New Law on Moldovan citizenship comes into effect: applications submitted exclusively by appointment, stricter verification rules

The new Law on Moldova’s citizenship has come into effect, bringing significant changes to the procedure for submitting and considering applications for acquiring the citizenship. The Public Services Agency (ASP) informs that, starting from December 24, 2025, all applications for citizenship services will be received exclusively based on a prior appointment.

Appointments can be made on the official website of the Public Services Agency, under the section 'Service Appointments', in the field of 'Identity Documents', in the service 'Citizenship Matters'.

‘’The submission of applications will be possible at the multifunctional centers in Chisinau municipality. Applications submitted before the date of the entrance into force of the new regulations will be reviewed according to the previous procedure set by the applicable legislation up to this date, ‘’ ASP said.

The new law excludes the possibility of submitting applications through intermediaries or proxies. This measure aims to eliminate corrupt schemes in which certain individuals got services for a fee. According to the new regulations, applications can be submitted only in person, at ASP subdivisions or at the diplomatic missions and consular offices of Moldova, depending on the applicant's domicile or place of residence. In the case of children and individuals under guardianship, the application will be submitted by the legal representative. A similar practice is applied in more European countries, including Romania, Belgium, Poland, Sweden, Austria, Cyprus or Croatia.

‘’At the same time, the new provisions strengthen control and make applicants more accountable. Anyone willing to acquire Moldovan citizenship, regardless of the basis, must prove knowledge of the Romanian language and the Constitution of Moldova, and the checks will be rigorous and effective, not just formal. The law also introduces stricter verification mechanisms, including rigorous identity verification; authenticity verification of documents submitted; travel history analysis; assessment of financial capacities; verification of the absence of criminal records,’’ the cited source noted.

In the context of intensified regional migration and Moldova’s commitment to harmonizing its legislation with European Union standards, authorities emphasize that citizenship can no longer be treated as a mere formality, but as a right that entails clear obligations towards the state and society. The new law strongly signals that Moldova values its citizenship and will grant it only to those who respect the values, laws and identity of the state.

The Public Services Agency urges citizens to get information solely from official sources and to observe the preliminary appointment procedure, noting that this is a mandatory condition for accessing citizenship services within the new legal framework.

Additional information can be consulted on the official page of the Public Services Agency, on the Public Services Portal - www.servicii.gov.md, as well as through the Customer Support Service of the Agency.