This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about UK visa for Romanian citizens in 2026, including the new ETA requirement, post-Brexit work visa rules, and entry requirements. Romania has one of the largest diaspora communities in the UK, with an estimated 1.1 million Romanians living in Britain before Brexit. Whether you're visiting family, planning a holiday, or exploring work opportunities in the UK, this guide explains the current rules, fees in Euros, and step-by-step application process for Romanian nationals.
The relationship between Romania and the UK has transformed dramatically since Brexit. Romanians who settled in the UK under EU free movement rules and secured EU Settlement Scheme status retain their rights to live and work. However, new Romanian arrivals now need an ETA for visits and a work visa for employment—a significant change from the pre-2021 era when Romanians could freely move to the UK. Romania joined the European Union in 2007, and Romanian workers became some of the most valued contributors to the UK economy, particularly in agriculture, construction, healthcare, and hospitality.
UK Visa for Romanian Citizens: Overview & Requirements 2026
The UK visa requirements for Romanian citizens changed fundamentally after Brexit. As EU nationals, Romanians previously enjoyed freedom of movement to live and work in the UK without any visa. Since 1 January 2021, this has ended. Romanian citizens now need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for short visits and a work visa for employment. However, Romanians who were already living in the UK and applied to the EU Settlement Scheme retain their full rights to live and work.
UK Entry Requirements for Romanian Citizens
Romanian citizens need: (1) a valid passport (Romanian ID cards are no longer accepted for UK travel), (2) an approved ETA (€19), and (3) evidence of being a genuine visitor who will leave within 6 months. For work, study, or longer stays, Romanians must apply for the appropriate visa and can use the UK Immigration: ID Check app for biometrics—no VAC visit needed.
The UK entry requirements for Romanian citizens have changed significantly since Brexit. Before 2021, Romanians could enter the UK using just their national ID card (buletin). Now, a full passport is required, along with an approved ETA for visits.
What Do Romanians Need to Enter the UK?
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for duration of stay (ID cards no longer accepted)
- Approved ETA: €19, valid for 2 years, apply via UK ETA app
- Return/Onward Travel: Evidence of return flights or onward journey
- Accommodation: Hotel booking or host's address in UK
- Sufficient Funds: Ability to support yourself without working or accessing public funds
- Genuine Visitor: Intent to leave within 6 months, not live permanently in UK
At the UK border, immigration officers may ask about your travel plans, accommodation, and funds. While detailed questioning is less common for Romanian visitors than for some nationalities, having your hotel booking and return flight details accessible on your phone helps speed up the process. For comprehensive information about what's allowed during your visit, see our guide on permitted activities for UK visitors.
Do Romanians Need a Visa for the UK?
Romanian citizens do not need a visa for short visits to the UK (up to 6 months for tourism, family visits, or business meetings). However, from April 2, 2025, all Romanian citizens must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) costing €19 before travelling. For work, study, or stays longer than 6 months, Romanians must apply for the appropriate visa—this is a major change from the pre-Brexit era when no visa was required for any purpose.
The answer to "do Romanians need a visa for UK" depends entirely on what you want to do in the UK. For short visits, no visa is required—just an ETA. But for work, study, or settlement, Romanians now face the same visa requirements as non-EU nationals. This is the most significant change since Romania joined the EU in 2007.
UK ETA Requirements for Romanian Citizens
- ETA Fee: €19 (£16) per person
- Validity: 2 years or until passport expires (whichever is sooner)
- Stay Duration: Up to 6 months per visit
- Multiple Entries: Yes, unlimited visits within validity period
- Processing Time: Usually within 3 working days (often minutes)
- Application: Via UK ETA app (recommended) or gov.uk website
- Requirement: Each traveller needs own ETA (including babies and children)
For more information about the ETA system and exemptions, see our comprehensive guide on the UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme.
How Long Can a Romanian Stay in the UK?
Romanian citizens with an ETA can stay in the UK for up to 6 months (180 days) per visit. There is no annual limit on the number of visits, but spending extended periods in the UK (such as 6 months in, then returning shortly after) may raise questions about whether you're genuinely visiting or effectively living in the UK. Romanians with EU Settlement Scheme status (settled or pre-settled) can stay indefinitely.
UK Working Visa for Romanian Citizens
Romanian citizens now need a work visa to be employed in the UK. The main route is the Skilled Worker visa (€922-€1,821), requiring sponsorship from a UK employer with a valid licence and a minimum salary of £41,700 (from July 2025). Romanians benefit from being able to use the UK Immigration: ID Check app for biometrics—no Visa Application Centre visit required. Alternative routes include the Health and Care Worker visa, Youth Mobility Scheme, and Seasonal Worker visa.
