Chinese Visa Policy and Requirements for Citizens of Romania

1. Visa-Free Policy for Romanian Citizens

Effective November 30, 2024, through December 31, 2025, Romania is among 38 countries eligible for China’s unilateral visa-free policy. Romanian citizens holding valid ordinary passports can enter mainland China for tourism, business, visiting relatives/friends, cultural exchanges, or transit without a visa, with a maximum stay of 30 days per visit. This policy simplifies travel for short-term stays, aligning with China’s efforts to enhance international connectivity.

Key Details:

 

  • Eligibility: Ordinary passports (valid for the duration of stay).
  • Exclusions: Work, study, or journalistic activities require pre-approved visas.
  • Transit: 30-day visa-free transit applies to all eligible ports (air, land, sea).
  • No Advance Application: No need to apply via Chinese embassies; entry granted at border with valid passport.

2. Entry Requirements

Mandatory Documents:

 

  • Passport: Valid for the intended stay (typically 6+ months beyond entry date).
  • Travel Proof (Recommended):
    • Flight itinerary (round-trip or onward ticket).
    • Hotel bookings or invitation letters (to verify purpose of stay).
    • Proof of financial means (e.g., bank statements) for long stays.

Border Inspection:

 

  • Chinese authorities may verify travel purpose (e.g., tourism/business) and ensure compliance with stay limits.
  • Non-compliance (e.g., overstaying or unauthorized activities) may result in fines or deportation.

3. Visa-Free Stay Conditions

 

  • Duration: 30 days from entry (calculated as consecutive natural days).
  • Multiple Entries: Allowed, with no restrictions on visit frequency (subject to border approval).
  • Extension: Stays exceeding 30 days require a pre-arranged visa (e.g., work/study) or applying for a stay permit locally.

4. Special Cases & Exceptions

 

  • Diplomatic/Public Affairs Passports: Holders of Romanian passports endorsed “for public affairs” enjoy visa-free entry under bilateral agreements.
  • Health Requirements:
    • COVID-19: No quarantine (as of 2025), but check health code requirements.
    • Other: No mandatory vaccinations unless specified by health authorities.
  • Customs: Declare cash over CNY 20,000 or equivalent; prohibited items include wildlife products.

5. Chinese Embassy/Consulate Information in Romania

Embassy in Bucharest

 

  • Address: No. 2, Nordului Street, Sector 1, Bucharest.
  • Website: http://ro.china-embassy.gov.cn
  • Services: Visa applications for non-visa-free categories (work, study, etc.).

Consulate in Constanța

 

  • Address: Str. Vasile Parvan nr. 11-13, Constanța.
  • Role: Supports visa services for regional applicants.

6. Non-Visa-Free Scenarios (e.g., Work/Study)

 

For stays exceeding 30 days or activities like work/study:

 

  1. Apply in Advance: Submit documents (employment license, admission letter) via the Chinese Embassy in Bucharest.
  2. Processing Time: 4–5 business days (standard); express options available.
  3. Fees: Vary by visa type (e.g., work visa fees listed in local currency at embassies).

7. Travel Advice for Romanian Citizens

 

  • Safety: Exercise caution due to strict national security laws; avoid political or sensitive activities.
  • Local Laws: Respect regulations on photography, internet use, and public behavior.
  • Transit Ports: Familiarize with 240-hour transit rules (if applicable to connecting flights).

8. Reciprocal Visa Policies (China to Romania)

 

Romania does not offer visa-free entry for Chinese citizens. Chinese travelers to Romania require a Schengen visa (for short stays) or a national visa (for long-term stays), depending on purpose. Apply via the Romanian Embassy in Beijing or consulates in major cities.

9. Resources & Contact

 

Key Notes

 

  • Policy Validity: Visa-free status applies until December 31, 2025; check extensions via official sources.
  • Documentation: Always carry passport and travel proof (e.g., hotel bookings) for border checks.
  • Updates: Verify changes with the Chinese Embassy in Romania or via 领事直通车.