Immigration to Moldova

Moldova is a landlocked country located in Eastern Europe. It is bordered by Romania to the west and Ukraine to the north, east and south. The land area is approximately 33,846 square kilometers (13,068 square miles). As of 2024, the estimated population of Moldova is around 2.5 million. Moldova is a parliamentary republic, where the President servers as the head of the state and the Prime Minister is the head of government.  Moldova has been actively pursuing closer ties with the European Union while balancing historical ties with Russia. Chișinău is the capital of Moldova, known of its elegant parks, Soviet-era architecture and vibrant wine culture. It is a hub of Moldovan culture, and government. Other famous cities of Moldova are Tiraspol, Orhei, Balti and Cahul. Moldova boasts some of the world’s largest wine cellars or wineries like Milestii Mici and Cricova. The economy of Moldova is mostly based on agriculture and wine. The key products are grapes, sunflowers, corn, wheat and fruits. The cost of living in Moldova is among the lowest in Europe, making it an affordable destination for expats and tourists. Immigrants from Russia, Ukraine, Turkey and India are found in Moldova, who mostly come for work, family reunification, study etc.

Traveling information 

Tourists and Immigrants are allowed to enter Moldova with specific visa and documents. There are no general restrictions, but specific policies might apply to countries with diplomatic or safety concerns.  Citizens of EU countries, Schengen Area states, the United States, Canada and Australia and few other nations are allowed to enter Moldova without a visa for a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Travelers from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), such as Ukraine, Belarus and Russia may enter Moldova visa-free.

The basic requirements to enter Moldova are:

• A valid passport with at least six month’s validity beyond the intended stay.
• Visa (if Applicable)
• Completed visa application form for visa-required travellers
• Recent passport-size photographs
• Proof of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay/visit.
• Proof of accommodation like hotel reservation of invitation letter
• Proof of travel itinerary (flight tickets)
• Travel insurance covering the entire stay in Moldova
• A return/onward ticket (if applicable)
• For work, study or long stays- additional documents such as employment letters/university acceptance letters

Moldova offers e-visa for eligible nationalities, simplifying the application process. Visitors entering Transnistria, the breakaway region, should be aware of additional registration requirements upon arrival. Transnistria, the breakaway region in eastern Moldova, is located on a narrow strip of land between Dniester River and the Ukrainian border.

How to reach Moldova:

The main international airport of Moldova is Chișinău International Airport (KIV). It is located approximately 13 km (8 miles) southeast of Chișinău, the capital city. Moldova’s national flag carrier is Air Moldova, which has scheduled flights to Europe, Asia and the Middle East. Some popular destinations are Rome, London, Barcelona, Milan, Athens, Lisbon, Berlin, Florence, Vienna, Istanbul, Bucharest and Dubai.

Other Airlines that operates to/from Moldova are:

• Lufthansa
• Turkish Airlines
• Wizz Air (low-cost airline)
• FlyOne (privately owned low-cost airline)
• Austrian Airlines
• Aegean Airlines
• Hi-Sky
• LOT Polish Airlines

How to Immigrate to Moldova

The following type of Visas and requirements to enter Moldova:

Type A – Airport Transit visa
Type B- Transit Visa
Type C – Short Stay Visa

• Type C/T is issued to third-state citizens to wants to visit Moldova for tourism.  
• Type C/MI is issued for Official Mission to third-state citizens and their family members who travel to Moldova for political, administrative or government work related reasons.
• Type C/V is issued to citizens who wants to visit Moldova for private visits to Moldovan citizens or to foreigners holding a valid Moldavan residence permit.
• Type C/A issued for persons travelling to Moldova for economic, business or commercial purpose.
• Other Short-Stay visa types are C/TS, C/S, C/AD

Type D – Long Stay Visa

• Type D/AI for third-party nationals who are investing in the national economy of Moldova
• Type D/AM issued to third-country citizens who are employed by an employer in Moldova & also to those who travel to Moldova as seasonal worker etc.
• Type D/AS issued to those who want to study in Moldova
• Type D/VF issued to third-country nationals who want to enter Moldova for family reunification.
• Other type of Long Stay Visas are D/RU, D/DS, D/TR, D/IT, D/TP and D/FT

