Moldova simplifies conditions for residence for European Union citizens

The parliament today approved, in the first reading, a draft law on the free movement and residence of European Union citizens and their family members in Moldova. The new legislation establishes a clear and simplified framework, aligned with European standards, facilitating EU citizens' access to Moldova for periods longer than 90 days.

The draft provides equal rights for EU citizens and their family members regarding access to employment, education and medical services, providing conditions equivalent to those of Moldovan citizens. The General Inspectorate for Migration will handle the registration of individuals.

For stays exceeding 90 days, EU citizens will be able to get a five-year residence card, issued within a maximum of three working days through a simple and transparent procedure. The law also regulates conditions for permanent residence after a legal and continuous stay of at least five years, as well as situations where entry or exit from the country can be refused on grounds of security, public order, or health.

The initiative was developed by the Interior Ministry and the Ministry of Labor and Social Protection.