Guide to Residency in Moldova

Obtaining a residency visa in Moldova is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Moldova gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Research Moldova's residency requirements
  • Visit the official website of the Bureau for Migration and Asylum of Moldova at http://bma.gov.md/en to understand the types of residency permits available and their specific requirements.
  • Identify the type of residency permit that applies to your situation (e.g., work, study, family reunification, investment).
• Prepare the necessary documents
  • Gather personal identification documents such as your passport and birth certificate.
  • Obtain a criminal record check from your home country and any other country where you have lived for more than 12 months in the past 3 years.
  • Acquire proof of accommodation in Moldova, such as a rental agreement or property ownership documents.
  • Prepare proof of financial means to support yourself during your stay in Moldova.
  • Get health insurance that is valid in Moldova for the duration of your intended stay.
• Apply for a Tax Number
  • Visit the State Tax Service website at https://servicii.fisc.md/en/individuals/ to learn about the process of obtaining a tax number.
  • Fill out the application form for a tax number, which can be found on the State Tax Service website.
  • Submit the application form along with a copy of your identification document to the nearest fiscal body.
• Apply for the residency permit
  • Complete the application form for the residency permit, which can be downloaded from the Bureau for Migration and Asylum website.
  • Attach all the prepared documents, including your tax number, to your application.
  • Submit the application and documents in person at the Bureau for Migration and Asylum or at a diplomatic mission or consular office of Moldova if you are applying from abroad.
• Pay the application fee
  • Find out the current fee for the residency permit application on the Bureau for Migration and Asylum website.
  • Make the payment at a bank or online, if available, and obtain a payment confirmation receipt.
• Attend the interview
  • After submitting your application, you may be required to attend an interview at the Bureau for Migration and Asylum or at the diplomatic mission where you applied.
  • Prepare to answer questions about your reasons for moving to Moldova and your plans during your stay.
• Wait for the decision
  • Residency permit processing times can vary, so check the expected processing time on the Bureau for Migration and Asylum website.
  • Keep track of your application status and be prepared to provide additional information if requested.
• Collect your residency permit
  • If your application is approved, you will be notified about where and when you can collect your residency permit.
  • Go to the specified location with your identification document to collect your permit.
• Register your place of residence
  • Within 30 days of receiving your residency permit, you must register your place of residence with the local public administration authorities.
  • Provide your residency permit and proof of accommodation when registering.

Please note that the above steps are a general guide and the specific requirements and procedures may change. It is important to verify the current process and requirements with the official Moldovan authorities or seek assistance from a legal professional specializing in Moldovan immigration law.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Moldova?

"In order to visit Moldova, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, and other supporting documents such as a letter of invitation from a Moldovan citizen or a hotel reservation. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Moldova, foreign nationals must submit an application to the Migration and Asylum Bureau. The application must include a valid passport, a valid visa, proof of financial means, and a medical certificate. The applicant must also provide a criminal record certificate from their home country. Once the application is approved, the applicant will be issued a residence permit," commented one member living in Moldova.