Moldova Launches Digital Nomad Visa: Conditions, Duration, and Prospects

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Starting September 20, 2025, Moldova will introduce its Digital Nomad Visa program. Foreigners working remotely will be able to reside in the country for up to two years, reports Travel and Tour World. Experts highlight that it is one of the most affordable digital nomad visa options in Europe.

Categories and Requirements

The program targets three categories of applicants:

Employees of foreign companies,

Freelancers with international clients,

Entrepreneurs operating businesses abroad or owning shares in foreign firms.

The key requirement is a stable external income, ensuring financial independence from the Moldovan labor market. The residence permit will be issued for two years with the option to extend for an additional five years.

According to VisitWorld, applicants must demonstrate a monthly income of $1,500–$2,000, provide proof of remote work or business ownership, medical insurance valid in Moldova for one year, a clean criminal record, and a lease or property ownership contract. The passport must be valid for at least six months. Applications can be filed at the Bureau for Migration and Asylum (BMA) or online, with processing fees between €40–€80. After arrival, visa holders must register with local migration police and obtain a residence card.

Economic and Legislative Context

The Moldovan government officially approved the legislative changes on April 29, 2025, marking the first time the country formally regulated remote workers. The Ministry of Economic Development and Digitalization noted that each digital nomad could contribute approximately 186,000 MDL (€9,600) annually through housing, services, and taxes.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economic Development Doina Nistor stated that Moldova expects up to 1,500 digital nomads per year, generating a total economic impact of 280 million MDL (€14.5 million). Beyond financial benefits, officials expect knowledge exchange and innovation in technology, creative industries, tourism, and communications.

Advantages for Nomads

Moldova offers a calm environment, friendly communities, a moderate climate, and a cultural mix of Romanian, Russian, and Ukrainian traditions. Rent is comparatively low: in central Chișinău, a one-bedroom apartment costs €400–€500, while overall monthly living expenses range from €800–€1,200. According to Numbeo, the average rent in the city center is 18,000 MDL (€584), while a three-bedroom apartment costs around €1,046.

Challenges and Political Climate

The launch comes amid modest economic growth: GDP fell by 1.2% in Q1 2025, with forecasts from the IMF (+0.6%), World Bank (+0.9%), and EBRD (+1.8%). Inflation has slowed to 7.9% in Q2, with expectations to meet the target level by 2026.

However, the political climate remains tense ahead of the September 28 parliamentary elections. President Maia Sandu’s PAS party faces declining support, while opposition forces—including pro-Russian blocs—are gaining ground. Regional tensions in Gagauzia have deepened following the sentencing of Governor Evghenia Guțul for illegal financing. Meanwhile, relations with Russia remain strained, especially after Chișinău revoked Moldovagaz’s license, prompting criticism from Gazprom.