travel to romania from usa covid

Last updated: 11.04.2022

Romania covid-19 travel restrictions & entry rules.

If you’re looking for up to date info on Romania's Covid-19 travel restrictions and entry requirements due to the pandemic - this article is for you. Find out about entry rules for tourists, vaccination, quarantine and test requirements, public safety measures and all things Covid-related to help you plan your visit in 2022.

Also - should you visit Romania during Covid-19? YES! What's are the best things to do or visit in these conditions? Read on! Important: in 2021 we had a VERY busy season during June - Sept when everyone decided to travel and infection numbers were low. Since all our tours are private and we received a lot of requests many short-notice bookings got declined due to guides and their colleagues being unavailable.

• we know travel during Covid-19 can be unpredictable but if you're planning to visit Romania in 2022 please consider booking your tours at least 7-10 days in advance or more to secure our guides' availability and give them time to prepare. If you need to cancel for 90% of our tours we only need 1-3 days advance notice to get a full refund

After the huge wave of Covid infections with the Omicron variant in Jan-Feb all over Europe, it seems the Coronavirus has become endemic and no longer as serious since everyone is either vaccinated or has developed immunity. Many countries all over Europe have lifted restrictions and no longer have travel requirements or checks in place.

The same is true for Romania: since 8.03 the state of alert has been lifted which means there are NO RESTRICTIONS that apply to foreign travellers wanting to visit Romania no matter where they come from. In fact, since 21.01 the colour-coded list of countries and travel restrictions that apply have been discontinued.

So travel and tourism in Romania is once again normal - hurray! Nevertheless, all our tours run with safety measures in place (cars are disinfected, guides weak masks in the car, etc.) as we want to protect everyone's health and continue welcoming tourists the safest conditions for everyone.

The pandemic hasn’t changed the beauty of our country. On the contrary, spending time outdoors going hiking, seeing the beautiful countryside of Transylvania and generally having an active holiday is the best – and safest – thing to do for our body and mind after so much time spent indoors!

Since 2017 when Romanian Friend was created our intention has always been to support small businesses and communities through responsible tourism. The past 2 years have been very challenging for everyone in the industry, with lots of people going out of business. So please consider booking tours with locals if you want to give back to the local economy, people and places you'll visit in Romania. We make sure all our tours use local products and services!

• Last update: 11.04.2022 - we’re going to keep this article updated so please check it regularly. And if you have any questions contact us – we’re happy to help!

Table of contents

1. Entry rules for foreign citizens into Romania

2. covid-19 public safety measures, 4. what to visit in romania during covid-19.

As of 8 March 2022 ALL foreign citizens are allowed to enter Romania for tourism and general purposes as the state of alert was lifted. No restrictions or checks apply.

Providing proof of vaccination, a certificate of recovery from COVID-19 or negative test results is no longer necessary, and travellers are not subject to quarantine anymore. No need to fill in a passenger locator form.

Put simply - Romania is open for tourism - so come visit!

Most restrictions have been lifted and all safety measures have now a "recommended" status

• wearing a mask is NOT mandatory anymore (indoors or outdoors) but is recommended, especially indoors
• all businesses and public institutions can set their own rules regarding wearing masks - so check for those
• pubs, cafes and restaurants can work normally at maximum capacity
• Covid checks are NOT required to access public facilities
• tourist attractions such as castles and museums are open normally

Getting tested for Covid-19 in Romania is easy and simple. In every city there are private laboratories who do PCR tests (throat and/or nose swabs) and quick antigen tests (and issue a document for travel purposes). In most cases no appointment is required to get tested, you can just walk in. You can get the results over email or in a SMS in Romanian and/or English.

To find a Covid-19 test center use Google when in Romania (search for 'test Covid [city name]') or ask someone who speaks Romanian for help with finding the nearest testing centre. Call in advance to make sure they can take you and give you results within the time limit you need. You'll get results within as little as 12h and costs range from 20 - 50 Euro depending on how fast you need them.

Outdoor tours and trips are the best choices for tours and trips in Romania during Covid-19 since it's easier to maintain social distancing and there's a low risk of getting the virus. After spending a few months in lockdown, nothing feels more liberating than reconnecting with nature and exploring the great outdoors once again. Thankfully, Romania has some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in all of Europe, so there are lots of options to choose from.

You can go on nature and wildlife tours (Romania has the highest biodiversity in Europe), go hiking, or explore the Romanian countryside, with its peaceful traditional villages, most of which have had no confirmed Coronavirus cases. Check our Romania hiking guide for more info.

Romanian Adventures & Wildlife Tours

Since the Carpathian Mountains cover one-third of the country, tours and trip in nature are the easiest to go for. No matter if you start your adventure from the capital Bucharest or other major cities, you'll find lots of natural attractions around them, and dreamy landscapes are never more than a short drive away.

Ready to get started? Depending on where you land, here are our top picks:

• from Bucharest

The capital is always nice to visit and there are plenty of indoor (Palace of Parliament, Ceausescu’s Home, etc.) and outdoor (Village Museum, Cismigiu Garden, etc.) tourist attractions to choose from. Check our Bucharest city guide for more info.

From Bucharest, you can take head East to visit the Black Sea and the famous Danube Delta - the second-largest river delta in Europe and a UNESCO-protected biosphere . This natural gem is a birdwatcher's paradise (it's home to more than 300 species) and we recommend you spend at least 2-3 days in the area so you can go on special tours. Apart from the lakes, swamps, canals, and backwaters, you can also see sand dunes and forests with ancient oak trees.

2-Day Danube Delta & Birdwatching Tour from Bucharest

Start from: Bucharest

4-Day Danube Delta: Birds, Letea Village & Lakes [Group Trip]

Start from: Tulcea

If you're looking for more other tours and day trips from Bucharest we recommend hiking to the Bucegi Mountains, Cozia National Park, or the Iezer-Papusa Mountains. Visiting the famous Bran and Peles Castles is also possible.

