How to Stay Legally in Romania as an International Student (Updated October 2025)

21/10/2023 ahmad mahameed غير مصنف 0

Studying in Romania can be an inspiring experience — but it’s essential to stay legally throughout your academic journey.
Here’s the 2025 official-process guide for getting and keeping a student residence permit (“permis de ședere”).

🎓 Step 1 – Get Accepted by a Romanian University

Before applying for a visa or residence permit, gain admission to an accredited Romanian university or higher education institution.
You’ll receive an Acceptance Letter from the Ministry of Education — a key requirement for your visa.

🛂 Step 2 – Apply for a Long-Stay Visa for Studies (Type D/SD)

If you are a non-EU / non-EEA / non-Swiss citizen, apply for the long-stay study visa (Type D/SD) at the Romanian Embassy or Consulate in your country.

Required documents

  • Letter of Acceptance from the Ministry of Education
  • Proof of tuition payment (if applicable)
  • Proof of financial means: minimum € 5,000
  • Proof of accommodation in Romania
  • Valid medical insurance
  • Criminal-record certificate
  • Passport + photos

✅ Processing time: up to 30 days  ✅ Validity: 90 days

🏠 Step 3 – Apply for a Temporary Residence Permit

After arrival, apply for a temporary residence permit for studies at your local branch of the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI).

📅 Apply at least 30 days before your visa or right of stay expires.

You’ll need

  • Completed application form – online
  • letter of acceptance
  • Passport
  • Last entry to Romania stamp – in the passport
  • study visa
  • Student or Enrollment certificate
  • Proof of accommodation – or rental contract
  • Financial proof ( bank statement from Romanian bank ): € 5,000
  • Medical certificate – recent from a Romanian doctor
  • Proof of fee payment ( 2 fees ass follow )

💰 Fees (October 2025)

TypeApprox. CostWhere to Pay
Long-stay visa€ 120 / ≈ 611 RONEmbassy / Consulate
Residence-permit issuance€ 50 / ≈ 265 RONIGI / online portal

📅 Validity & Renewal

The permit is valid for one academic year and renewable annually until graduation.
Renew at least 30 days before it expires with new proof of enrollment, insurance, and financial means.

👩‍🎓 EU / EEA / Swiss Students

EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens don’t need a visa, but must register residence with IGI and obtain a residence certificate if staying > 90 days.

💼 Working While Studying

With a valid study-residence permit, you may work part-time (up to 4 hours daily) without a separate work permit.
To work full-time, apply to change your residence purpose to “work.”

🎓 After Graduation – Extending Your Stay

Graduates can extend their stay for up to 9 months to:

  • Look for a job, or
  • Start a business.

Once employed, change your residence permit from study to work.

📍 Where to Apply

✅ Quick Checklist

☑ Letter of Acceptance
☑ Visa Type D/SD
☑ Proof of Funds ≥ € 5,000
☑ Health certificate
☑ Accommodation Proof
☑ Apply to IGI within 90 days
☑ Renew annually before expiry

⚠️ Important Notice

Information verified October 2025 with the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) and Romanian Ministry of Education.
Always confirm current requirements and fees with your local IGI office or university’s international department.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1️⃣ How long does it take to get the residence permit?
Normally 30 days after submitting all documents to IGI, but delays can occur in large cities.

2️⃣ Can I bring my family to Romania?
Yes. If you hold a valid residence permit, your spouse and minor children may apply for family reunification once you can prove sufficient income and housing.

3️⃣ What if I change universities?
You must notify IGI and submit a new enrollment certificate within 15 days. Your permit remains valid as long as you continue full-time studies in Romania.

4️⃣ Can I travel to other EU countries with my Romanian permit?
Yes, you can travel short-term (up to 90 days in any 180-day period) within the Schengen Area.

5️⃣ Do I need to carry my permit at all times?
Yes. Your residence permit acts as your legal ID in Romania — keep it with you or a photocopy in public spaces.

6️⃣ Can I extend my visa instead of applying for a residence permit?
No. The long-stay visa cannot be extended. You must apply for a residence permit before the visa expires to stay legally.

✳️ Final Tip

Start gathering your documents early, especially your financial proof (€ 5,000), since it’s the most common sources of delay.
Keeping copies of all submissions will make renewal much easier.

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