Russians Increasingly Denied Entry to Moldova: Russian Foreign Ministry Warns of Harsh Border Controls

The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued an official warning about the discriminatory treatment of Russian citizens by Moldovan border authorities. According to the ministry, Russians arriving in Chișinău are frequently subjected to biased and degrading procedures, with dozens refused entry each day.

Border Inspections Without Basic Rights

The MFA notes that Russian travelers, including children, may be held for hours during border inspections without access to food, water, or communication. These checks often end in entry denials — sometimes under false pretenses or with no explanation at all.

Russian diplomatic missions are frequently denied access to citizens being held, significantly limiting consular support.

Systemic Entry Denials

Cases cited in media outlets suggest a systematic issue. In June 2024, a Russian family was denied entry over “insufficient proof” of travel purpose and financial means.

In July, 161.ru reported that two Russian women — one a lawyer from Arkhangelsk — were stopped at the airport, had their phones confiscated, and were interrogated for hours. Authorities reviewed their messages and photos before denying entry under Article 8 of Law No. 200 without specifying any violation. They were held for 48 hours in the transit zone without food, water, or outside contact before being deported.

In December 2024, Point.md reported a case where a Russian blogger was denied entry at the airport, only to be admitted the same day after contacting a lawyer and filing an appeal.

Border Issues for Dual Citizens

Even Moldovan citizens trying to enter the country using their Russian passports have occasionally been denied. Border officials insist that Moldovan citizens must show Moldovan identification. In one such case reported by Noi.md, the issue was resolved after identity confirmation.

Since 2023, Russians with dual Moldovan citizenship are not allowed to leave Russia using their Moldovan passports. According to eNews.md, they must travel using a valid Russian international passport, as Russia does not recognize second citizenships unless covered by a bilateral agreement (like with Tajikistan). No such agreement exists with Moldova, leading to growing complications for Moldovans residing in Russia.

Political Shift and Security Measures

Experts attribute the tightened controls to Chișinău’s pro-EU orientation and increased focus on border security. The heightened scrutiny followed a tragic June 2023 incident, in which a Tajik citizen fatally shot two people after being denied entry at the Chișinău airport — as Kommersant reported.

Since then, travelers from CIS countries have faced heightened vetting.

Travel Advice for Russian Citizens

Human rights advocates urge Russian travelers to carry complete documentation, including proof of purpose, sufficient funds, and return tickets. In case of entry refusal, travelers should demand a written explanation, try to document the situation, and have legal contacts and consular emergency numbers prepared in advance.