Verified Facts

Official NameRepublic of Moldova
CapitalChișinău
Population2.7 million
Area33,847 km² (13,068 sq mi)
LanguagesRomanian
CurrencyMoldovan leu (L)
TimezoneUTC+02:00
RegionEurope / Eastern Europe
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API

Visa rules change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate of Moldova before traveling.

Visa Policy Overview

Moldova has a relatively liberal visa policy, allowing citizens of over 60 countries to enter visa-free. The country is a member of the European Commonwealth and has a growing tourist industry, making it an attractive destination for travelers. Citizens of European Union countries, as well as those from the United States, Canada, and Australia, can enter Moldova without a visa for a specified period. However, it is essential to note that visa requirements can change, and it is crucial to check with the Moldovan embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information.

Moldova's visa policy is designed to promote tourism and business, while also ensuring the security and safety of its citizens. The country offers various types of visas, including tourist, business, and student visas, each with its own set of requirements and regulations. Visitors can stay in Moldova for a maximum period of 90 days within a 180-day period, provided they meet the necessary requirements and have the required documents.

Requirements By Nationality

NationalityVisa Required?TypeMax StayNotes
US CitizensNoVisa-free90 daysMust have a valid passport
UK CitizensNoVisa-free90 daysMust have a valid passport
EU CitizensNoVisa-free90 daysMust have a valid passport or ID card
Canadian CitizensNoVisa-free90 daysMust have a valid passport
Australian CitizensNoVisa-free90 daysMust have a valid passport
Indian CitizensYeseVisa90 daysMust apply online in advance
Chinese CitizensYesVisa required90 daysMust apply at a Moldovan embassy or consulate

By Visitor Type

Tourists: Tourists can enter Moldova visa-free for a maximum stay of 90 days. They must have a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and sufficient funds for their stay. Extensions are possible, but visitors must apply at a local immigration office before their initial stay expires.

Business Travelers: Business travelers may need to provide an invitation letter from a Moldovan company, as well as proof of their business activities. They may also need to register with the local authorities and obtain a temporary residence permit.

Students: Students must provide proof of enrollment at a Moldovan university, as well as a valid passport and health insurance. They may need to apply for a student visa, which can be issued for a maximum period of one year.

Workers: Workers must have a valid work permit, which can be issued by the Moldovan authorities. They must also have a valid passport, health insurance, and a contract with a Moldovan employer.

Documents Checklist

  1. Valid passport with at least six months' validity
  2. Proof of onward travel (e.g., return ticket or travel itinerary)
  3. Sufficient funds for the duration of stay (approximately 20-30 euros per day)
  4. Health insurance that covers Moldova
  5. Invitation letter (for business travelers or students)
  6. Proof of enrollment (for students)
  7. Work permit (for workers)
  8. Contract with a Moldovan employer (for workers)
  9. Proof of accommodation (e.g., hotel reservation or rental agreement)
  10. Proof of payment for any fees associated with the visa application (if required)

Entry Points & Procedures

Moldova has two international airports: Chisinau International Airport and Balti International Airport. The main entry point is Chisinau International Airport, which receives flights from major European cities. Visitors can also enter Moldova by land or sea, with border crossings available from Romania and Ukraine. Upon arrival, visitors must present their passport and any required documents to the immigration officer. They will be issued a stamp in their passport, which indicates the duration of their stay.

Visitors should ensure that they have all the necessary documents and information before arriving in Moldova. The immigration process is generally straightforward, but it is essential to have all the required documents to avoid any issues or delays. Visitors can also expect to be questioned by immigration officers about the purpose of their visit, their accommodation, and their onward travel plans.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Not having a valid passport with at least six months' validity
  • Not having sufficient funds for the duration of stay
  • Not having health insurance that covers Moldova
  • Not having the required documents (e.g., invitation letter, proof of enrollment)
  • Not registering with the local authorities (if required)
  • Not extending the stay before the initial stay expires (if necessary)