Canada Visa RequirementsFor Romania passport holders
Romanian passport holders must obtain a Canadian Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before flying to Canada. The eTA costs CAD 7, is applied for online in minutes, and is linked to your passport for 5 years. It allows stays up to 6 months per visit.
Romania passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to Canada.
Apply for the eTA online on the official Government of Canada website (canada.ca/eTA). The fee is CAD 7, payable by credit or debit card. You need a valid Romanian passport, an email address, and a credit card. Processing is usually within minutes, though in some cases it can take a few days. The eTA is electronically linked to your passport and valid for 5 years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. Apply before booking flights.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
For Your Visa Application
Valid Romanian Passport
Must be valid for the duration of the intended stay. The eTA is linked to the passport number used during application.
Email Address
Needed to receive eTA approval notice.
Credit or Debit Card
Required to pay the CAD 7 eTA application fee online.
Required at Entry
eTA Approval Email
Keep the eTA approval email; the eTA is linked electronically to your passport and checked at check-in.
Return or Onward Ticket
Evidence of planned departure from Canada.
Proof of Sufficient Funds
Bank statements, credit cards, or cash showing ability to support yourself during the stay.
Accommodation Details
Hotel booking, rental confirmation, or invitation from a host in Canada.
Current Travel Situation
Romania to Canada: What You Need to Know
Romania is one of the countries whose citizens need an eTA (not a full visa) to visit Canada by air for tourism or business. The eTA program was introduced to streamline entry for low-risk travelers. Note that the eTA is required for air travel only; if entering by land from the USA, different rules apply. Canada is a popular destination for Romanian travelers visiting family or for tourism.
How to Get There
Consider combining Canada with the USA on the same trip. Toronto and Niagara Falls are just across from Buffalo, NY. Vancouver is close to Seattle. For transatlantic routes from Bucharest, Air Canada, Wizz Air (via other hubs), and TAROM connect to Canadian cities.
Money & Banking
Romania uses the Romanian Leu (RON), Canada uses the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Exchange currency at a Bucharest exchange office before departure or withdraw CAD from ATMs on arrival in Canada. Revolut and Wise are popular options for Romanians traveling to Canada, offering good CAD exchange rates with low fees. Credit and debit cards are universally accepted in Canada. Notify your bank before travel.
Practical Tips
Canada is best explored by region. Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Quebec City are major highlights. Renting a car is recommended outside major cities. Summers are warm and sunny; winters are very cold. The Canadian dollar (CAD) is the local currency. Tipping 15-20% is standard in restaurants. A Visitor Record confirming your allowed stay will be issued at the border; the default is 6 months unless the officer specifies otherwise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Romanian citizens need a visa for Canada?
Romanian citizens do not need a full visa but must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before flying to Canada. The eTA is not the same as a visa; it is a simpler electronic authorization costing CAD 7.
How do I apply for the Canadian eTA as a Romanian?
Apply online at canada.ca/eTA. You need your Romanian passport, email address, and credit or debit card for the CAD 7 fee. Most applications are approved within minutes.
How long can Romanians stay in Canada?
The eTA allows stays of up to 6 months per visit. The border officer will determine the exact length at entry and stamp your passport accordingly.
How long is the Canadian eTA valid?
The eTA is valid for 5 years from the date of issue, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. You can make multiple trips to Canada during this period.
Is the eTA required for land entry into Canada from the USA?
No. The eTA is required only when flying to Canada. If entering by land from the USA, Romanian citizens currently need a visa unless they hold a valid US visa or green card.
Can I work or study in Canada on an eTA?
No. The eTA is for short visits only (tourism, visiting family, some business activities). For working or studying you need separate authorization such as a work or study permit.
Are there direct flights from Romania to Canada?
There are no direct flights from Romania to Canada. Common connections are via London Heathrow, Frankfurt, Amsterdam, or Reykjavik (Icelandair). Air Canada, British Airways, Lufthansa, and KLM serve this route.
What happens at Canadian customs if I have an eTA?
At Canadian airports, you will use an automated kiosk or speak with a border officer. You may be asked about the purpose of your visit, accommodation, and finances. The officer will decide the length of your authorized stay.