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Travel Advisory August 15, 2024
Romania - level 1: exercise normal precautions.
Reissued after periodic review without changes. Exercise normal precautions in Romania.
Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Romania.
If you decide to travel to Romania:
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook and X/Twitter .
- Review the Country Security Report for Romania.
- Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
- U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
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Quick Facts
Three months beyond departure date.
1 page per stamp.
Not required for stays under 90 days.
Amounts over 10,000 Euros or equivalent must be declared.
Embassies and Consulates
U.S. Embassy Romania
4-6 Liviu Librescu Blvd. District 1 Bucharest, Romania Telephone: (+40) 21 200-3300, (+40) 21 270-6000 Fax: (+40) 21 200-3578 Email: [email protected]
Destination Description
Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.
Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements
- You must have a U.S. passport that is valid for at least three months beyond your departure date from Romania .
- With a valid U.S. passport book, U.S. citizens can stay up to 90 days in the Schengen area for tourism or business during any 180-day period. You must wait an additional 90 days before applying to re-enter the Schengen area.
- Departing Romania and then attempting to re-enter Romania does not “restart the clock.” U.S. citizens who depart Romania and return after spending less than 90 days in the Schengen will be admitted for the remainder of their 90-day stay. U.S. citizens attempting to re-enter Romania after having already spent 90 days in Romania the Schengen area may be denied re-entry to Romania.
- U.S. citizens who wish to stay longer than 90 days must obtain an extension (resident permit) from the Romanian Immigration Inspectorate .
- U.S. citizens traveling to Romania should also consult the CDC’s Romania website for immunization and other health information.
- U.S.-Romanian dual nationals should consult the Romanian Border Police website for information on exit requirements.
- If you have a temporary or permanent Romanian residence permit, be ready to present it upon request from local competent authorities.
Visit the Embassy of ROMANIA website for the most current visa information.
Traveling Through Europe : If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement.
- Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay if you plan on transiting a Schengen country review our U.S. Travelers in Europe page .
- You will need sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket .
- For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the Schengen Visa page.
- The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Romania.
Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.
Safety and Security
Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:
- High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
- Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
- Places of worship
- Shopping malls and markets
- Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)
For more information, see our Terrorism page.
Crime: Reported types of crime include:
- Robbery, pick pocketing, internet scams, and credit card fraud are the most commonly reported crimes.
- Organized groups of criminals, sometimes including minors, operate in train stations, trains, subways, and busses.
- Money exchange schemes often involve individuals posing as plainclothes policemen who approach you, flash a badge, and ask for your passport and wallet. Insist on the presence of a uniformed police officer and request that any issues be resolved at the police station.
- If traveling on an overnight train, travel with a companion and in the highest class available.
- Do not leave your personal belongings unattended; stow them securely out of sight.
- Use ATMs located inside banks. You should check ATM machines for any evidence of tampering before use.
- Be extra cautious of your surroundings if using an internet café.
Be cautious about entering into contracts with Romanian businesses and/or organizations without legal assistance. The Romanian legal system is difficult for foreigners to navigate, making the assistance of a local attorney nearly essential.
International Financial Scams: See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information.
Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Romania. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:
- Romance/Online dating
- Money transfers
- Grandparent/Relative targeting
- Lotteries
- Bank overpayments
Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of crime are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. Report crimes to the local police at 112 and contact the embassy at (+40) 21 270-6000. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.
See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .
We can:
- Help you find medical care
- Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
- Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
- Provide information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
- Provide a list of local attorneys
- Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
- Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
- Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
- Replace a stolen or lost passport
Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.
Tourism: The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules [with regards to best practices and safety inspections] are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance .
- Romania is situated in a seismically active region and has a history of devastating earthquakes, with the greatest risk in Bucharest.
- Avoid contact with stray dogs. You may consult the CDC's Romania website for rabies immunization and other health information.
Local Laws & Special Circumstances
Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.
Be aware that recreational drug possession is not allowed in Romania, regardless of type or quantity. The penalty for possession of drugs for personal use can be imprisonment of up to three years.
Romania has strict regulations on importing/exporting firearms, other weapons, drugs, antiquities, local currency and gold or gold jewelry. Contact the Romanian Customs Office for specific information regarding customs requirements.
Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.
Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.
Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Although counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, they may still be illegal according to local laws. You may also pay fines or have to give them up if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.
Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:
- Faith-Based Travel Information
- International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
- Human Rights Report – see country reports
- Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
- Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad
LGBTQI+ Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTQI+ events in Romania. The annual gay pride parades in Bucharest have been the scene of violent protests in past years, though this has been less common recently.
See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.
Travelers with Disabilities: The law in Romania prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual or mental disabilities, and the law is enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States. The most common types of accessibility may include accessible facilities, information, and communication/access to services/ease of movement or access. Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure. There is a significant difference between the large cities and the rest of the country.
Availability of rental, repair, replacement parts for aids/equipment/devices, or service providers, such as sign language interpreters or personal assistants is very limited. Contact the Embassy for information on providers.
Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips .
Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers .
