The stay of foreigners from non-EU countries in the Republic of Moldova will be regulated under a new law aligned with European Union standards. Lawmakers approved the draft in its second reading with 61 votes.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Moldova developed the project to establish a clear and coherent legal framework governing the admission, stay, monitoring, and registration of foreigners. The law introduces a unified system of rules based on the duration of stay—short-term (up to 90 days) and long-term (over 90 days)—and adapts them according to the purpose of stay, including employment, studies, research, investment, family reunification, student exchange programs, or volunteering.
The legislation also introduces concepts aligned with EU legal standards, such as admission procedures, seasonal worker permits, intra-corporate transferees (ICT), au pair arrangements, pseudo-legalization of foreigners, and marriages of convenience. At the same time, authorities will require employers in Moldova to offer foreign workers salaries equal to those of Moldovan citizens performing similar work, aiming to reduce risks of exploitation and economic vulnerability.
Another key provision introduces a unified document—the residence card—which authorities will issue to all foreigners legally residing in the country, regardless of the purpose of their stay.
Under the new law, foreigners must prove sufficient financial means, provide evidence of accommodation or residence in Moldova, and submit documents justifying the purpose of their stay. Authorities will also apply risk profiling and assessment tools related to national security, public order, and public health, alongside procedures for removing foreign citizens who violate residence rules.
For residents of the Transnistrian region, the law sets special conditions for granting and extending residence rights, including additional documentation. Authorities say this mechanism will help maintain accurate records, prevent irregular stays, and ensure uniform application of national legislation.
The law will enter into force in June 2027, after Moldova completes the alignment of its national legal framework with the EU migration acquis.
Currently, Moldova hosts over 21,500 foreigners and stateless persons from around 130 countries. The number of residence applications continues to grow. According to recent data, about 5,600 foreigners hold permanent residence permits, while approximately 16,000 have temporary residence status.