The UK working visa for Romanian citizens represents the biggest post-Brexit change. Before 2021, Romanians could work in the UK without any permit or visa. Now, Romanians must secure a job offer from a licensed UK sponsor and apply for a work visa—the same process as applicants from India, Pakistan, or any non-EU country.
Skilled Worker Visa for Romanians
The Skilled Worker visa is the main route for Romanian nationals seeking employment in the UK. You need a job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsor licence who will issue you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
- Visa Fee: €922 (up to 3 years) or €1,821 (over 3 years)
- Minimum Salary: £41,700 per year (general threshold from July 2025)
- IHS: £1,035/year (exempt for Health and Care Worker visa)
- Sponsor Required: Yes, employer must have valid sponsor licence
- Biometrics: Via UK Immigration: ID Check app (no VAC visit needed)
- English Requirement: CEFR Level B1 (or exempt if from majority English-speaking country)
- Settlement: Eligible for ILR after 5 years
Health and Care Worker Visa
Romanian healthcare professionals have a dedicated route with significant advantages. The Health and Care Worker visa offers lower fees, faster processing, and IHS exemption.
- Visa Fee: €364 (up to 3 years) or €707 (over 3 years)
- IHS Exempt: Yes—saves over £3,000 for a 3-year visa
- Eligible Roles: Doctors, nurses, care workers, allied health professionals
- Biometrics: Via UK Immigration: ID Check app
- Processing: Often prioritised, typically faster than standard Skilled Worker
Seasonal Worker Visa
Romanian workers previously formed a significant part of the UK's seasonal agricultural workforce. The Seasonal Worker visa allows temporary work in horticulture (up to 6 months) or poultry processing (up to 6 months during peak periods).
- Visa Fee: €382
- Duration: Up to 6 months
- Sectors: Horticulture (fruit/vegetable picking) or poultry processing
- Sponsor Required: Yes, through approved scheme operators
- No Settlement: Cannot lead to permanent residence
Youth Mobility Scheme
Romanian citizens aged 18-30 may be eligible for the Youth Mobility Scheme visa, allowing them to live and work in the UK for up to 2 years without needing a job offer or sponsor. Places are limited and may be allocated by ballot. Check current eligibility as Romania's inclusion depends on bilateral agreements.
Can Romanians Work in UK After Brexit?
Yes, Romanians can still work in the UK after Brexit, but they now need a work visa. Romanians who were living in the UK before 31 December 2020 and applied for EU Settlement Scheme status retain full work rights. New Romanian arrivals must secure a job offer from a licensed UK sponsor and obtain a Skilled Worker visa (or other work visa) before they can be employed. Working without the correct visa is illegal and can result in deportation and future visa bans.
The question "can Romanians work in UK after Brexit" is one of the most common queries, reflecting the dramatic change in rights. Before Brexit, Romanians could arrive in the UK and start working immediately with no paperwork required. Now, the process requires:
- Job Offer First: Must have a confirmed job offer before applying for visa
- Licensed Sponsor: Employer must hold a valid Home Office sponsor licence
- Salary Threshold: Must meet minimum salary requirements (£41,700 general threshold)
- Skill Level: Job must be at RQF Level 3 or above (A-level equivalent)
- English Language: Must prove English ability at CEFR B1 level
- Visa Fees + IHS: Significant upfront costs (€922+ plus £1,035/year IHS)
EU Settlement Scheme Status
Romanians who were living in the UK before 31 December 2020 could apply for the EU Settlement Scheme. Those with Settled Status have indefinite leave to remain and full work rights. Those with Pre-Settled Status can work but must apply to convert to Settled Status after 5 years of continuous residence or risk losing their rights.
Moving to UK from Romania
Moving to the UK from Romania now requires either: (1) securing a job offer and work visa before arrival, (2) obtaining a student visa to study, (3) applying for a family visa if joining a British or settled partner/family member, or (4) qualifying for the Youth Mobility Scheme if aged 18-30. The days of simply moving to the UK and finding work after arrival are over for Romanians without settlement status.
For Romanians planning to relocate permanently, the most common routes are now:
UK Visa Fees for Romanian Citizens 2026 (in Euros)
UK visa fees for Romanian citizens in 2026 start at €19 for an ETA (visits only). Visa fees range from €152 for a 6-month Standard Visitor visa to €2,323 for a spouse visa. Skilled Worker visas cost €922-€1,821 depending on duration. Romania uses Euro fees as an EU member state. All fees are non-refundable.