Medical care in Romania is generally not up to Western standards, and basic medical supplies are limited, especially outside major cities. Some medical providers that meet Western quality standards are available in Bucharest and other cities but can be difficult to identify and locate.
Hospitals and doctors often require payment “up front” prior to service or admission. Credit card payment is not always available. Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment. Travelers seeking medical treatment should therefore choose their provider carefully.
Psychological and psychiatric services are limited outside of the larger cities, with hospital-based care only available through government institutions.
Most prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications are available in Romania but are often sold under different names. A list of approved medicines available in Romania can be found on the website of the Romanian National Agency for Medicines and Medical Devices .
Ambulance services are not present throughout the country and are unreliable in some areas except in or around major cities.
We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.
Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.
We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Romanian National Agency for Medicines and Medical Devices to ensure the medication is legal in Romania.
Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Further health information:
- World Health Organization
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Air Quality: Air pollution is a significant problem in several major cities in Romania. Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you and consult your doctor before traveling if necessary. Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.
The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
Travel and Transportation
Road Conditions and Safety: Though Romanian traffic laws are very strict, road accidents are a real threat in Romania. According to the European Commission, Romania has the highest per-vehicle rate of road fatalities of any country in the EU.
While major streets in larger cities and major inter-city roads are generally in fair to good condition, many secondary roads are poor quality unpaved, poorly lit, narrow, and lacking marked lanes.
- Mountain roads are dangerous when wet or covered with snow or ice. Snow removal is intermittent.
- Mountainous areas can be subject to torrential rains and flash floods, especially in the spring and summer.
- Streets and sidewalks are often icy and hazardous during winter.
- It is common for pedestrians, animals, cyclists, and horse-drawn carts to share a road with motor vehicles, especially in rural areas.
- Parked vehicles often block sidewalks, forcing pedestrians to walk in the streets.
- Cross only at crosswalks and exercise vigilance as crosswalks are generally poorly marked.
- Although emergency services and road assistance services exist, it is advisable to carry spare tires, fuel and tools. The law requires motorists to carry a first aid kit, fire extinguisher and reflective triangles. This obligation has been eliminated for motorcycles and mopeds.
Traffic Laws: Romanian traffic laws are very strict.
- The traffic police can confiscate a driver's license or permit for 1-3 months and request payment of fines at the time of the infraction.
- Police are required to give all drivers involved in an accident a breathalyzer test on the scene.
- Refusal to take a breathalyzer test may result in criminal penalties regardless of whether or not alcohol was involved.
- Wearing a seat belt is mandatory.
- Children under 12 years of age may not be transported in the front seat.
- Use of mobile phones while driving is banned, with exception of hands free systems.
- The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in death or injury of a person must immediately call the emergency number 112, and must not move the vehicle, alter or leave the scene of the accident.
- In the case of an accident that only caused damage to the vehicles, drivers must move the vehicles to the side of the road, signaling their presence, and report the accident to the police or exchange insurance information and fill out an amicable accident report.
Use of U.S. state issued drivers’ licenses (DL) is not sufficient to operate motor vehicles in Romania. U.S. citizens arriving in Romania for stays up to 90 days may use their U.S. state drivers’ licenses only when accompanied by an International Driving Permit . Most rental car companies require international driving permits when renting a car to a U.S. driver’s license holder.
For current traffic regulations and speed limits in Romania please visit the website of the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs .
If entering Romania by vehicle you must purchase a road tax badge, “rovinieta”, at the border crossing point. Proof of insurance and a car registration document are required. Drivers of vehicles registered abroad who are not in possession of a valid international insurance document must buy short-term insurance at the border.
Public Transportation: Public transportation in Romania is inexpensive and reliable. Inner city travel options include a variety of buses, trams, trolleybuses, and “maxitaxis” (private vans operating as shared taxis).
- You can purchase bus or tram tickets at street kiosks before boarding and validate the ticket once aboard.
- For “maxitaxis” you may buy a ticket directly from the driver.
For additional travel information
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
- See the State Department’s travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories .
- Follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") and Facebook .
- See traveling safely abroad for useful travel tips.
Romania was cited in the State Department’s 2022 Annual Report to Congress on International Child Abduction for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Romania . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.
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- Travel Tips
Where To Find The Travel Document Number On A Passport
Published: November 1, 2023
Modified: December 28, 2023
by Rose Fischer
- Plan Your Trip
Introduction
When it comes to international travel, one essential document that you should always carry with you is your passport. Your passport serves as your identification and proof of citizenship, allowing you to enter and exit countries around the world. While most people are familiar with basic passport information such as the expiration date and personal details, there is one crucial piece of information that often goes unnoticed – the Travel Document Number.
The Travel Document Number, also known as the Passport Number, is a unique alphanumeric code assigned to each individual’s passport. It acts as a unique identifier for your travel document and helps authorities track and verify your passport records. It is important to have this number readily available, as it may be required when booking flights, applying for visas, or filling out immigration forms.
