Moldova Digital Nomad Visa

Nadia Dardón

Immigration Content Writer

Last update 8 September, 2025

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Moldova Rating from Citizen Remote

Overall 4.2

Internet Infrastructure 4.0

Country Stability 4.0

Cost of Living 5.0

Ease of Obtaining Visa 4.0

Taxes 4.0

Quick Visa Facts

Visa length 1 year.

Possible to extend? Yes, renewable for a second year.

Who can apply? Remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs earning income from foreign sources.

Minimum Income Requirements Approximately $1,500–$2,000 per month.

Time for visa applications Typically 30–45 days.

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Dreaming of working remotely in a country that blends old-world charm with modern connectivity? Moldova is stepping onto the digital nomad map with a visa that allows remote professionals to live and work legally in the heart of Eastern Europe. Known for its affordable cost of living, welcoming culture, and growing tech scene, Moldova offers digital nomads the chance to enjoy a slower pace of life without sacrificing productivity.

Whether you’re a freelancer, entrepreneur, or remote employee, the Moldova Digital Nomad Visa makes it possible to explore a unique destination while maintaining your global career. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know, from eligibility and required documents to application steps and tax rules.

Moldova Digital Nomad Visa Overview

Moldova officially launched its Digital Nomad Visa, which is set to take effect on September 20, 2025. This program was created to attract remote professionals, freelancers, and entrepreneurs who earn their income from abroad, giving them the opportunity to live legally in Moldova while continuing their work online.

The visa is initially granted for one year, with the option to renew for a second year. In some cases, digital nomads who register locally may extend their stay for up to five years under Moldova’s residence rules. To qualify, applicants need to demonstrate a stable monthly income of around $1,500–$2,000 from foreign sources.

Who Is It For?

The Moldova Digital Nomad Visa is designed for:

Remote employees working for companies based outside Moldova.
Freelancers offering online services such as IT, design, consulting, or marketing.
Entrepreneurs managing a business registered abroad.

It is not open to those seeking local employment in Moldova or wishing to set up a Moldovan-registered company.

What Does It Allow You to Do?

Holders of the visa can:

Live in Moldova with legal residence status.
Work remotely for foreign companies or clients.
Obtain a Moldovan residence permit and ID card after arrival.
Enjoy an affordable lifestyle with modern internet infrastructure and proximity to both the EU and Eastern Europe,

However, digital nomads cannot work for Moldovan employers or receive income from Moldovan sources under this visa.

Moldova Digital Nomad Visa Requirements

To apply for the Moldova Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must prepare a set of documents to prove their eligibility. Below is a breakdown of the essentials:

Completed visa application form
Valid passport (with at least 6 months’ validity)
Recent passport-sized photographs
Proof of accommodation in Moldova (rental contract, hotel booking, or invitation letter)
Clean criminal record certificate from the country of residence
Application fee payment receipt

Proof of Financial Self-Sufficiency

Applicants must demonstrate they have a stable monthly income between $1,500 and $2,000 from foreign sources. This can typically be shown through:

Bank statements from the past 3–6 months
Employment contract with a foreign company
Freelance contracts or proof of ongoing client work
Dividend statements or proof of ownership of a business registered abroad

Private Health Insurance

Digital nomads are required to hold valid health insurance that covers the entire duration of their stay in Moldova. The policy should provide:

Coverage for medical emergencies
Hospitalization and repatriation
Validity across Moldova and, ideally, the wider European region

Travel insurance is not accepted; it must be long-term residency health insurance. You can find our recommendations for the best health insurance plans for digital nomads here.

Remote Work Documentation

Since this visa is designed specifically for remote professionals, applicants must also provide evidence of their online work setup. This can include:

Proof of employment with a foreign company
Evidence of freelance contracts with international clients
Documentation showing ownership of a business outside Moldova

How to Apply for the Moldova Digital Nomad Visa – Step-by-Step Instructions

Applying for the Moldova Digital Nomad Visa involves several stages, from preparing your documents to registering locally once you arrive. Below is a clear, step-by-step breakdown of the full process.

Step 1 – Gather All Required Documents

Before beginning the application, make sure you have all the necessary paperwork ready: passport, application form, photos, proof of income, health insurance, accommodation details, and any supporting documents.

Step 2 – Complete the Application Form

The official application form can be obtained from:

Moldova’s eVisa platform (if available for your nationality), or
The Moldovan consulate/embassy in your country.

Fill in all sections carefully. The form usually requires details about your personal background, travel purpose, accommodation, and proof of income. Any inconsistencies between your form and supporting documents may cause delays.

