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Romania’s Visa and Residency Policies for Ghanaians

Romania’s Visa and Residency Policies for Ghanaians

10 Feb 2025


As Ghanaian nationals increasingly explore opportunities in Europe for work, study, and residence, Romania has emerged as a viable destination due to its growing economy and relatively affordable cost of living. However, understanding Romania’s visa and residency policies is crucial for a smooth transition if you want to settle there and send money to Ghana from Romania. This article provides a comprehensive guide on Romania’s visa and residency policies for Ghanaians, covering visa types, application procedures, residency permits, and legal requirements.

Visa and Residency Policy of Romania for Ghanaians

Ghanaian nationals planning to travel to Romania must adhere to the country’s visa and residency policies, which are designed to regulate short-term and long-term stays. As Ghana is a non-EU country, its citizens are required to obtain a visa before entering Romania. The type of visa required depends on the purpose and duration of stay.
 

For short-term visits (up to 90 days within a 180-day period), Ghanaian travelers must apply for a Short-Stay Visa (Type C), which is commonly used for tourism, business, or family visits. Applicants must provide proof of accommodation, financial stability, and return travel arrangements. This visa does not grant the right to work in Romania.
 

For stays exceeding 90 days, Ghanaians must apply for a Long-Stay Visa (Type D), which is issued for specific purposes such as work, study, family reunification, or business. The approval of a long-stay visa is typically contingent upon securing necessary permits, such as a work authorization from a Romanian employer or an admission letter from a recognized educational institution.
 

Once in Romania, long-term visa holders must apply for a residency permit within 90 days of arrival to legally extend their stay. Temporary residency permits are issued for one year and can be renewed, while permanent residency is granted to individuals who have legally resided in the country for at least five consecutive years.
 

Understanding Romania’s visa and residency policies is crucial for Ghanaians seeking to visit, work, or settle in the country. Compliance with immigration laws ensures a smooth transition and prevents legal complications during their stay. Further, by complying with these regulations and requirements, you can safely make every money transfer to Ghana from Romania if you settle and start earning there.

 

Visa Requirements for Ghanaians

Ghanaian citizens need a visa to enter Romania for any purpose. The type of visa required depends on the purpose and duration of stay. Romania issues the following categories of visas:
 

A. Short-Stay Visa (Type C)

This visa is suitable for Ghanaians planning to visit Romania for tourism, business, short-term studies, or family visits, with a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period.
 

Requirements

  • Valid Ghanaian passport (minimum six months validity beyond intended stay)
  • Completed visa application form
  • Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter from a Romanian resident)
  • Travel itinerary and return flight ticket
  • Proof of financial means (bank statements or sponsorship letter)
  • Travel insurance covering at least €30,000
  • Visa fee payment receipt

Processing Time

The typical processing time is 10-15 working days fir a Type C visa, but it can vary based on individual cases and application volumes.
 

B. Long-Stay Visa (Type D)

For Ghanaians seeking to stay in Romania for more than 90 days, a long-stay visa is required. This is usually granted for purposes such as work, study, family reunification, or business.
 

Types of Long-Stay Visas

  • Work Visa: A work permit from a Romanian employer is required before application.
  • Study Visa: Requires admission into a Romanian educational institution.
  • Family Reunification Visa: This is for those joining family members legally residing in Romania.
  • Business Visa: This is for entrepreneurs planning to invest or start a business in Romania.

Requirements

  • Specific documents based on the type of visa (e.g., employment contract for a work visa, university acceptance letter for a study visa)
  • Proof of sufficient funds for the intended stay
  • Criminal record certificate from Ghanaian authorities
  • Medical certificate confirming good health

Residency Permits for Ghanaians in Romania

Once a Ghanaian national enters Romania with a long-stay visa, they must apply for a residency permit to legally extend their stay beyond 90 days. These permits also help when you send money to Ghana online from Romania or using any other traditional but legal method for remittances. Let’s glance at residency permits in Ghana and what are their processing times.

 

A. Temporary Residency Permit

Issued for up to one year (renewable) based on the purpose of stay (work, study, family reunification, business, etc.).

