • Certificate of Sponsorship
  • English Language Proficiency Certificate
  • Visa Fee in EURO
  • Financial Proof

Tools:

  • Internet access
  • Romanian Passport or Residence Permit
  • Financial documents

Materials: UK visa online application form, printed. Financial Statements: Previous 6 months' Bank Records. Original Document Copies: Conveyance Deeds, Rental Agreements, and Family Form.

7. Romania to UK Visa Supporting Documents Requirements


Documents Required for UK Visa from Romania

  • Passport or Travel Document Validity: Romanian applicants need to ensure that their passport is valid throughout the duration of their UK visit and includes a blank page for the visa sticker.
  • Application Form Completion: Romanians should accurately complete and authenticate their application via the UK Visas and Immigration portal.
  • Details of Accommodation in the UK: Romanian citizens must provide information regarding their intended accommodation during their stay in the UK.
  • Financial Sufficiency Evidence: Demonstrating adequate financial means for the duration of your UK stay is required.
  • UK Travel Itinerary: A detailed itinerary outlining travel plans and activities in the UK is necessary.
  • Ties to Romania Evidence: Proof such as employment, educational, or family ties in Romania, indicating the intention to return, should be provided.
  • English Language Skills: If mandated, typically proven through a certified English language test.

Note: The list here provides the basic documentation typically required for Romanian citizens applying for UK visas. However, it’s important to check the specific requirements for the chosen visa category, as additional documentation may be necessary.

Category-Specific Documentation for Visas:

  • Work Visas: Documents including a job offer, Certificate of Sponsorship, and relevant qualifications are necessary.
  • Study Visas: A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) is required.
  • Family Visas: Proof of family relationships, such as marriage certificates or birth certificates.
  • Tourist Visas: Romanians may need to provide further details about their trip.

For Romanian Applicants with UK-based Sponsors:

Romanian residents with sponsors in the UK should include the sponsor’s supporting documents, especially important for visas that typically require sponsorship, such as employment or family visas.

Sponsor Documentation Should Include:

  • An Invitation Letter from a UK sponsor.
  • Proof of the Sponsor’s Immigration Status in the UK.
  • Financial Statements of the Sponsor.
  • Accommodation Evidence from the Sponsor.
  • Relationship Confirmation with the Sponsor, if relevant.

Remember: While support from a UK sponsor can be beneficial, meeting the primary visa criteria is crucial for Romanian citizens applying for a UK visa.

8. FAQs: UK Visa for Romanian Citizens 2024


  1. How long can Romanians stay in the UK?

    Romanians can stay up to 180 days on a visitor visa. For other visa types like spouse, student, and work visas, the duration is defined by the visa validity. Romanians can extend their stay by meeting Leave to Remain (LTR) requirements. Certain visa routes also allow for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and eventual British citizenship.

  2. How Many Romanians Live in the UK?

    As of 2020, around 350,000 Romanian-born residents lived in the UK, according to Office for National Statistics (ONS). This figure may have changed and doesn’t include Romanians descendants or naturalized citizens.

  3. Do UK Citizens need a visa for Romania?

    From February 2023 onwards, for stays up to 90 days, visas are not needed, but ETIAS authorization is a prerequisite.

  4. What Romanians can do if UK Visit Visa is Refused?

    Romanians can reapply or seek Judicial Review. No appeal rights exist for visitor visa refusals. Appeals are possible on human rights grounds.

  5. Can Romanians Work on Visiting Visa in the UK?

    Work is not permitted. Violations may lead to visa cancellation and re-entry bans.