Population
GDP (per capital)
Visa-Free Countries
GDP (purchasing power parity)
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Immigrate to Moldova (2025 Edition)
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Situated between Romania and Ukraine, Moldova is steadily becoming an attractive destination for those seeking a fresh start in Eastern Europe. Its low cost of living, expanding IT sector, and stable economy make it ideal for work, study, and long-term residence. Moldova’s recent EU candidate status further enhances its appeal for investors and migrants eyeing future regional integration. Whether for business, culture, or lifestyle, Moldova offers promising opportunities for newcomers in 2025.
- Main Industries
- Agriculture and Wine Production
- Food and Beverage Processing
- Textile and Apparel Manufacturing
- Information and Communication Technology
- Construction and Real Estate
- Transport and Logistics Services
- Retail and Wholesale Trade
- Tourism and Cultural Services
UTC +3
33,843 km2
Chișinău
Moldovan leu
Romanian
Russian, Gagauz, Ukrainian, Bulgarian
Who Might Consider Immigrating to Moldova?
Moldova is far from a one-size-fits-all destination, catering to a wide range of people. Students are drawn by affordable tuition and growing international programs, while remote workers appreciate its improving internet and low living costs. Entrepreneurs and investors benefit from a business-friendly environment and favorable taxes. Skilled professionals in IT, education, and healthcare can find promising opportunities. Retirees enjoy a peaceful lifestyle blending nature and modern amenities. Additionally, those with family or cultural ties often choose Moldova to reconnect and embrace familiar traditions. Overall, Moldova is becoming a preferred choice for education, career advancement, investment, and lifestyle in a vibrant, evolving setting.
All Moldova Visa Type
All Moldova Visa Type
Digital Nomad Visa (Launched in 2025)
In response to the global rise in remote work, Moldova introduced its Digital Nomad Visa in 2025. This program allows foreign nationals to live in Moldova while working for employers or clients based abroad.
Who Is It For?
This visa targets remote professionals, such as freelancers, IT specialists, consultants, and employees of non-Moldovan companies, who wish to reside temporarily in Moldova while continuing their work remotely.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must demonstrate:
- Foreign income equivalent to at least three times Moldova’s average monthly salary,
- Valid health insurance for the duration of stay,
- A clean criminal record from their country of residence,
- Proof of accommodation and a valid passport.
Duration and Renewal
The visa is issued for 12 months and can be renewed once for another 12 months, provided the applicant continues to meet all requirements.
Application and Fees
Applications are submitted online through Moldova’s immigration portal. As of 2025, the application fee ranges between €100 and €150, depending on processing time.
Key Benefits
- Legal residence with tax flexibility,
- Access to public services and infrastructure,
- Opportunity to transition to long-term residency,
- A chance to explore Moldova while maintaining your global career.
With its low cost of living, improving digital infrastructure, and growing expat scene, Moldova is fast becoming an attractive destination for digital nomads looking for a peaceful yet connected European base.
Work Visa & Employment-Based Immigration
For skilled professionals seeking to build a career abroad, Moldova offers a structured pathway through its employment-based immigration program. Designed to attract foreign talent, this route is particularly suitable for individuals who have secured job offers from registered Moldovan employers.
Who Can Apply?
This visa category is intended for non-EU nationals who have received a formal employment offer from a company operating in Moldova. It applies across various sectors, including IT, manufacturing, healthcare, education, and agriculture, depending on labor market demand.Visa Type and Validity
Eligible candidates must apply for a Type D visa, Moldova’s long-stay work visa, which allows legal residence for the purpose of employment. This visa is typically granted for up to 12 months, with the possibility of annual renewal tied to the continuation of employment.Requirements and Process
To apply, foreign nationals must provide:- A valid employment contract signed by both parties,
- Sponsorship from the employer, submitted through the National Employment Agency (ANOFM),
- Proof of suitable accommodation within Moldova,
- Documentation of sufficient income, ensuring financial independence,
- A clean criminal record certificate from the applicant’s country of residence,
- A passport with adequate validity.
