Abstract: A process for emulsion flooding of petroleum reservoirs comprising injecting a thermodynamically stable microemulsion consisting of oil, a non-ionic surfactant and water which optionally contains salts dissolved in any desired concentrations, into an injection well; driving injected microemulsion bank through the reservoir by means of water which likewise may contain salts dissolved in any desired concentrations. The microemulsion bank in contact with the water driving the bank forms an excess phase with a high water content, a low surfactant content and low oil content, and has such a viscosity sufficient to prevent the penetration of the subsequent water into the microemulsion bank which would cause a decrease of its flowability and its ability to displace oil.