To get the detailed information of the visas and the requirements, please click on the link: mfa.gov.md

To immigrate to Moldova, you can apply for citizenship, work permit or residence permit:

• Citizenship – is naturally acquired if you live in Moldova legally and continually for 10 years. Secondly if you are married to a Moldovan citizen for at least 3 years. Third, if you have lived with a Moldova parents or children for 3 continuous years legally.
• Work Permit – Work Permit is needed to work in Moldova, even if you are an EU citizen. You must have an employment contract with a Moldovan company.
• Temporary Residence Permit – A person who meets all the requirements and have a valid reason to stay in Moldova for more than 90 days.

People

The people of Moldova are called Moldovans. Moldova is home to several ethnic groups, with the majority being Moldovans (or Romanians), followed by Ukrainians, Russians, Gagauz, and Bulgarians. Moldovan culture is deeply rooted in its agricultural traditions, folk music, and dance, and family plays a central role in their social structure. Moldovans are known for their warm and hospitable nature, valuing close-knit family ties and respecting traditions. Religion, primarily Orthodox Christianity, is a significant aspect of life, influencing festivals and daily practices. In appearance, Moldovans typically have a mix of European features, often with dark hair and expressive eyes. Traditional clothing includes embroidered blouses and skirts for women, and shirts with sashes or vests for men. Popular foods include “mămăligă” (cornmeal porridge), “sarmale” (cabbage rolls), and “placinte” (savory pies). Agriculture and wine production are key professions, reflecting Moldova’s fertile landscape. Moldovans generally welcome foreigners and immigrants with curiosity and warmth, appreciating those who respect their culture and traditions.

Climate 

Moldova has a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter.

• Summers (June to August) – are warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), although they can occasionally reach above 30°C (86°F).
• Winters (December to February) – are cold, with average temperatures hovering around -4°C to 1°C (25°F to 34°F) and occasional snowfall. Snowfall is not extremely heavy, but it is common, especially in January, which is typically the coldest month. The snow can create a picturesque winter landscape, particularly in rural areas and forests.
• Spring (March to May) – is mild and pleasant, marked by blooming landscapes.
• Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and colorful foliage, often accompanied by harvest festivities.

Moldova experiences moderate rainfall, primarily during spring and summer, making the climate favorable for agriculture, especially vineyards and orchards. The weather in Moldova is generally stable, offering a balance of seasonal activities and picturesque landscapes throughout the year.

Language 

Romanian, is the official language of Moldova. Some 78.6% of the native population understand and speak Romanian as their first language. It is often called “Moldovan” in the country’s constitution, but it is actually the same as Romanian. It is also the primary language used in government, education and media. The script of the Romanian language is written in Latin alphabet.

Other widely spoken language in Moldova is Russian, especially in urban areas and among older generations. Gagauz is spoken by the Gagauz ethnic minority population, living in the Gagauz Autonomous Territorial Unit (ATUG) in southern Moldova. It is a Turkic language and has official status within the Gagauz region.

Ukrainian is also spoken among the Ukrainian minority, especially in the northern regions and Bulgarian is spoken in the southern Moldova. Other languages heard in Moldova ae Yiddish, spoken in the Jewish community though is declining now. Romani is also spoken in Moldova by the Romani community. English is increasingly recognised in Moldova as the second language, particularly used in business and education.

Currency

The official currency of Moldova is the Moldovan Leu (MDL), symbolized as “Lei” (plural “Lei”) or “L” (singular). One (1) Leu equal to 100 Bani. The currency is issued and controlled by the National Bank of Moldova, which is responsible for maintaining its stability and managing the monetary policy. The Leu is not widely traded internationally and is generally considered a less powerful currency in the global market. 

The Moldovan Leu is available in banknotes in the following denominations:
1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 Leu

The Moldovan Leu is available in coins in the following denominations:
1, 5, 10, and 25 Bani

The Bani coins are frequently used in everyday transactions. The value of the Leu has fluctuated in recent years, reflecting Moldova’s economic conditions, and the currency is influenced by factors such as inflation and foreign exchange rates. Additionally, Moldova’s proximity to the European Union and Russia plays a role in shaping the Leu’s economic environment.