Fees and Processing Time
The application fee for the Type D work visa generally ranges from €120 to €180, depending on the complexity of the case and speed of processing. On average, visa issuance takes 30 to 45 days, although delays may occur during peak periods.Pathway to Permanent Residence
One of the long-term benefits of this visa is its clear route to permanent residency. Foreign nationals who maintain continuous legal employment in Moldova for five years may become eligible to apply for long-term resident status, granting greater rights and stability.Study Visa
Moldova has increasingly become an attractive destination for international students seeking quality education in a peaceful and affordable European setting. With universities expanding their programs and offering more courses in English, the country is opening its doors to learners from around the world.
Who Is Eligible?
This visa is ideal for foreign nationals who have been officially admitted to a recognized educational institution in Moldova — whether a university, college, or accredited vocational or technical school. Students from both EU and non-EU countries are welcome, provided they meet the necessary criteria.Visa Type and Duration
International students must apply for a Type D visa, designated for long-term stays. Once granted, it allows entry into Moldova and serves as a basis for obtaining a temporary residence permit, which is usually issued for one academic year and can be renewed annually for the full duration of the study program.Application Requirements
Applicants must present:- An official letter of acceptance from a Moldovan educational institution,
- Proof of financial means to cover tuition and living expenses during the stay,
- Valid health insurance that meets national standards,
- Evidence of accommodation in Moldova (e.g., dormitory confirmation or rental agreement),
- A valid passport and a clean criminal record.
Fees and Processing Time
The cost of the student visa application typically falls between €90 and €140, depending on the consular service and processing speed. On average, the process takes 4 to 6 weeks, so early planning is advised.After Graduation: What’s Next?
Upon successful completion of their studies, international graduates have the option to transition to a work visa if they secure employment in Moldova. This can eventually lead to longer-term residence. Some may also pursue internships or further studies, extending their legal stay while enhancing their qualifications and language skills.Why Study in Moldova?
Moldova offers a safe, student-friendly environment with lower tuition fees and living costs compared to many other European countries. Cities like Chișinău provide access to modern amenities, while students enjoy a rich cultural experience and growing international academic networks.Family Reunification
For many individuals, the opportunity to reunite with loved ones is an essential part of settling into a new country. Moldova recognizes the importance of family unity and offers a dedicated family reunification pathway for relatives of Moldovan citizens and legal residents.
Who Can Apply?
The family reunification process is open to several categories of relatives, including:- Spouses of Moldovan citizens or residents,
- Minor children under 18,
- Dependent parents, particularly in cases where the sponsor provides financial or physical care,
- Unmarried partners with whom the sponsor shares a child and a stable relationship.
Visa Type and Application Process
Eligible applicants must apply for a Type D visa (long-stay visa for family reunification). The procedure consists of two main steps:- The sponsor — a Moldovan citizen or a foreign national with legal residence — must first submit a reunification request to the General Inspectorate for Migration in Moldova, accompanied by proof of relationship and adequate financial means.
- Once approved, the family member applies for the visa at the Moldovan embassy or consulate in their home country. Upon arrival in Moldova, they must apply for a temporary residence permit, which is typically issued for one year and can be renewed.
Fees and Duration
The application fee for the family reunification visa ranges from €80 to €130, depending on consular location and processing time. Applicants should allow 4 to 8 weeks for the full process, including in-country residence procedures.Path to Permanent Residency
After three years of continuous legal residence in Moldova under family reunification status, foreign nationals may become eligible to apply for permanent residency, provided they continue to live with and remain dependent on the sponsor.Why Choose Moldova for Family Life?
With its affordable cost of living, relaxed pace, and growing international community, Moldova offers a comfortable environment for families to settle and thrive. From accessible healthcare to family-friendly neighborhoods and expanding educational options, the country supports those looking to build a life close to their loved ones. For anyone hoping to reunite with family while starting a new chapter in a welcoming European destination, Moldova offers a clear and compassionate legal framework.Humanitarian & Religious Visas
Moldova provides special visas for individuals involved in humanitarian, religious, or protection-related activities.
