National Bank of Moldova simplifies foreign exchange rules: transfers, investments of up to 100,000 euros without authorization

Individuals and companies of Moldova will be able to carry out certain foreign exchange transactions of up to 100,000 euros without authorization from the National Bank of Moldova (BNM), compared with the current threshold of 10,000 euros. The new rules will enter into force on November 20, 2026, and aim to simplify financial operations with foreign countries, in line with European Union standards.

The amendments are provided for by Law No. 226 amending the Law on Foreign Exchange Regulation, published in the Official Journal on October 20. According to the BNM, the threshold will increase to 250,000 euros starting from January 1, 2028.

The new provisions cover more types of transactions, including the purchase of foreign shares, bonds and fund units; granting loans and donations to non-resident individuals or companies; providing guarantees in their favor; opening bank accounts abroad for certain operations and conducting foreign exchange transactions abroad.

For example, a person domiciled in Moldova will be able to grant a 100,000-euros loan to a non-resident without requesting authorization from the BNM. Presently, such an operation requires authorization from the central bank.

Another amendment provides that residents will be able to purchase foreign financial instruments, regardless of the amount and without BNM authorization, when these instruments are admitted for trading on Moldova’s capital or money market.

At the same time, investment firms, non-bank lending organizations and insurance and reinsurance companies will be able to grant loans and credits to non-residents without authorization, regardless of the amount, provided they comply with the rules specific to their fields of activity. Non-bank payment service providers will also be able to open accounts with banks abroad without additional authorization, if the accounts are necessary for the activities for which they are licensed.

The amendments also provide for an increase in the monthly limit for foreign-currency cash withdrawals abroad using cards issued by banks of Moldova. Starting November 20, 2026, the limit will increase from 10,000 euros to 100,000 euros per account, and from January 1, 2028, it will reach 250,000 euros per month. The change applies to card transactions and does not alter the rules on taking cash across the border.

The law will also allow resident individuals who emigrate to open accounts with banks abroad without BNM authorization, either when establishing their domicile abroad or during their stay there.

Starting from November 20, resident individuals will be able to pay in foreign currency, including in cash, for purchases made at commercial establishments in international airports located beyond customs and border control, in the direction of departure from the country. Hotels of Moldova will also be allowed to accept payments in foreign currency from non-resident customers.

The new provisions will also allow foreign exchange offices and hotels holding an BNM license for currency exchange to provide payment services, including money transfers and cash deposits and withdrawals, if they are registered as agents of licensed payment service providers.

Another stage of the reform will begin on October 1, 2027, when the obligation to notify the BNM of external loans and credits received by residents from non-residents and covered by the law will be eliminated. Until then, the current notification and reporting requirements will continue to apply.

The BNM emphasizes that the simplification of foreign exchange procedures does not eliminate measures to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing. Banks and other payment service providers will continue to monitor transactions and request, when necessary, documents concerning the source of funds and the purpose of operations.

According to the central bank, the amendments are part of Moldova’s European integration process and bring national legislation closer to European Union rules on the free movement of capital.