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Residence in Moldova: permits and requirements

WorkFamilyStudyPermanentInternational Protection
Verified: 2026-10-11Informational guide; the linked official source is the valid reference.5 types

Living legally in Moldova is possible through 5 permit types: work, family, study, permanent, international protection. Each program has its own requirements; below are the duration, renewal, costs and documentation according to the country's official sources.

Temporary Residence Permit for Work

Residence type #1 of 5

For foreigners with a work contract in Moldova. Applied for at the Bureau for Migration and Asylum.

Requirements

  • Registered work contract
  • The employer must obtain an employment authorization
  • Registered accommodation
  • Health insurance

Documentation

  • Work contract
  • Valid passport
  • Employer's employment authorization
  • Health insurance
  • Criminal record certificate
  • Photos
  • Translations into Romanian
Duration: 1 year (renewable)
Renewable
Official link

Frequently asked questions about residence in Moldova

How many types of residence permits are there in Moldova?

Moldova offers 5 residence permit types, grouped into the categories work, family, study, permanent, international protection. Each permit has its own requirements, duration and documentation, detailed in this fact sheet according to the country's official sources.

How long do residence permits in Moldova last?

Durations vary by permit type: 1 year (renewable); Indefinite (card valid for 5 years); Humanitarian protection: 1 year renewable; refugee: indefinite status (Law 270/2008). The exact details of each type appear in the corresponding fact sheet.

Can residence permits in Moldova be renewed?

Yes. All residence permit types of Moldova (5 in total) are renewable before their expiration, according to the rules of each program.

What documentation is usually required to reside in Moldova?

Although each permit requires its own file, the most recurrent documents are: Valid passport; Photos; Seguro médico; Certificado de antecedentes penales. The complete list by residence type appears in each fact sheet, together with the corresponding official link.

Does residence in Moldova lead to nationality?

Yes, through the Naturalization by residence pathway, which requires 10 years of legal residence. The complete requirements are in the nationality fact sheet of Moldova.

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