• from Cluj-Napoca

Cluj-Napoca is Romania's largest city after Bucharest and one of the most important cultural centers. Once you've explored its medieval landmarks and architectural points of interest, you can enjoy the nearby natural attractions. Cluj is conveniently located to two of the best:

Apuseni Natural Park is just 100 km West from Cluj, and you can get there in about 2 ½ hours by car. Some of the unmissable attractions in Apuseni Natural Park include Bride Veil's Waterfall, Scarita Belioara natural reserve, and Cetățile Ponorului. There are more than 1800 caves here (Bear's Cave and Scarisoara Ice Cave are the two most popular ones) and if you're an adventurous soul, you can also try extreme activities like water rafting on Crisul Pietros or hiking in Poiana Ponor.

Tours & Day Trips in Cluj-Napoca

From Cluj, you can also head North to *Maramures*, whom many consider the most culturally representative Romanian region. Apart from having breathtaking natural landscapes (70% of Maramures is made of forests), this region also has unique traditional churches, 8 of which have been acknowledged by UNESCO. Maramures is one of Romania's more traditional regions, and once you come here, you'll be charmed by the simple way of life and the hospitality of the locals. True to its name, Coronavirus hasn't affected Maramures at all!

In June, the European Best Destinations Organization (EBD) included Sibiu on the list of safest places in Europe to visit after COVID-19. Founded in the 12th century, Sibiu has been under German influence for much of the medieval period, and you can see this in the architecture. Some of the most important attractions in Sibiu include Big Square (Piata Mare), the Brukenthal National Museum, the Bridge of Lies, and the ASTRA National Museum Complex.

After exploring Sibiu, you can go on a day trip to discover the traditional Transylvanian villages scattered around it. You'll see small wooden houses built on stone bases, hand-painted ceramics and icons painted on glass, and sample homemade culinary specialties. Or go visit the superb Corvin Castle!

Tours & Day Trips in Sibiu

From Sibiu, you can also get to the Transfagarasan Highway , a spectacular road that connects the South of Romanian with Transylvania, spans for 90km, and reaches an altitude of over 2,000 meters. The views are fantastic up here, and along it you can see other famous attractions such as Vidraru Lake and Balea Lake.

• from Brasov

The medieval town of Brasov is a gateway to Transylvania and one of the best starting points for day trips and wildlife tours. There are lots of options for outdoor activities available.

Tours & Day Trips in Brasov

You can go on hiking tours in Piatra Craiului or Bucegi Mountains, visit Râşnov Fortress or Bran Castle or go on wildlife watching tours to look for bears and other animals.

All our tour guides in strict compliance with the latest Covid-19 safety regulations. The cars they use are disinfected regularly and wearing a mask in the car is mandatory. Not mandatory when out in the mountains :)

If you're interested in organising a private trip or want more information please contact us -- we're happy to help!

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Romania enforces new travel measures over omicron concerns

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BUCHAREST, Romania (AP) — Romania on Friday introduced new travel restrictions and isolation measures for people entering the country as officials seek to avert another health care crisis following the emergence of the omicron variant of the coronavirus.

Romania, a European Union country of about 19 million, faced its deadliest period of the pandemic through October and November and has so far confirmed three cases of omicron, which is thought to be more contagious than the previous coronavirus variant.

All three of Romania’s omicron cases have been detected in people connected with a government repatriation flight from South Africa to Bucharest at the end of November. Several others who returned on that flight have since tested positive for COVID-19, and sequencing is being carried out, the health ministry said.

The new travel rules will be enforced from Friday until Jan. 8 and aim to curb transmission over the winter holiday period. They include proof of a negative COVID-19 test, quarantine for unvaccinated travelers — and depend on the epidemiological risk of the country they arrive from. From Dec. 20, passenger location forms will also be implemented to improve the traceability of infections.

But while the authorities hope the new travel measures will prevent a spike in infections, and curb the spread of omicron as many return home over the winter holidays, some internal restrictions have been eased.

Places such as shops, cafes, malls, and restaurants can now stay open until 10 p.m., an hour later, and people can enter without a “green certificate” but with proof of a negative COVID-19 test. Masks are no longer required in uncrowded open public places, and on key winter holidays — such as Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve — closing times for businesses are effectively scrapped.

Health minister Alexandru Rafila said after a government meeting this week that the authorities must give people hope that they can “live normally in this country” but that if infection rates rise above certain thresholds, measures will be reversed.

“This openness on the part of the government is due to the interest for life to return to normal in Romania,” Rafila said, but warned that the authorities “cannot ignore the dangers that follow.”

Dragos Zaharia, a primary care doctor at Bucharest’s Marius Nasta Institute of Pneumology who was on the front line during a bleak period in October and November when Romania had one of the highest coronavirus mortality rates in the world, says the relaxation measures are necessary but also “a risky game.”

“We are expecting a fifth wave. I am worried that things could get out of control again,” Zaharia told The Associated Press. “This equilibrium between restrictions and freedom is quite hard to achieve. But without relaxations, the population could become less compliant to future measures.”

Follow all AP stories on the pandemic at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic

Covid-19 travel: Romania adds US, Turkey to red list

Simona Fodor

Like this article? Share it with your friends!

The National Committee for Emergency Situations (CNSU) updated on August 12 the lists labeling the countries’ epidemiological risk.

The updated Red List now includes Israel, Montenegro, Turkey, United States, Puerto Rico, and Morocco, among others.

Netherlands, Malta, Kuwait, and Panama were moved to the Yellow List, alongside Estonia, Lithuania, Mexico, Finland, and others. Luxembourg and Oman are now on the Green List. 

The updated lists are available here . The lists are valid starting August 15, at 00:00.

The August 12 CNSU decision is available here .

The countries are grouped into three categories – red, yellow, and green- according to their COVID-19 incidence rate. The Red List includes countries and territories where the cumulated Covid-19 incidence rate of new cases over the past 14 days is higher than or equal to 3 per 1,000 inhabitants. The Yellow List includes countries and territories where the incidence rate is between 1.5 and 3 per 1,000 inhabitants, while the Green List covers countries where the rate is lower than or equal to 1.5 per 1,000 inhabitants.

Those who arrive from countries on the Yellow or Red lists but were fully vaccinated against Covid-19 at least ten days before arriving in Romania are exempt from the quarantine requirement. In the case of those arriving from countries on the Yellow List, if they show a negative PCR test carried out at most 72 hours before entering the country, they are also exempt from entering quarantine.

(Photo: Trazvan/ Dreamstime )

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Romania Travel Restrictions

Traveller's COVID-19 vaccination status

Travelling from Canada to Romania

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

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Can I travel to Romania from Canada?