The UK visa fees are set by the Home Office and converted to Euros for applicants in Romania and other Eurozone/EU countries. The fees below are current as of January 2026:
Visit Visa & ETA Fees from Romania
Work, Study & Family Visa Fees from Romania
Note: Work visa fees do not include the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) of £1,035/year (approximately €1,242) which must be paid separately. Health and Care Worker visa holders are exempt from IHS.
UK Tourist Visa from Romania
Romanian citizens do not need a tourist visa for the UK—they only need an ETA (€19). The ETA allows tourism visits of up to 6 months. For non-EU residents living in Romania (such as Moldovan, Ukrainian, or other non-EU nationals), a Standard Visitor visa (€152) is required for any UK visit. Apply for your ETA via the UK ETA app before travelling.
The term "UK tourist visa from Romania" typically refers to the ETA for Romanian citizens, which functions as the entry requirement for tourism. Romanian passport holders can visit the UK for sightseeing, visiting friends and family, attending events, or business meetings without obtaining a formal visa—just the €19 ETA.
What Can Romanians Do on an ETA Visit?
- Tourism: Sightseeing, holidays, attending events
- Family Visits: Visiting relatives and friends
- Business Meetings: Attending meetings, conferences, negotiations
- Short Courses: Study for up to 30 days (or 6 months for accredited courses)
- Medical Treatment: Receiving private medical treatment
- Transit: Passing through the UK to another destination
For a complete list of what's allowed and prohibited during a UK visit, see our guide on permitted activities for UK visitors. If you plan to visit frequently, a long-term visitor visa may be worthwhile despite the higher cost, as it provides certainty of entry rights.
UK Visa for Non-EU Citizens in Romania
Non-EU nationals residing in Romania (such as Moldovan, Ukrainian, Turkish, or other non-EU citizens with Romanian residence permits) must apply for a Standard Visitor visa (€152) for any UK visit. Your Romanian residence status does not grant visa-free access to the UK.
- Valid Passport: From your country of nationality
- Romanian Residence Permit: Proof of legal residence in Romania
- Financial Evidence: Bank statements showing sufficient funds
- Employment Proof: Letter from Romanian employer confirming employment and leave
- Travel Itinerary: Flight bookings, hotel reservations, or sponsor's invitation letter
- Ties to Romania: Evidence you will return (employment, property, family)
How to Apply for UK Visa from Romania
The UK visa application process from Romania differs depending on whether you're a Romanian citizen applying for an ETA or visa, or a non-EU national residing in Romania.
For Romanian Citizens (ETA Applications)
Romanian citizens visiting the UK only need to apply for an ETA via the UK ETA app. The process takes minutes:
- Step 1: Download the UK ETA app (iOS or Android)
- Step 2: Scan your Romanian passport using NFC
- Step 3: Take a selfie for identity verification
- Step 4: Answer security questions
- Step 5: Pay €19 fee
- Step 6: Receive approval (usually within 3 working days)
For Romanian Citizens (Work/Study/Family Visas)
Romanian citizens applying for work, study, or family visas can use the UK Immigration: ID Check app to submit biometrics from home—no visit to a Visa Application Centre required. This is a significant advantage over non-EU applicants.
- Step 1: Complete online application at gov.uk
- Step 2: Pay the visa fee online (in Euros)
- Step 3: Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (if applicable)
- Step 4: Download UK Immigration: ID Check app
- Step 5: Scan passport and take selfie for biometrics
- Step 6: Upload supporting documents online
- Step 7: Wait for decision (3 weeks standard)
For Non-EU Nationals in Romania
Non-EU citizens residing in Romania must apply through VFS Global and attend a Visa Application Centre to provide biometrics. Complete the online application form, pay the fee, and book an appointment at the Bucharest VAC.
UK Visa Application Centre in Bucharest
VFS Global operates the UK Visa Application Centre in Romania. Non-EU nationals must book an appointment through the VFS Global Romania website:
UK Visa Processing Time from Romania
Standard UK visa processing time from Romania is approximately 3 weeks for visitor visas and other non-settlement applications. Settlement visas (spouse, family) take up to 12 weeks. ETAs are typically processed within 3 working days, often within hours. Priority service (€599) reduces processing to 5 working days. Super Priority (€1,199) aims for next working day decisions.
