New rules for foreigners in Moldova: Law published in Official Journal

The promulgation decree and the new law on the regime of foreigners from non-EU states present on the territory of the Republic of Moldova have been published in the Official Journal and will enter into force on June 1, 2027, after the full harmonization of the national legal framework with the European Union’s migration acquis.

The normative act, drafted by the Ministry of Internal Affairs, establishes a unified legal framework for the admission, stay, registration, and monitoring of foreigners present in the Republic of Moldova. The authorities claim that the new provisions will contribute to the digitalization of procedures, the standardization of administrative processes, and an increase in the country’s attractiveness for investors and foreign labor.

The law introduces a differentiated system of stay based on duration—short stay (up to 90 days) and long stay (more than 90 days)—as well as based on purpose, including work, studies, research, exchange programs, investment activity, family reunification, or volunteering.

At the same time, facilities are provided for attracting investors, entrepreneurs, highly qualified workers, specialists in shortage occupations, and seasonal workers.

The document also introduces terms harmonized with European Union legislation, such as intra-corporate transferee (ICT), au pair worker, seasonal worker permit, as well as notions such as marriage of convenience or illegal stay.

Another novelty is the introduction of the Residence Card, a single identity document for foreigners who are legally present in the Republic of Moldova. The law further provides for the obligation to present proof of means of subsistence, domicile, and the purpose of stay, as well as the introduction of the concept of risk profile for assessing threats to national security, public order, and public health. It also sets out the procedure for the removal of foreigners who do not comply with the residence regime.

For the region on the left bank of the Dniester River, the law establishes special conditions for granting and extending the right of stay, through additional documentation, which represents the only legal instrument by which the Republic of Moldova can keep records of these persons, prevent irregular stay, and ensure the uniform application of national legislation.

Currently, there are over 21,500 foreigners and stateless persons from about 130 states in the Republic of Moldova. Approximately 5,600 people have the right of permanent stay, while around 16,000 hold the right of temporary stay.