Step 3 – Submit Your Application

Submit your full application package through one of these channels:

Online submission (if available for your country of residence), or
In-person submission at a Moldovan consulate or embassy.

If applying in person, bring both the originals and photocopies of your documents. Some embassies may also request an in-person interview to confirm your remote work eligibility.

Step 4 – Pay the Application Fee

The visa fee must be paid at the time of submission. While fees can vary slightly depending on the location of your application, you can expect to pay between €80 and €100. Always keep the payment receipt, as it is part of your required documentation.

Step 5 – Wait for Processing

The Moldovan authorities will review your application to verify eligibility. Standard processing time is usually 30–45 days, though it can take longer if additional checks are needed. During this period, you may be asked to provide further proof of income or updated documents.

Step 6 – Receive Your Visa Approval and Travel to Moldova

If approved, you will receive a D-type long-stay visa (up to 90 days) that allows you to enter Moldova and complete your residence registration. This visa is a prerequisite for obtaining your Digital Nomad residence permit.

Step 7 – Register with the Bureau for Migration and Asylum

Within 30 days of arrival, you must register with the Bureau for Migration and Asylum in Chișinău. At this stage, you’ll submit your documents again, undergo biometric data collection, and apply for your residence card.

Step 8 – Receive Your Residence Permit

After successful registration, you’ll be issued a temporary residence permit valid for 1 year, with the option to renew for another year. This card officially grants you the right to live in Moldova under the Digital Nomad Visa.

Moldova Stay Requirements With the Digital Nomad Visa

Once approved for the Moldova Digital Nomad Visa, you are granted temporary residence for one year, with the possibility to extend it for a second year. To maintain your legal status, you must reside primarily in Moldova during this period and comply with the country’s migration regulations.

Upon arrival, you are required to register with the Bureau for Migration and Asylum within 30 days, provide biometric data, and obtain your residence card. You must also ensure that your health insurance remains valid for the full duration of your stay and continue to demonstrate sufficient income from foreign sources.

Holders of the visa are not permitted to take employment with Moldovan companies or earn income from within Moldova, as the program is strictly designed for remote workers with international clients or employers. Any changes to your circumstances, such as a new passport or a change of accommodation, must be reported to the authorities to avoid penalties or loss of status.

How Much Does the Moldova Digital Nomad Visa Cost?

The total cost of applying for the Moldova Digital Nomad Visa depends on several factors, including the visa application fee, residence permit issuance, and supporting expenses. The government fee for the visa itself is generally around €80–€100, payable when you submit your application at a Moldovan consulate or through the official system. In addition, once you arrive in Moldova, you will need to pay for the issuance of your residence permit card, which usually costs €50–€80 depending on processing time. Beyond these official charges, applicants should also budget for required documentation and services such as:

Certified translations of documents into Romanian
Criminal record certificate fees in your country of residence
Private health insurance for the full duration of your stay
Notary fees (if applicable)
Delivery or courier services for sending documents to the consulate

Altogether, most applicants can expect the process to cost between €200 and €350, excluding personal expenses like flights, accommodation, or relocation costs. Keeping these additional costs in mind will help ensure your budget covers both the application and the requirements to maintain legal residence in Moldova.

Taxes for People With a Moldova Digital Nomad Visa

One of the key considerations for remote professionals living in Moldova is understanding how the country treats taxation for digital nomads. Holders of the Moldova Digital Nomad Visa are allowed to live and work remotely in Moldova, but income must come from foreign sources. This distinction is important because your tax obligations depend on your residency status.

If you spend less than 183 days in Moldova within a calendar year, you are generally not considered a tax resident, and your foreign income is typically not subject to Moldovan income tax. However, if you exceed 183 days, you may be classified as a tax resident and could become liable for local taxes on worldwide income.

Digital nomads are responsible for keeping documentation of their foreign income, as Moldovan authorities may request proof to confirm that the funds are earned outside of the country. Additionally, it is recommended to maintain valid health insurance coverage and comply with all reporting requirements to avoid penalties.

It’s also important to note that the visa does not grant the right to work for Moldovan companies or generate income from local sources, so any employment within Moldova could trigger local taxation and violate visa conditions. Planning ahead and consulting a tax professional familiar with international remote work can help ensure compliance while taking advantage of Moldova’s favorable framework for foreign-earned income.