Most visitors from Canada, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Romania.

Can I travel to Romania if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from Canada can enter Romania without restrictions.

Can I travel to Romania without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from Canada can enter Romania without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Romania?

Visitors from Canada are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Romania.

Can I travel to Romania without quarantine?

Travellers from Canada are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Romania?

Mask usage in Romania is not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Romania?

Restaurants in Romania are open. Bars in Romania are .

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COVID-19 international travel advisories

If you plan to visit the U.S., you do not need to be tested or vaccinated for COVID-19. U.S. citizens going abroad, check with the Department of State for travel advisories.

COVID-19 testing and vaccine rules for entering the U.S.

• As of May 12, 2023, noncitizen nonimmigrant visitors to the U.S.  arriving by air  or  arriving by land or sea  no longer need to show proof of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19. 
• As of June 12, 2022,  people entering the U.S. no longer need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test . 

U.S. citizens traveling to a country outside the U.S.

Find country-specific COVID-19 travel rules from the Department of State.

See the  CDC's COVID-19 guidance for safer international travel.

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Romania, Travel Advisory for Visitors

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• Travel Advisory

Last update:  April 19, 2024

Romania is safe and hospitable.   All visitors are welcome! There are no events or situations - such as diseases, distress or unrest - threatening the personal safety or well-being of visitors. We do hope you will enjoy your visit to Romania and that the following information will be of interest to you.

Travel to Romania given the Ukraine situation

• Traffic Delays and/or Restrictions // Road Closures
• Bucharest Taxi , avoid possible scams

Bucharest Public Transport

• Money Exchange / Leftover Romanian currency

Driving in Romania

• Feedback about tour operators / travel agencies.

The unfortunate situation in the Ukraine does not affect and does not threaten to destabilize Romania at all. Dynamics of inflation did not significantly affected prices, converted to Euro or US Dollars; hotel rates and price of restaurant meals are affordable.

Romania Traffic Restrictions / Road Closures

National Road DN 7 C (Drumul National 7 C) crossing the Fagaras Mountains Current Road Status:   Closed Scheduled days:   Monday - Sunday. Section affected:  Piscu Negru --- Balea Cascada (km 104 to km 131) Scheduled Dates:   Road will be closed, for winter, when bad weather/ dangerous driving conditions.

National Road DN 67 C (Drumul National 67 C) crossing the Parang Mountains Current Road Status:  Closed Scheduled days:   Monday - Sunday. Section affected:   Ranca - Obarsia Lotrului (km 34 to km 59) Scheduled Dates:   Road will be closed, for winter, when bad weather/ dangerous driving conditions.

Information on Road Conditions can also be obtained from the Romania Road Authority ( Compania Nationala de Administrare a Infrastructurii Rutiere - CNAIR) Telephone:   (+4) 021 264.33.33 ext. 4   or   0800 800.301 (local toll free) E-mail

Bucharest Taxi, avoid possible scam

If you run into a problem with any taxi in Bucharest - or if you are suspecting that you have met a dishonest driver - ask for a receipt and write down the vehicle's license plate #, if possible. Taxi tariffs can vary from company to company.

Typical Bucharest Taxi tariffs:

* Tariffs in U.S. Dollars estimated at an exchange rate of 4.50 Lei / Dollar.

The average cost of the taxi trip from Henri Coanda (Otopeni) Airport to downtown Bucharest is 80.00 Lei (US$ 18). To call a taxi visitors can use the kiosks available in the arrivals hall. Select the taxi company and get the confirmation ticket that shows taxi's number plate. Reliable taxi companies include   Cobalcescu,   Cristaxi,   and Speed Taxi. More information on transportation from/ to Bucharest Airport are available at RomaniaTourism Bucharest info section.

If you run into a problem with any taxi in Bucharest - or if you are suspecting that you have met a dishonest driver - ask for a receipt and, if possible, write down the vehicle's license plate #.

To file a Taxi complaint please contact:

Bucharest public transport system is safe, efficient and inexpensive . Feedback recently received from visitors to Bucharest indicates that their foreign issued credit cards have not been accepted/ transactions denied/ to pay the fare, onboard bus # 100 from Bucharest city centre to Bucharest Airport and, that Bucharest Transport Authority (STB) controllers they have encountered where rather obtuse and aloof. Most ticket kiosks attendants do not speak English or other foreign language.

Money Exchange / Lefover Romanian currency

Romania's currency (Lei) is not readily available abroad. If you do not wish to keep your leftover Romanian Lei (RON), please make sure that, before leaving Romania, you have converted them into the currency of your choice. To check the official exchange rates please visit the Website of Romania's National Bank .

Most major tourist attractions in Romania are easily accessible by public transportation but travel by car is perhaps the best way to discover Romania's charming villages and to reach attractions located in areas with limitted bus or train service.

In some areas of Romania, conditions of roads, the number of slow moving vehicles and even the level of adherence to traffic regulations and common road courtesies may be different from what you are familiar with in the USA or Canada.

Feedback from several foreign visitors have indicated that some Romanian drivers have a competitive driving style (improper passing / cutting into another car's path and tailgating flash of the headlamps are not uncommon).

While in North America flashing the headlamps may be considered rude, in Romania a quick flash of the headlamps is sufficient to get the car lead to move on the first lane of the (multi-lane) road.

In rural areas be ready to share the road with slow-moving vehicles, including horse-drawn wagons.

A number of roads are under construction. Signage and safety studs may be inferior to those used in North America.

The numerous photo opportunities offered by Romania's scenic countryside may make you to stop more often than planned and driving to your destination may take longer than expected.

However, as long as you will drive cautiously we believe that you will enjoy your driving vacation in Romania.

Map of Romania's roads condition

Map of road traffic intensity forecast (not real-time traffic info)

Feedback about tour operators / travel agencies

All Romanian Tour Operators, Travel Agencies and Freelance Guides must be licensed by the Romanian Ministry of Economy and Tourism. Be particularly cautious if: ~   the Website of a travel company or a freelance guide does not indicate a physical address, ~   hotel rates and prices for similar services are significantly lower then those offered by other companies, ~   full payment - in cash / wire transfer - is being asked when making the reservation or long before the beginning of trip, especially for services that must not be paid in advance by the travel company (meals, guide services, ground transportation).

