Mobility of European Union citizens in Moldova to be facilitated

The government has approved a draft law which facilitates free movement and simplifies the process of getting the right of residence in Moldova for all citizens of the European Union, citizens of the Schengen Area countries, and their family members.

EU citizens will have clear and simplified conditions for entry and residence in  Moldova. They will enjoy free access to the labor market, equal treatment and labor protection under the same conditions as Moldovan citizens. The draft also regulates the rights of family members of EU citizens, who will be able to live, study and work in Moldova.

To benefit from the right of residence for a period longer than 90 days, EU citizens will need to get a residence card, with the procedure being simple, quick and transparent. The residence card will be issued within a maximum of 3 working days and will be valid for a period of 5 years, without the need to justify the purpose of stay.

Eligibility conditions are also provided for the right of permanent residence in Moldova after a legal and continuous stay of at least 5 years.

At the same time, situations are stipulated in which individuals may be denied entry to and exit from the country in justified cases related to security, public order, or health.