Living in Moldova with the Digital Nomad Visa

Living in Moldova as a digital nomad offers a unique opportunity to experience Eastern European culture while maintaining your remote career. The country is known for its affordable cost of living, making it possible to enjoy modern amenities, cafes, coworking spaces, and local cuisine without breaking the bank. Cities like Chișinău provide reliable internet, a growing expat community, and easy access to cultural attractions, while smaller towns and countryside regions offer a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle. Moldova’s strategic location also allows for easy travel to neighboring countries in Europe, making it ideal for nomads who want a base in the region while exploring nearby destinations.

Beyond practical considerations, Moldova offers a welcoming and safe environment for international visitors. Residents appreciate the friendly, community-oriented culture, and digital nomads can quickly integrate by participating in local events, coworking hubs, and online networking groups. With a one- or two-year stay under the Digital Nomad Visa, you have enough time to truly immerse yourself in the local lifestyle, discover hidden gems, and balance productive remote work with exploration and personal growth.

Best Cities to Live in Moldova

Chișinău

Chișinău, the capital of Moldova, is the country’s main hub for digital nomads. It combines modern infrastructure with a rich cultural scene, offering coworking spaces, cafés, and reliable high-speed internet. The city is home to museums, parks, and a vibrant nightlife, making it ideal for nomads who want a balance of work and leisure. With a relatively low cost of living compared to Western Europe, Chișinău allows remote workers to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while staying connected professionally.

Cahul

Cahul is a smaller city in southern Moldova, known for its calm atmosphere and affordability. It’s perfect for digital nomads seeking a quieter, slower-paced environment. The city features scenic parks, thermal spas, and local markets that give a true taste of Moldovan culture. While internet infrastructure is slightly less extensive than in the capital, many cafés and coworking spaces provide adequate connectivity for remote work, making Cahul an attractive alternative for those prioritizing lifestyle over city hustle.

Orhei

Orhei is a historic city located northeast of Chișinău, offering a mix of cultural heritage and natural beauty. Known for the Orheiul Vechi archaeological complex and picturesque countryside, it’s ideal for nomads who enjoy exploring historic sites and nature in their free time. The city has growing options for remote work, including shared workspaces and cafes with Wi-Fi, and provides a more immersive experience of Moldovan traditions and rural life while remaining within easy reach of the capital.

Cost of Living

The official currency of Moldova is the Moldovan leu (MDL). As of September 8, 2025, the exchange rate is approximately 1 USD = 16.60 MDL.

The average net monthly salary in Moldova is around 11,305 MDL, which equates to approximately $602 USD.

Here’s a rundown of what you should expect to pay in different cities:

Chișinău

Rent (1 bedroom in city center) - $400–$500 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) - $600–$800 per month
Basic Utilities - $60–$80 per month
Wi-Fi - $15–$20 per month
Public Transport - $0.30–$0.50 one-way
Groceries (2 people) - $200–$250 per month

Cahul

Rent (1 bedroom in city center) - $300–$400 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) - $450–$600 per month
Basic Utilities - $50–$70 per month
Wi-Fi - $10–$15 per month
Public Transport - $0.25–$0.40 one-way
Groceries (2 people) - $150–$200 per month

Orhei

Rent (1 bedroom in city center) - $250–$350 per month
Rent (3 bedrooms outside city center) - $400–$550 per month
Basic Utilities - $50–$70 per month
Wi-Fi - $10–$15 per month
Public Transport - $0.20–$0.30 one-way
Groceries (2 people) - $150–$200 per month

FAQs

Who is eligible for the Moldova Digital Nomad Visa?

The visa is designed for remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs who earn income from foreign sources. Applicants must demonstrate a stable monthly income, typically between $1,500 and $2,000, and cannot work for Moldovan-based companies.

How long can I stay in Moldova with the Digital Nomad Visa?

The initial visa allows a one-year stay, which can be renewed for a second year. In some cases, digital nomads who complete local registration may extend their stay up to five years under Moldova’s residence rules.

What documents do I need to apply?

Applicants must provide a valid passport, completed application form, passport photos, proof of accommodation, proof of foreign income, health insurance, and a clean criminal record certificate. Some documents may require certified translations into Romanian.

Can I work for a Moldovan company while on this visa?

No. The Moldova Digital Nomad Visa strictly allows remote work for foreign clients or employers. Working locally for Moldovan companies or generating income within the country is not permitted.

What are the costs associated with the visa?

The visa application fee is around €80–€100, and the residence permit issuance costs approximately €50–€80. Additional expenses may include translations, health insurance, and document certification. Total costs typically range from €200 to €350, excluding personal relocation and living expenses.

Can I get help applying for the Moldova digital nomad visa?

If you need help applying for a visa, you can talk to Citizen Remote. Get specific advice from one of our experts, or outsource the entire application to our team.

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