Please E-mail Us if your Romania experience was flawed by a company and/or its staff, or you wish to check the credentials of a Romanian tour company.   Thank you for your feedback and suggestions on how to make Romania safer and more appealing to visitors.

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Romania Travel Restrictions

Traveller's COVID-19 vaccination status

Travelling from the United Kingdom to Romania

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Ready to travel?

Find flights to romania, find stays in romania, explore more countries on travel restrictions map, destinations you can travel to now, netherlands, new zealand, philippines, switzerland, united arab emirates, united states, know when to go.

Sign up for email alerts as countries begin to open - choose the destinations you're interested in so you're in the know.

Can I travel to Romania from the United Kingdom?

Most visitors from the United Kingdom, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Romania.

Can I travel to Romania if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United Kingdom can enter Romania without restrictions.

Can I travel to Romania without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United Kingdom can enter Romania without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Romania?

Visitors from the United Kingdom are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Romania.

Can I travel to Romania without quarantine?

Travellers from the United Kingdom are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Romania?

Mask usage in Romania is not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Romania?

Restaurants in Romania are open. Bars in Romania are .

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Travel Vaccines and Advice for Romania

From woods to mountains, Romania offers travellers the chance to explore stunning landscapes. With all its old architecture and museums, this country also allows travellers to learn about its rich history.

The culture of Romania is evident through locations like the Stavropoleos Monastery and the Romanian Athenaeum. If a traveller wants to take a break from history, Bucharest is also a hip, thriving location city.

If the city life is too much for some visitors, they can head to Sinaia instead. This town in the central region of the Bucegi Mountains. There are various opportunities for hiking or skiing along the nearby mountains.

Romania serves as an ideal location for anyone seeking a diverse experience. The country holds a rich history, beautiful landscapes and endless sights. If you’re looking for a holiday with endless possibilities, then you’re looking to visit Romania.

Do I Need Vaccines for Romania?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Romania. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Romania: COVID-19 , hepatitis A , hepatitis B , tickborne encephalitis , rabies and tetanus .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:

• COVID-19 – Airborne – Recommended for all travellers
• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated.
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Accelerated schedule available
• Tetanus – Wounds or Breaks in Skin – Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated.
• Tickborne Encephalitis – Ticks or Unpasteurised Products – Transmission is widespread. Spread is most common from early spring to late autumn.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.

See the table below for more information:

See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now .

Do I Need a Passport or Visa for Romania?

No visa is required for stays under three months in Romania. Passports must be valid for the duration of your stay.

Sources: Embassy of Romania and GOV.UK

What Is The Climate Like In Romania?

The climate in Romania varies by season. The country experiences all four seasons, including winter. The winters in Romania can be bitter cold and filled with snow, whilst the summer often burn hot. Rainfall is moderate throughout the country. Temperatures are consistent throughout the country, but vary based on location. Here is what to expect in a few tourist destinations:

• Bucharest – Summers in the capital city can see temperatures in the high 20’s in July. January has lows in the -10’s. Snow is common in the winter. But, precipitation is low throughout the year. Bucharest sees 530 millimeters of precipitation yearly.
• Brașov – The region of Brașov sees much colder temperatures than other parts of Romania. Highs in the summer only reach about 5 degrees Celsius, and lows in the winter can plummet down to -20.

How Safe Is Romania?

Crime is not uncommon in Romania. The most common incidents include pick-pocketing, robbery, scams and credit card fraud. organised crime is present in the country. Be watchful at train stations and in tubes.

Always travel with a companion, especially overnight. Do not leave private belongings unattended or out in the open. Use ATMs inside banks, be wary in internet cafes and try to use cash instead of credit cards.

Keeping Your Footing in Romania’s Mountains

From the Piatra Mare Mountains, to the Bucegi Mountains and more, Romania is lined by high peaks. These mountains are the ideal setting for skiing, snowboarding and even hiking. Whether the aim is to scale mountain or fly down them in the snow, Romania attracts travellers all year long.

While these extreme sports might seem exciting, they are also highly dangerous. Embarking on a hike beyond your physical capability or unprepared can lead to dehydration or worse. Snowboarding or skiing can lead to injury. Always know your physical capabilities. Do not try any sports or activities that you do not feel comfortable with. Always makes sure someone knows where you are and when you should be returning.

What Should I Pack for Romania?

In addition to all travel documents and medications recommended by a Passport Health Travel Medicine Specialist, here are some items to consider packing:

• Jacket – It will be cold in the winter and in early spring and late autumn. You can also experience a chill in the summer if you choose to hike near up the mountains. To ensure your comfort, pack warm jumpers and jackets. If it’s the warmer time of the year, at least bring one jumper.
• Comfortable Shoes – There are many sightseeing and hiking opportunities in Romania. Packing a pair of shoes that you’re comfortable walking in will help keep your feet happy. Also consider a pair of hiking boots if you plan to specifically go hiking.
• Umbrella – Travel bloggers insist on bringing an umbrella to Romania as well. Some areas in the country can be quite rainy, and there is also the possibility of sudden downpours. Having an umbrella will keep you dry and keep the rain from dampening any of your plans.

Embassy of the United Kingdom in Romania

If you are in Romania and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.

British Embassy in Bucharest 24 Jules Michelet 010463 Bucharest Romania Telephone: +40 (21) 201 7200 Emergency Phone: +40 (21) 201 7200 Contact Form: Click Here

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On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines For Romania? Do I Need a Passport or Visa for Romania? What Is The Climate Like In Romania? How Safe Is Romania? Keeping Your Footing in Romania’s Mountains What Should I Pack for Romania? Embassy of the United Kingdom in Romania

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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Romania - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed .

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  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 .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

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  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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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Romania travel advice

Latest updates: Editorial change

Last updated: April 5, 2024 09:50 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, romania - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in Romania

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Violent crime is rare.

Pickpocketing, purse snatching and mugging occur, particularly in Bucharest and other urban centres. Be vigilant in crowded areas such as busy streets, public transportation, train stations and airport terminals. Avoid walking alone after dark.

Organized groups of thieves are particularly active in public transport hubs, such as train and bus stations, and subways.

Theft can occur on intercity trains. Don’t leave your compartment unattended. Always lock the door from the inside. Don’t travel on your own, particularly on overnight trains.

