Moldova has established a clear framework for foreign nationals seeking to live and work within its borders. This system involves obtaining the appropriate visa to enter the country and subsequently securing a work permit that authorizes employment. The process is designed to regulate the labor market and ensure compliance with national immigration and employment laws, requiring careful attention to detail from both prospective employees and their sponsoring employers.
Navigating the requirements for work authorization in Moldova involves understanding the specific visa categories available, the detailed application procedures for work permits, and the ongoing obligations once authorization is granted. Employers play a crucial role in sponsoring foreign workers, undertaking responsibilities related to documentation, compliance, and reporting to relevant authorities.
Common Visa Types for Foreign Workers
Foreign nationals intending to work in Moldova typically require a long-stay visa for employment purposes. The most relevant category is the D/AM visa. This visa allows individuals to enter Moldova with the intention of seeking or taking up employment based on a pre-approved work permit or a promise of employment from a Moldovan entity.
Eligibility for the D/AM visa is primarily linked to having a job offer or a valid work permit application supported by a Moldovan employer. Applicants must demonstrate they meet the specific criteria set by the Moldovan authorities, including having the necessary qualifications for the intended role and meeting general immigration requirements.
Required documentation for the D/AM visa application typically includes:
- Valid passport
- Visa application form
- Recent passport-sized photos
- Proof of accommodation in Moldova
- Proof of sufficient financial means
- Medical insurance
- Invitation letter from the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI) based on the approved work permit or employment promise
- Proof of qualifications (diplomas, certificates)
- Criminal record certificate
Visa fees and processing times can vary. As of early 2025, the standard visa fee is approximately €80, though expedited processing may incur higher costs. Processing times can range from 10 to 30 days, depending on the applicant's nationality and the complexity of the case.
Work Permit Application Requirements and Procedures
Obtaining a work permit is a separate but often concurrent process with the visa application. The work permit is issued by the General Inspectorate for Immigration (IGI). The application process is primarily initiated by the sponsoring employer in Moldova.
The employer must demonstrate that they have attempted to fill the position with a Moldovan national and that the foreign worker possesses unique skills or qualifications necessary for the role. There are quotas and specific conditions that employers must meet to be eligible to hire foreign workers.
Key requirements and procedures for the work permit application:
- Employer Requirements:
- Registration of the company in Moldova.
- Proof of inability to find a suitable local candidate (often requires advertising the position).
- Submission of company registration documents, financial statements, and details about the job position.
- Payment of application fees.
- Employee Requirements:
- Valid passport.
- Proof of qualifications relevant to the job.
- Medical certificate.
- Criminal record certificate from the country of origin.
- Employment contract or job offer from the Moldovan employer.
The work permit application process involves submitting documentation to the IGI. Once approved, the IGI issues an invitation letter or confirmation that the employee can use to apply for the D/AM visa at a Moldovan diplomatic mission abroad. Upon arrival in Moldova with the D/AM visa, the foreign national must register with the IGI and obtain the physical work permit card and a temporary residence permit.
Processing time for the work permit application itself can take between 30 and 60 days, sometimes longer depending on the workload of the IGI and the complexity of the application. Fees for the work permit application and issuance are separate from visa fees and can vary based on the duration of the permit.
Pathways to Permanent Residency
Foreign nationals who have legally resided and worked in Moldova for a significant period may become eligible to apply for permanent residency. Generally, continuous legal residence for a period of five years is a common requirement, although specific conditions and exceptions may apply.
The path to permanent residency typically involves transitioning from a temporary residence permit (obtained after securing a work permit and arriving on a D/AM visa) to a long-term or permanent residence status. Applicants must demonstrate stable income, integration into Moldovan society, knowledge of the Romanian language (the official language), and a clean criminal record.
The application for permanent residency is submitted to the IGI. The process involves a thorough review of the applicant's residence history, financial stability, and compliance with Moldovan laws.
Dependent Visa Options
Foreign workers holding a valid work permit and temporary residence permit in Moldova can typically apply for visas and residence permits for their immediate family members. This usually includes spouses and minor children.
The process for dependents involves applying for a D/VF (family reunification) visa at a Moldovan diplomatic mission abroad. The main applicant (the foreign worker) must demonstrate they have sufficient financial means and adequate accommodation in Moldova to support their dependents.
Required documentation for dependent visas often includes:
- Proof of the relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificates).
- Main applicant's valid work permit and residence permit details.
- Proof of financial support.
- Proof of accommodation.
- Dependents' passports, photos, and visa application forms.
- Medical insurance for dependents.
Once dependents arrive in Moldova on the D/VF visa, they must also register with the IGI and apply for temporary residence permits based on family reunification. These permits are usually tied to the validity of the main applicant's residence permit.
Visa Compliance Obligations
Both employers and foreign employees have significant compliance obligations under Moldovan immigration and labor laws. Adherence to these rules is critical to maintain legal status and avoid penalties.
Employer Obligations:
- Ensure the foreign worker has the correct visa and work permit before commencing employment.
- Register the employment contract with the relevant labor authorities.
- Notify the IGI of any changes in the employee's status (e.g., termination of employment, change of address).
- Maintain accurate records of foreign employees.
- Comply with all Moldovan labor laws regarding working conditions, wages, and social contributions.
- Assist the employee with necessary documentation for permit renewals.
Employee Obligations:
- Maintain a valid passport, visa, work permit, and residence permit.
- Notify the IGI of any changes in personal details or circumstances (e.g., change of address, marital status).
- Comply with the terms and conditions of their work permit and residence permit.
- Adhere to Moldovan laws and regulations.
- Apply for permit renewals in a timely manner before expiry.
- Leave Moldova upon expiry of permits if not renewed or if employment ceases, unless transitioning to another legal status.
Failure to comply with these obligations can result in significant penalties, including fines for both the employer and employee, deportation of the foreign national, and potential bans on future entry into Moldova. Maintaining open communication with the IGI and seeking professional advice is recommended to ensure full compliance.
