Foreign citizens in Moldova could benefit from new integration measures, while some rules concerning asylum seekers and people with temporary protection could also change. The National Security, Defense and Public Order Committee will propose that Parliament examine in the first reading a bill drafted by the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
One of the main proposed changes is the creation of a working group made up of representatives of central and local authorities and other institutions involved in the integration process. The group would assess the needs of foreign citizens and, in more complex cases, could help develop individual integration plans.
The bill also proposes combining sociocultural orientation sessions with introductory Romanian language courses.
Another proposed change concerns financial assistance provided to asylum seekers. The payments would be eliminated, as authorities say basic needs such as accommodation, food and clothing are already covered through other mechanisms provided by law.
Under the draft, people with legal residence status would also gain access to certain additional rights. Foreign citizens holding residence cards would be able to become members of savings and loan associations, a right currently reserved for citizens and stateless persons.
The bill also provides for emergency legal assistance for people held in public custody through the appointment of a duty lawyer. At the same time, applicants seeking recognition as stateless persons would be eligible for legal assistance regardless of their income.
Beneficiaries of temporary protection would be included among those eligible for employment support measures, including unemployment benefits. Participation in these measures would not automatically affect their status if their residence document expires during this period.
Most of the provisions would enter into force on January 1, 2027. An exception would be the provisions related to the new law on the admission, residence and supervision of foreign citizens, which are expected to apply from June 1, 2027.
Currently, foreign citizens can request integration measures through the Integration Centers for Foreigners operated by the General Inspectorate for Migration.
According to data presented by the authorities, 162 people used these services last year. Most were Ukrainian citizens — 100 people — followed by citizens of the Russian Federation, with 18 people, and Turkish citizens, with four.