Theft from hotel rooms is common. Make sure your valuables are always locked away if leaving them in the room while you’re away.

Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times, particularly on public transportation. Avoid showing signs of affluence and carrying large sums of cash.

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities and further attacks are likely.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant if attending sporting events and during religious holidays and other public celebrations, as terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.

Individuals posing as plainclothes police officers may ask you to see your foreign currency and passports. Politely decline to cooperate, but offer to go to the nearest police station to sort out the issue.

Some bars and nightclubs may try to charge exorbitant prices. Discussions about overcharging may lead to threats of violence and security guards may force you to pay.

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Cybercrime occurs. Perpetrators may compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal credit card or personal information.

• Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks
• Avoid making purchases on unencrypted websites
• Be cautious when posting information on social media
• Be particularly vigilant when contacting or meeting individuals known over the internet

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as the items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place from time to time. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• follow the instructions of local authorities
• monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country. With the exception of major city streets and intercity highways, many roads are in disrepair, poorly lit, narrow and without marked lanes.

Driving can be hazardous due to aggressive drivers, erratic driving behaviour and excessive speeds.

Don’t drive after dark outside of major cities due to unsafe conditions. These can include horse-drawn carts without lights and wandering livestock on the road.

Public transportation

Use only licensed metered taxis that display their price lists. Verify the tariffs on the taxi’s window before boarding and ensure that the meter displays the correct tariff. Tariffs are more expensive at night and when travelling outside of the city limits.

At the Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport, arrange for a taxi from the taxis booth within the arrivals terminal to get a fair rate. Don’t hail a taxi on the street; instead, order one from your hotel or use a trusted ride-sharing app.

Avoid travelling alone in a taxi to remote areas.

Rail services safety standards are generally good.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Romanian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

schengen_area

• Schengen area

Romania entered the Schengen area on March 31, 2024. Air and maritime border controls are no longer in effect. Land border controls will remain in effect until further notice.

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave Romania.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period Business visa: not required for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period Student visa: required

The 90-day, visa-free period begins upon initial entry into Romania.

If you plan to return to Romania within 180 days of your last visit, authorities will only allow you entry for what’s left of your 90-day, visa-free exemption. If you’ve already spent 90 days within any 180 day-period, authorities may refuse you entry.

Romania is a Schengen area country. Canadian citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area. However, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country.

If you plan to stay in the Schengen area for a longer period of time, you will need a visa. You must contact the high commission or embassy of the country or countries you are travelling to and obtain the appropriate visa(s) prior to travel.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada

Children and travel

Romanian authorities consider a child born to a Romanian parent as a citizen of Romania, even if the child was born in Canada and has a Canadian passport.

When leaving Romania, a Romanian citizen under the age of 18 must:

• travel with one of the following
• both parents
• one parent with the written consent of the non-accompanying parent
• their legal guardian(s)
• an authorized person over the age of 18 who has passed a criminal record check.
• carry a standard statement of consent to travel from their parent(s) or guardian(s), notarized by Romanian authorities. This does not apply to Romanian children returning to their proven country of legal residence.

Entry and exit requirements for children under the age of 18 may change without notice. Parents of children travelling alone or with one parent should contact the nearest Romanian embassy or consulate before departing for Romania to confirm that each child meets the latest entry and exit requirements.

• Travelling with children
• Terms of leaving Romania with Romanian minors (in Romanian)

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk  during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Medical services and facilities vary throughout the country. They may not be up to the standards you might expect in Canada. Private hospitals and clinics located in cities are often better staffed and equipped than public or rural facilities. Most medical facilities expect cash payment at the time of service.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Romania are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Romania to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Romania authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Identification

You must carry photo identification at all times as local authorities can ask you to prove your identity. A photocopy of your passport is acceptable, and will help in case of loss or seizure of the original document.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect prison sentences of up to 15 years and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Photography

It is illegal to photograph government buildings and military installations, unless prior permission has been obtained from local authorities.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Romania.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Romania, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Romania.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Romania, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Romanian court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Romania to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• The Hague Convention - Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

You must carry an international driving permit along with a valid Canadian driver’s licence in order to drive or to rent a vehicle in Romania. However, your Canadian driver’s licence is only considered valid for up to 90 days. For stays longer than 90 days, you will need to exchange your driver’s licence for a Romanian one.

Traffic laws are strict and local authorities carry out frequent road checks.

There is zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol and penalties are severe. If a police officer suspects you of drinking and driving, they could confiscate your driver's licence on the spot. If you’re convicted, you can expect heavy fines and jail sentences. It is illegal to refuse a breathalyser test.

You must carry vehicle registration and proof of insurance.

A motorway vignette (locally known as a rovinieta) is required to travel outside major cities. You may purchase these at border points, post offices and large gas stations.

Headlights must be on at all times when driving, regardless of the time of day or weather.

Winter tires are mandatory during winter months.

You must carry a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a warning triangle in your car.

The use of a cellular telephone while driving is prohibited, unless it is fitted with a hands-free device.

Children under 12 cannot sit in the front seat of a vehicle.

International Driving Permit

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Although Romanian law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex, homosexuality is not widely accepted.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

The currency of Romania is the leu (RON).

Exchanging money on the street is illegal. You may exchange Euros in recognized establishments, such as exchange shops, banks and hotels. Carry crisp bills, as merchants may not accept well-worn or used banknotes. Traveller’s cheques are not widely accepted. The economy is primarily cash-based, but credit cards are widely accepted in major urban centres.

If you are carrying €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the European Union. It includes sums in:

• banknotes and coins
• bearer negotiable instruments such as cheques, travellers’ cheques, promissory notes and money orders
• bonds, shares
• gold coins with a gold content of at least 90 %
• gold bars, nuggets or clumps with a gold content of at least 99.5 %
• any other convertible asset

This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country.

EU cash controls - European Commission

Seismic activity

Romania is located in an active seismic zone.

There is a risk of avalanches in mountainous regions when rapidly warming temperatures follow a particularly harsh winter. Extreme weather can cause landslides.

Exercise caution, monitor local news and weather reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Emergency information guide – Romania’s General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations (in Romanian)

Flooding is common in the winter and in the fall, but could occur at any time throughout the year.

