An increasing number of descendants of Moldovans who emigrated abroad are applying to regain Moldovan citizenship—either to strengthen their connection to ancestral roots or to access the benefits of closer ties with the European Union.
Russian media outlets have highlighted this trend among Russian-speaking migrants, noting that one of the most common paths is citizenship by origin. This legal provision allows individuals with blood ties to former Moldovan citizens to reclaim citizenship, even up to the third generation.
“Moldovan law recognizes citizenship through lineage up to great-grandchildren,” reports Rbc.ru. “If a person’s grandfather or great-grandfather held Moldovan citizenship or lived in historical regions such as Bessarabia, Northern Bukovina, or the former Moldovan SSR, their descendants can apply.”
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To apply, individuals must submit a full dossier, which includes a valid passport, birth certificates along the direct lineage, and proof of the ancestor’s citizenship. For great-grandchildren, the process requires greater documentation to establish a clear genealogical link across three generations.
If some documents are missing or damaged, applicants may provide alternative evidence—such as archived records, notarized declarations, or court decisions. Applications can be submitted both within Moldova and at Moldovan consulates abroad. The standard processing time is 30 days.
“Regaining Moldovan citizenship offers numerous advantages,” the article states. “These include visa-free travel to the Schengen area, the right to live and work in the EU amid Moldova’s ongoing European integration, and access to European healthcare and education. Moldovan law also allows dual citizenship, making this path especially attractive.”