 

Application Requirements

  • Valid passport and Romanian visa
  • Application form submitted to the Romanian Immigration Office
  • Proof of legal income (employment contract, bank statements, scholarship proof, etc.)
  • Proof of accommodation in Romania
  • Health insurance coverage

Processing Time

The typical processing time for a temporary residency permit application is 30 to 60 days after submission, which can vary based on different cases.
 

B. Permanent Residency Permit

Ghanaians who have legally resided in Romania for at least five consecutive years on a temporary residency permit can apply for permanent residency.
 

Requirements:

  • Proof of continuous legal residence in Romania for five years
  • Sufficient financial resources to support oneself
  • Romanian language proficiency
  • Clean criminal record
  • Health insurance

Once granted, a permanent residency permit allows indefinite stay without the need for renewal, offering similar rights to Romanian citizens, except for voting and holding public office.

Work and Business Opportunities for Ghanaians

Ghanaians looking to work in Romania need a work permit before applying for a work visa. Romanian employers must first prove that no EU/EEA candidate is available for the job before hiring a non-EU national.
 

A. Work Permits

  • Skilled Workers: Romania encourages skilled professionals in IT, engineering, healthcare, and construction to apply for work permits.
  • Unskilled Workers: Opportunities exist in agriculture, hospitality, and domestic work, though salaries may be lower.
  • Seasonal Work: Short-term employment opportunities exist in the farming and tourism industries.

B. Business and Investment Residency

Ghanaians interested in starting a business in Romania can apply for a business visa and, later, a residency permit for entrepreneurs.

 

Requirements for Business Residency:

  • Registration of a Romanian company
  • Investment in the local economy (minimum required capital varies)
  • Business plan approval by Romanian authorities
  • Proof of financial stability

Challenges and Considerations for Ghanaians in Romania

While Romania offers numerous opportunities, Ghanaian migrants should be aware of the following challenges:

 

  • Language Barrier: Romanian is the primary language for official and daily communication.
  • Cultural Adaptation: Adjusting to Romanian customs and way of life can take time.
  • Strict Immigration Policies: Non-compliance with visa or residency regulations can result in fines or deportation.
  • Employment Limitations: Certain jobs require Romanian or EU citizenship, limiting opportunities for non-EU migrants.

Important Considerations for Ghanaian Expats in Romania

You must apply for the visa at the Romanian Embassy or Consulate in Ghana. Not to worry; processing times will vary, so if you have everything in place before you begin your application, you must be truthful and accurate in all your work.

 

Final Touch Points for Ghanaians in Romania

Romania presents a promising destination for Ghanaians seeking work, study, or long-term residence in Europe. By understanding the visa application process, residency requirements, and employment opportunities, Ghanaians can successfully navigate the Romanian immigration system. While challenges such as language and cultural differences exist, proper planning and compliance with legal regulations can ensure a smooth and rewarding experience in Romania.

 

Further, once you settle there and start earning if you have moved to Romania for work, the next big concern will be sending money home with the most benefits. Making an online money transfer to Ghana from Romania via trusted companies like ACE Money Transfer enables you to add value to your hard-earned money abroad.

FAQs

What sort of paperwork is required for a visa to Romania? 

Usually you will need a passport, a visa application form, passport size photos, proof of funds and travel itinerary and travel insurance.

Can I send money back home on a tourist visa?

Yes, it is allowed, but there will be some limitations and restrictions to it such as amount you can send in one transfer.

How about working in Romania with a Schengen visa? 

A Schengen visa is for short term stays and does not allow work. A residential permit along with a work permit is required if you don't want any legal complications.

Having a Schengen visa, can I apply to study in Romania? 

Long term studies, I would say, is not a Schengen visa. You have to get a student visa, which means you have to have a letter of welcome from a Romanian university.

Can I bring my family to Romania with me on a residency permit? 

Yes, you can bring your family members to Romania if they meet the specific requirements for family reunification. This usually involves providing proof of your relationship and financial support.


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