High temperatures

Extreme temperatures, in both summer and winter, may cause electricity outages.

Local services

Dial 112 for emergency assistance.

Consular assistance

Bulgaria, Moldova

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada in Bucharest and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Warnings and insurance

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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Police investigating after 'American Idol' alum, singer Mandisa found dead in home

Christian music sensation Mandisa has died at 47.

The singer was found deceased in her home on Thursday, a rep for Mandisa confirmed to USA TODAY on Friday.

“At this time, we do not know the cause of death or any further details. We ask for your prayers for her family and close-knit circle of friends during this incredibly difficult time," her team said via email.

Officers were investigating her death, a spokesperson for the Franklin Police Department told the USA TODAY Network on Friday after the Christian singer and "American Idol" alum was found dead.

"Mandisa was a voice of encouragement and truth to people facing life’s challenges all around the world. She wrote this song for a dear friend who had passed in 2017. Her own words say it best. 'I'm already home, You've got to lay it down 'cause Jesus holds me now—And I am not alone,'" a statement posted Friday on her official Facebook account read.

The California native first rose to fame on Season 5 of "American Idol," when she finished within the Top 10.

Later, she released her debut album "True Beauty" and went on to become one of the most recognizable voices in the Christian music industry. The five-time Grammy Award nominee snagged the best contemporary Christian music album award for her 2013 album, "Overcomer," featuring the popular title song.

Passages 2024: Dickey Betts, Eleanor Coppola, Roberto Cavalli, more stars we've lost

Reps for the show issued a statement to USA TODAY about the loss of Mandisa on Friday.

"Mandisa was an adored icon on American Idol and in the music industry. She had become a platinum-selling artist and had won several Grammys for her music. Her passing has left everyone on the show heartbroken, and we extend our deepest condolences to her family," the statement read.

Robin Roberts mourns loss of Mandisa, who she listened to during cancer treatments

In 2017, during an interview with Robin Roberts on "Good Morning America," Mandisa recounted her struggle with a deep depression three years prior. Mandisa said she became depressed after the death from breast cancer of her best friend LaKisha "Kisha" Mitchell , who was also a background singer for the star.

“It got pretty bad to the point where if I had not gotten off that road I would not be sitting here today,” Mandisa told Robin Roberts on “ GMA .” "I was this close to listening to that voice that told me, ‘You can be with Jesus right now, Mandisa. All you have to do is take your life.'"

Roberts, who listened to Mandisa's song "Stronger" during her own breast cancer treatments, mourned Mandisa's loss in a Facebook post Friday, recounting how the "Idol" alum was present during her first day back on "GMA" after her cancer battle.

"My heart is heavy hearing about Mandisa. Incredibly blessed that she was there my first day back on GMA after my long medical leave. Her beautiful music and spirit lifted me and countless others. Sending prayers and condolences to her family & loved ones." she said, adding a link of Mandisa's performance .

Mandisa's death shared by Christian radio station: 'Struggles are over'

Mandisa's death was first shared in a blog post by Christian radio station K-Love.

In a statement, K-Love Chief Media Officer David Pierce said she "loved Jesus, and she used her unusually extensive platform to talk about Him at every turn" and asked for prayers for the star's family and friends.

"Her kindness was epic, her smile electric, her voice massive, but it wasno match for the size of her heart. Mandisa struggled, and she was vulnerable enough to share that with us, which helped us talk about our own struggles. Mandisa’s struggles are over. She is with the God she sang about now. While we are saddened, Mandisa is home," the statement read.

Contributing: Melonee Hurt and Craig Shoup; The Tennessean

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Moab businesses report strong start to tourist season

After 2022 and 2023 slumps, 2024 spring seems robust..

(Sophia Fisher | Moab Times-Independent) People gather outside Back of Beyond Books in Moab on April 12, 2024.

After some trepidation following post-coronavirus travel slumps, several business owners are reporting a relatively strong start to the 2024 season.

For Chile Pepper Bike Shop, the week of Easter Jeep Safari — which occurred March 23–31 — served as a beneficial jolt to the traditional kickoff of spring tourist season.

“Easter weekend was a great start,” said store manager Phillip Martin. “I would say we were more consistent through March in general.”

Several hoteliers said the same at recent Grand County Travel Council Advisory Board meetings.

“We had an exceptionally busy Jeep Safari/Easter week,” said Brian Hunnings, chair of the board and manager of Red Cliffs Lodge.

“We did really well on Jeep Safari,” agreed Rebecca Monceaux, another member of the board who manages sales for the Element Moab. “…The season has hit full swing for us.”

While not necessarily indicative of the upcoming year, a robust spring may come as a relief following several years of post-coronavirus corrections in the tourism market.

“Everyone’s brand is diluted from COVID,” said Grand County Economic Development Director Ben Fredregill. “This is not a Moab-only [issue].”

At an international tourism conference he recently attended in Berlin, Germany, Fredregill said he was surprised at the money other adventure-tourist destinations are pouring into their marketing efforts.

“We are in a hugely competitive market — it’s always been competitive,” he said. “It is now on steroids.”

Fredregill noted that Moab’s tourist economy has faced other post-pandemic challenges, too. He specifically named the recent appeal of international travel coupled with the sluggish return of international tourists to U.S. markets, and increased selectivity in travel generally.

Indeed, following a bumper 2021 when the county’s Transient Room Tax revenue soared by 45% over 2019 levels, tax revenues noticeably slumped. They declined by 11.6% from 2021 to 2022 and another 8.4% from 2022 to 2023, according to Utah Office of Tourism analysis of inflation adjusted data from the Utah State Tax Commission.

Simultaneously, local hotels and short-term rentals had slightly more empty rooms in 2023 than 2022. According to Smith Travel Research, occupancy dropped 4% in 2023 compared to 2022. The research company Lighthouse estimated that occupancy of short-term rentals dropped by 5% the same year.

(Lighthouse also found that Grand County’s short-term rental supply climbed 14% from 2022 to 2023.)

The post-pandemic slackening isn’t necessarily unique to Moab, however. Many of Utah’s popular parks saw “a bit of a dip” following a travel-heavy 2021, per Denise Jordan, the director of marketing analytics and research for the Utah Office of Tourism.

“What we’ve seen since then is a … leveling out back to what we had seen in 2017, 2018, 2019,” Jordan said.