Who Qualifies?
- Volunteers with NGOs working on social projects,
- Members of religious communities engaged in spiritual or charitable work,
- Refugees and stateless persons under international protection.
Visa Type and Purpose
Applicants receive either a Type D/AD visa for humanitarian work or a Type D/RO visa for religious activities. These visas allow temporary residence to support their mission.
Requirements
Applicants must present:
- Sponsorship from a recognized organization or religious body,
- A clear statement of purpose,
- A clean background check,
- Valid travel documents.
Why Moldova?
Moldova offers a welcoming environment for humanitarian and religious workers, as well as protection for refugees, ensuring legal residence and support during their stay.
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Short-Term Stay & Visa-Free Access
- Moldova welcomes citizens from over 100 countries who can enter the country without a visa for short visits, making it a convenient option for travelers and business visitors alike.
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Who Can Enter Visa-Free?
Nationals of numerous countries benefit from visa-free access, allowing them to stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This arrangement covers tourism, business trips, and other short-term purposes. -
Common Uses
Many use this visa-free entry to explore potential business opportunities, scout locations, attend professional meetings, or initiate applications such as the digital nomad visa. It’s an ideal option for those wanting to experience Moldova before committing to a longer stay. -
Important Consideration
Visitors intending to stay beyond this 90-day limit must transition to an appropriate residence permit before their visa-free period expires. Staying beyond the allowed timeframe without proper documentation may lead to penalties or restrictions.
Retirement & Passive Income (Not Formalized)
Currently, Moldova does not have a specific visa category tailored for retirees. However, individuals living on passive income—such as pensions, investments, or rental earnings—can still consider relocating by using existing long-term visa options.
Possible Routes: Many retirees choose to enter Moldova through the visa-free program (if eligible) or by applying for the newly introduced digital nomad visa. From there, it is possible to transition to other long-stay permits, such as those linked to investment or residence, provided the applicant can demonstrate sufficient financial means and suitable accommodation.
Key Considerations: While no dedicated retirement visa exists yet, Moldova’s flexible immigration framework allows those with stable passive income to legally reside and enjoy the country’s affordable lifestyle and welcoming environment.
Permanent Residence & Citizenship
Moldova offers a clear and attainable pathway for those seeking to establish long-term roots in the country through permanent residency and eventual citizenship.
Permanent Residency
Foreign nationals may apply for permanent residence after completing 3 to 5 years of uninterrupted legal stay, with the exact duration depending on the type of visa held. To qualify, applicants must demonstrate a degree of integration, including basic proficiency in the Romanian language and evidence of meaningful connections to the local community, such as employment, family ties, or social involvement.
Citizenship by Naturalization
After fulfilling residency requirements, individuals can pursue citizenship through naturalization. This process generally requires 10 years of lawful residence in Moldova or a shorter period of 5 years for those already holding permanent resident status. Importantly, Moldova permits dual citizenship, allowing new citizens to retain their original nationality while embracing Moldovan citizenship.
Conclusion
In 2025, Moldova presents a wide array of immigration options designed to accommodate remote professionals, business founders, students, skilled employees, and family members alike. As the country advances toward deeper integration with the European Union and enhances its digital infrastructure, it is rapidly becoming one of Eastern Europe’s most welcoming and accessible destinations for those seeking long-term residence. Moldova’s evolving landscape offers both opportunity and stability, making it an attractive choice for anyone looking to build a future in the region.
FAQ about Immigrate to Moldova
Can I move to Moldova as a remote worker?
Yes. Moldova introduced a digital nomad visa in 2025, allowing remote workers with stable income to live and work legally for up to two years.
What are the main ways to immigrate to Moldova?
Popular routes include work visas, study visas, family reunification, investment immigration, and the new digital nomad visa.
How long does it take to get permanent residency in Moldova?
Permanent residency is available after 3 to 5 years of continuous legal residence, depending on the visa category.
Is dual citizenship allowed in Moldova?
Yes, Moldova permits dual citizenship, so you can retain your original nationality while becoming a Moldovan citizen.
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