Many travelers find themselves wondering where exactly they can locate the Travel Document Number on their passport. In this article, we will guide you through the process of finding this crucial piece of information. Whether you are a seasoned globetrotter or a first-time traveler, understanding the location of the Travel Document Number on a passport is essential for a hassle-free journey.
Understanding the Travel Document Number
The Travel Document Number serves as a unique identifier for your passport and is crucial for various travel-related tasks. It typically consists of a combination of alphanumeric characters and is different for each individual passport. Understanding the significance of this number can help you navigate the complexities of international travel more easily.
One common misconception is that the Travel Document Number is the same as the passport number. While it is true that the passport number is a part of the Travel Document Number, the latter also includes additional details such as the country code and check digit. These extra elements ensure the uniqueness and validity of the Travel Document Number.
Having an accurate and valid Travel Document Number is important for various reasons:
- Flight Bookings: When booking international flights, airlines often require you to provide your Travel Document Number. This allows them to verify your passport and ensure that the information matches your booking.
- Visa Applications: When applying for a visa, you will typically need to include your Travel Document Number in the application. This helps immigration authorities process your visa request and link it to your passport.
- Immigration Forms: Whether you are entering or leaving a country, you may be required to fill out immigration forms that ask for your Travel Document Number. Providing this information accurately is crucial for a smooth immigration process.
- Lost or Stolen Passport: If your passport is lost or stolen, having a record of your Travel Document Number can expedite the process of reporting it and applying for a new passport.
By understanding the importance of the Travel Document Number, you can ensure that you have this information readily available for your travel-related tasks. Now, let’s explore where exactly you can find the Travel Document Number on your passport.
Location of the Travel Document Number on a Passport
Locating the Travel Document Number on your passport is relatively straightforward once you know where to look. On most passports, including those issued by the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia, the Travel Document Number can be found on the personal information page.
The personal information page is typically located at the very beginning of your passport and contains details such as your full name, date of birth, and passport expiration date. The Travel Document Number is usually printed in a separate field or section on this page, clearly labeled as “Passport Number” or “Travel Document Number.”
In most cases, the Travel Document Number is a nine-digit alphanumeric code. For example, it may look like “C12345678” or “123456789.” The precise format and placement of the Travel Document Number may vary slightly depending on the country that issued your passport.
It is important to note that the arrangement of information on passports may differ, so be sure to carefully check the personal information page to locate the Travel Document Number. If you have trouble finding it, refer to the instructions or guidance provided by your passport issuing authority.
Once you have located your Travel Document Number, it is advisable to take a note of it or make a digital copy for easy reference during your travels. This will help you avoid any confusion or delays when filling out travel forms or providing your passport information when needed.
Now that we know where to find the Travel Document Number on a passport, let’s explore some additional places where you can find this important information.
Other Places to Look for the Travel Document Number
While the personal information page is the most common place to find the Travel Document Number on a passport, there are a few other locations where this information may be printed. It’s always helpful to be aware of these alternative locations in case you encounter any issues or if your passport follows a different format.
1. Visa Pages: Some passports may have the Travel Document Number printed on visa pages. These pages are typically found towards the end of the passport and contain stickers or stamps from different countries you have visited. While not all passports have this feature, it’s worth checking the visa pages to see if your Travel Document Number is included.
2. Endorsement Page: In some cases, particularly for older passport versions, the Travel Document Number may be printed on an endorsement page. This page often contains important notes, observations, or changes made to your passport, and it is usually located at the back of the passport booklet.
3. Biometric Data Page: In passports that contain biometric information, such as a digital photo and fingerprints, the Travel Document Number may also be printed on the biometric data page. This page usually follows the personal information page and includes additional security features.
Remember, these additional locations are not as common as the personal information page, but it’s worth checking them as a backup option. If you still cannot find your Travel Document Number or have any doubts, it is recommended to contact your passport issuing authority for further guidance and clarification.
By familiarizing yourself with the various places where the Travel Document Number may be located, you can ensure that you have all the necessary information easily accessible for a seamless travel experience.
Locating the Travel Document Number on your passport is an essential task for any traveler. This unique alphanumeric code serves as a crucial identifier for your passport and is required for various travel-related activities, including booking flights, applying for visas, and completing immigration forms.
By understanding the significance of the Travel Document Number and knowing where to find it on your passport, you can save time and avoid any potential delays or complications during your travels. The most common location for the Travel Document Number is on the personal information page of your passport, along with other identifying details such as your name and expiration date.
It is important to note that passport designs can vary, and there may be alternative locations where the Travel Document Number is printed. These can include visa pages, endorsement pages, or even the biometric data page if your passport contains biometric information.
Regardless of where the Travel Document Number is located, it is advisable to make a note of it or keep a digital copy for easy reference. This will ensure that you have the necessary information readily available whenever it is required.
In conclusion, being aware of the importance and location of the Travel Document Number on your passport is a vital aspect of international travel preparation. By familiarizing yourself with this information, you can navigate the various travel processes with confidence and enjoy a smooth and hassle-free journey.
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