Visitation for Canyonlands National Park reflect that — their roughly 800,000 visitors in 2022 and 2023 roughly mirrors 2016–19. Arches National Park, on the other hand, saw about 1.4 million visitors in 2022 and 2023, more closely resembling 2015 and 2016 totals.

Jordan said one of the biggest differencesbetween Utah’s pre- and post-pandemic tourism is the absence of international visitors.

“What we know we’re missing is some of the international travel,” she said. “We haven’t seen international travel fully rebound.”

The state tourism office currently expects tourists from places like Europe and Asia to rebound to “2019 or greater numbers” in 2025, Jordan said.

Fredregill said he’s heard that many travelers are also more selective in their vacations.

“People that normally took three trips are now taking one,” he said.

At Chile Pepper, Martin said he’s seeing more spontaneous trips and fewer pre-booked travels.

“It feels like seat-of-your-pants tourism,” he joked.

Regardless, several business owners and managers reported rosy business in the first quarter of 2024.

Michael Miller, manager of Dewey’s Restaurant and Bar, said 2023 was a “decent” year and he’s anticipating the same this season.

“The mild weather really helped,” Miller said. “We feel like we’re in a good spot.”

At the travel council board’s March 12 meeting, both Hunnings and Monceaux reported a strong March.

“People are not afraid to spend money,” Hunnings said. “We’re definitely seeing a return of guests that all went to Europe last year because Europe opened up after COVID and now they’re back.”

Moab Chamber of Commerce Board President Shalee Bryant at the board’s April 9 meeting said she’s heard positive forecasts from several local businesses.

“I am hearing people are a little bit more optimistic than they were last year,” Bryant said. She noted, however, that some food trucks are still seeing deflated earnings after a tough 2023.

“They’re feeling a little concerned right now — just don’t want another repeat,” she said.

At the bike shop, Martin said the outdoor industry is still undergoing a reset and stabilization after the coronavirus boom. Staff are being conservative with their plans, he said, but they’re still feeling optimistic about business in 2024.

“The weather is good and getting better,” he said. “In general, I think the vibes are pretty high.”

This story was first published by The Times-Independent .

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Fully vaccinated visitors from Malaysia can enter Romania without restrictions.

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Unvaccinated visitors from Malaysia can enter Romania without restrictions.

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Visitors from Malaysia are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Romania.

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Travellers from Malaysia are not required to quarantine.

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What we know about unauthorized immigrants living in the U.S.

The unauthorized immigrant population in the United States reached 10.5 million in 2021, according to new Pew Research Center estimates. That was a modest increase over 2019 but nearly identical to 2017.

The number of unauthorized immigrants living in the U.S. in 2021 remained below its peak of 12.2 million in 2007. It was about the same size as in 2004 and lower than every year from 2005 to 2015.

The new estimates do not reflect changes that have occurred since apprehensions and expulsions of migrants along the U.S.-Mexico border started increasing in March 2021 . Migrant encounters at the border have since reached historic highs .

Pew Research Center undertook this research to understand ongoing changes in the size and characteristics of the unauthorized immigrant population in the United States. The Center has published estimates of the U.S. unauthorized immigrant population for more than two decades. The estimates presented in this research are the Center’s latest, adding new and updated annual estimates for 2017 through 2021.

Center estimates of the unauthorized immigrant population use a “residual method.” It is similar to methods used by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Immigration Statistics and nongovernmental organizations, including the Center for Migration Studies and the Migration Policy Institute . Those organizations’ estimates are generally consistent with ours. Our estimates also align with official U.S. data sources, including birth records, school enrollment figures and tax data, as well as Mexican censuses and surveys.

Our “residual” method for estimating the nation’s unauthorized immigrant population includes these steps:

• Estimate the total number of immigrants living in the country in a particular year using data from U.S. censuses and government surveys such as the American Community Survey and the Current Population Survey.
• Estimate the number of immigrants living in the U.S. legally using official counts of immigrant and refugee admissions together with other demographic data (for example, death and out-migration rates).
• Subtract our estimate of lawful immigrants from our estimate of the total immigrant population . This provides an initial estimate of the unauthorized immigrant population .

Our final estimate of the U.S. unauthorized immigrant population, as well as estimates for lawful immigrants, includes an upward adjustment. We do this because censuses and surveys tend to miss some people . Undercounts for immigrants, especially unauthorized immigrants, tend to be higher than for other groups. (Our 1990 estimate comes from work by Robert Warren and John Robert Warren; details can be found here .)

The term “unauthorized immigrant” reflects standard and customary usage by many academic researchers and policy analysts. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Immigration Statistics also generally uses it. The term means the same thing as undocumented immigrants, illegal immigrants and illegal aliens.

For more details on how we produced our estimates, read the Methodology section of our November 2018 report on unauthorized immigrants.

The unauthorized immigrant population includes any immigrants not in the following groups:

• Immigrants admitted for lawful residence (i.e., green card admissions)
• People admitted formally as refugees
• People granted asylum
• Former unauthorized immigrants granted legal residence under the 1985 Immigration Reform and Control Act
• Immigrants admitted under any of categories 1-4 who have become naturalized U.S. citizens
• Individuals admitted as lawful temporary residents under specific visa categories

Read the Methodology section of our November 2018 report on unauthorized immigrants for more details.

Pew Research Center’s estimate of unauthorized immigrants includes more than 2 million immigrants who have temporary permission to be in the United States. (Some also have permission to work in the country.) These immigrants account for about 20% of our national estimate of 10.5 million unauthorized immigrants for 2021.

Although these immigrants have permission to be in the country, they could be subject to deportation if government policy changes. Other organizations and the federal government also include these immigrants in their estimates of the U.S. unauthorized immigrant population.

Immigrants can receive temporary permission to be in the U.S. through the following ways:

Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

In 2021, there were about 500,000 unauthorized immigrants with Temporary Protected Status . This status provides protection from removal or deportation to individuals who cannot safely return to their country because of civil unrest, violence or natural disaster.

Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) is a similar program that grants protection from removal. The number of immigrants with DED is much smaller than the number with TPS.

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals is a program that offers protection from deportation to individuals who were brought to the U.S. as children before June 15, 2007. As of the end of 2021, there were slightly more than 600,000 DACA beneficiaries , largely immigrants from Mexico.