For detailed information on UK visa processing times, including what happens if there are delays, see our comprehensive guide. If your application is taking longer than expected, our guide on UK visa delays explains your options.
Romanian Community in the UK: Key Statistics
Romania has one of the largest diaspora communities in the United Kingdom, reflecting decades of migration and the significant impact of EU free movement before Brexit:
- Pre-Brexit Population: Estimated 1.1 million Romanian-born residents in the UK
- EU Settlement Scheme: Over 1.1 million Romanians applied for settled/pre-settled status
- Key Sectors: Healthcare (NHS), agriculture, construction, hospitality, logistics
- Main Concentrations: London, Birmingham, Manchester, Leeds, Southampton
- Economic Contribution: Significant contribution to UK economy, particularly in essential services
- Post-Brexit Change: Net migration from Romania to UK declined sharply after 2020
- Romanian citizens need an ETA (€19) for visits—strictly enforced from 25 February 2026
- Work visas are now required post-Brexit—Skilled Worker visa from €922
- Romanians can use UK Immigration: ID Check app—no VAC visit needed for visas
- Romanian ID cards are no longer accepted—passport required for UK travel
- EU Settlement Scheme holders retain full work rights
- Bucharest VAC (VFS Global) for non-EU residents requiring biometrics
For the latest official information on UK entry requirements, visit the gov.uk visa checker or the official ETA guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Romanian citizens need a visa for the UK in 2026?
Romanian citizens do not need a visa for short visits up to 6 months. However, they must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) costing €19 before travelling. The ETA is valid for 2 years and allows multiple visits. For work, study, or stays longer than 6 months, Romanians must apply for the appropriate visa. ETA enforcement is strict from 25 February 2026—without it, you cannot board transport to the UK.
Can Romanians work in the UK after Brexit?
Yes, Romanians can work in the UK but now need a work visa. Romanians with EU Settlement Scheme status (settled or pre-settled) retain full work rights. New arrivals must secure a job offer from a licensed UK sponsor and obtain a Skilled Worker visa, Health and Care Worker visa, or other work visa before they can be employed. The minimum salary threshold is £41,700 for most Skilled Worker roles.
How long can a Romanian stay in the UK?
Romanian citizens with an ETA can stay up to 6 months (180 days) per visit for tourism, family visits, or business meetings. There is no annual limit on visits, but frequent or extended stays may raise questions about whether you're genuinely visiting or effectively living in the UK. Romanians with EU Settlement Scheme status can stay indefinitely. Work or student visas have their own validity periods.
What is the UK working visa for Romanian citizens?
The main UK working visa for Romanian citizens is the Skilled Worker visa, costing €922-€1,821 depending on duration. It requires a job offer from a UK employer with a sponsor licence, a minimum salary of £41,700, and English language ability at B1 level. Alternatives include the Health and Care Worker visa (€364-€707, IHS exempt), Seasonal Worker visa (€382), and potentially the Youth Mobility Scheme for those aged 18-30.
Can I use my Romanian ID card to travel to the UK?
No, Romanian national ID cards (buletin de identitate) are no longer accepted for UK travel since October 2021. You must travel with a valid Romanian passport. The only exception is for EU Settlement Scheme holders who registered with their ID card before the deadline—they may continue using it until it expires, but a passport is strongly recommended. Apply for an ETA linked to your passport.
What are the UK entry requirements for Romanian citizens?
Romanian citizens need: (1) a valid Romanian passport (ID cards no longer accepted), (2) an approved ETA (€19), (3) evidence of being a genuine visitor (return ticket, accommodation, funds). At the border, you may be asked about your travel plans. For work, study, or longer stays, you need the appropriate visa. EU Settlement Scheme holders only need to prove their status.
How do I apply for a UK visa from Romania?
For visits, apply for an ETA via the UK ETA app—scan your passport, take a selfie, pay €19. For work/study/family visas, complete the online application at gov.uk, pay the fee, then use the UK Immigration: ID Check app to submit biometrics from home (no VAC visit needed for Romanian citizens). Non-EU nationals in Romania must book a biometrics appointment at the VFS Global centre in Bucharest.
What is the difference between the UK ETA app and UK Immigration: ID Check app?
The UK ETA app is for applying for an Electronic Travel Authorisation—used by Romanian citizens for short visits (tourism, family, business) up to 6 months. The UK Immigration: ID Check app is for submitting biometrics when applying for visas (work, study, family visas). Romanians use the ETA app for visits and the ID Check app when they need an actual visa for longer stays or work purposes.