Asylum applicants

Individuals who have applied for asylum but are awaiting a ruling are not legal residents yet but cannot be deported. There are two types of asylum claims, defensive and affirmative .

Defensive asylum applications are generally filed by individuals facing deportation or removal from the U.S. These are processed by the Department of Justice’s Executive Office for Immigration Review. At the end of 2021, there were almost 600,000 applications pending.

Affirmative asylum claims are made by individuals already in the U.S. who are not in the process of being deported or removed. These claims are handled by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). At the end of 2021, more than 400,000 applications for affirmative asylum were pending, some covering more than one applicant.

Here are key findings about how the U.S. unauthorized immigrant population changed from 2017 to 2021:

• The most common country of birth for unauthorized immigrants is Mexico. However, the population of unauthorized immigrants from Mexico dropped by 900,000 from 2017 to 2021 , to 4.1 million.
• There were increases in unauthorized immigrants from nearly every other region of the world – Central America, the Caribbean, South America, Asia, Europe and sub-Saharan Africa.
• Among U.S. states, only Florida and Washington saw increases to their unauthorized immigrant populations , while California and Nevada saw decreases. In all other states, unauthorized immigrant populations were unchanged.
• 4.6% of U.S. workers in 2021 were unauthorized immigrants , virtually identical to the share in 2017.

Trends in the U.S. immigrant population

The U.S. foreign-born population was 14.1% of the nation’s population in 2021. That was very slightly higher than in the last five years but below the record high of 14.8% in 1890.

As of 2021, the nation’s 10.5 million unauthorized immigrants represented about 3% of the total U.S. population and 22% of the foreign-born population. These shares were among the lowest since the 1990s.

Between 2007 and 2021, the unauthorized immigrant population decreased by 1.75 million, or 14%.

Meanwhile, the lawful immigrant population grew by more than 8 million, a 29% increase, and the number of naturalized U.S. citizens grew by 49%. In 2021, naturalized citizens accounted for about half (49%) of all immigrants in the country.

Where unauthorized immigrants come from

Unauthorized immigrants living in the U.S. come from many parts of the world, with Mexico being the most common origin country.

The origin countries for unauthorized immigrants have changed since the population peaked in 2007, before the Great Recession slowed immigration. Here are some highlights of those changes:

The number of unauthorized immigrants from Mexico living in the U.S. (4.1 million in 2021) was the lowest since the 1990s. Mexico accounted for 39% of the nation’s unauthorized immigrants in 2021, by far the smallest share on record .

The decrease in unauthorized immigrants from Mexico reflects several factors:

• A broader decline in migration from Mexico to the U.S.
• Mexican immigrants to the U.S. continuing to return to Mexico
• Expanded opportunities for lawful immigration from Mexico and other countries, especially for temporary agricultural workers.

The rest of the world

The total number of unauthorized immigrants in the U.S. from countries other than Mexico has grown rapidly. In 2021, this population was 6.4 million, up by 900,000 from 2017.

Almost every region in the world had a notable increase in the number of unauthorized immigrants in the U.S. from 2007 to 2021. The largest increases were from Central America (240,000) and South and East Asia (180,000).

After Mexico, the countries of origin with the largest unauthorized immigrant populations in the U.S. in 2021 were:

• El Salvador (800,000)
• India (725,000)
• Guatemala (700,000)
• Honduras (525,000)

India, Guatemala and Honduras all saw increases from 2017.

The Northern Triangle

Three Central American countries – El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala – together represented 2.0 million unauthorized immigrants in the U.S. in 2021, or almost 20% of the total. The unauthorized immigrant population from the Northern Triangle grew by about 250,000 from 2017 and about 700,000 from 2007.

Other origin countries

Venezuela was the country of birth for 190,000 U.S. unauthorized immigrants in 2021. This population saw particularly fast growth, from 130,000 in 2017 and 55,000 in 2007.

Among countries with the largest numbers of U.S. unauthorized immigrants, India, Brazil, Canada and former Soviet Union countries all experienced growth from 2017 to 2021.

Some origin countries with significant unauthorized immigrant populations showed no change, notably China (375,000) and the Dominican Republic (230,000).

Detailed table: Unauthorized immigrant population by region and selected country of birth (and margins of error), 1990-2021 (Excel)

U.S. states of residence of unauthorized immigrants

The unauthorized immigrant population in most U.S. states stayed steady from 2017 to 2021. However, four states saw significant changes:

• Florida (+80,000)
• Washington (+60,000)
• California (-150,000)
• Nevada (-25,000)

States with the most unauthorized immigrants

The six states with the largest unauthorized immigrant populations in 2021 were:

• California (1.9 million)
• Texas (1.6 million)
• Florida (900,000)
• New York (600,000)
• New Jersey (450,000)
• Illinois (400,000)

These states have consistently had the most unauthorized immigrants since 1990 and earlier .

At the same time, the unauthorized immigrant population has become less geographically concentrated. In 2021, these six states were home to 56% of the nation’s unauthorized immigrants, down from 80% in 1990.

Detailed table: Unauthorized immigrant population for states (and margins of error), 1990-2021 (Excel)

Detailed table: Unauthorized immigrants and characteristics for states, 2021 (Excel)

Unauthorized immigrants in the labor force

The share of unauthorized immigrants in the U.S. workforce was slightly less than 5% in 2021, compared with 3% of the total U.S. population.

Demographics help explain the difference: The unauthorized immigrant population includes relatively few children or elderly adults, groups that tend not to be in the labor force.

Overall, about 7.8 million unauthorized immigrants were in the U.S. labor force in 2021. That was up slightly from 2019 but smaller than every year from 2007 through 2015.

Detailed table: Unauthorized immigrants in the labor force for states, 2021 (Excel)

Here are some additional findings about unauthorized immigrants as a share of the workforce nationwide and in certain states:

• Since 2003, unauthorized immigrants have made up 4.4% to 5.4% of all U.S. workers, a relatively narrow range.
• Fewer than 1% of workers in Maine, Montana, Vermont and West Virginia in 2021 were unauthorized immigrants.
• Nevada (9%) and Texas (8%) had the highest shares of unauthorized immigrants in the workforce.
• Immigrant Populations
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• Unauthorized Immigration

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