Your Complete Guide to the Moldova Work Visa: Requirements, Process, and Job Opportunities

Moldova is steadily opening its labour market to foreign workers as local workforce shortages increase across agriculture, manufacturing, construction, logistics, hospitality, and healthcare. With a low cost of living, growing export-oriented industries, and simplified hiring procedures, Moldova offers realistic employment opportunities for non-EU nationals seeking legal work experience in Europe.

For individuals seeking stable employment, legal residency, and a gateway to Eastern European job markets, a Moldovan work visa offers a clear, lawful pathway.

This guide explains everything you need to know in a simple, practical, and human tone—based on official Moldovan immigration procedures and real employment practices.

Why Apply for a Moldova Work Visa?

Moldova allows foreign nationals to work legally through employer-sponsored work permits. The country offers straightforward procedures, lower competition compared to Western Europe, and increasing demand for both skilled and semi-skilled workers.

Step-by-Step Moldova Work Visa Process

Step 1: Secure a job offer from a registered Moldovan employer

Only legally registered employers in Moldova are authorised to hire foreign nationals. A formal job offer or employment contract is mandatory.

Step 2: Employer applies for your work permit

The employer submits the work permit application to the General Inspectorate for Migration (GIM), which is part of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Step 3: Receive work permit approval

Once approved, the employer sends you the official work permit or approval letter.

Step 4: Book an appointment at the Moldovan Embassy or Consulate

You must schedule a visa appointment in your home country or country of legal residence.

Step 5: Submit documents and biometrics

Please make sure to submit all required documents accurately and attend the biometrics collection if you need them.

Step 6: Attend the visa interview

The consular officer may ask questions about your employer, job role, accommodation, and purpose of employment in Moldova.

Step 7: Receive visa approval and travel to Moldova

After approval, the long-stay work visa is stamped in your passport, allowing legal entry and employment.

Moldova Work Visa From Abroad

A Moldovan work visa allows non-EU nationals to enter and work legally for an approved employer.

Most applicants apply from abroad through Moldovan embassies or consulates.

The process always starts with the employer, who must obtain the work permit before the visa application can be submitted.

Types of Work Permits in Moldova

Moldova issues different work authorisations depending on employment type:

1. Standard Employment Work Permit

Issued for foreign nationals employed under a local labour contract.

This is the most common permit type.

2. Seasonal Work Permit

For short-term work in agriculture, food processing, and hospitality.

3. Highly Qualified Specialist Permit

For professionals with advanced qualifications and higher salary levels.

4. Intra-Company Transfer Permit

For employees transferred from a foreign company to a Moldovan branch.

5. Long-Stay D Visa (Employment Purpose)

This is the visa stamped in your passport after work permit approval.

Benefits of a Moldova Work Permit

• Legal right to live and work in Moldova
• Eligibility to apply for temporary residence
• Low cost of living compared to many European countries
• Stable employment under local labour law
• Renewable work permits
• Possibility of family reunification
• European work experience for future opportunities

Eligibility for a Moldova Work Visa

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Valid job offer from a registered Moldovan employer
• Approved work permit
• Relevant skills or work experience
• Clean criminal record
• Proof of accommodation
• Valid passport
• Medical fitness certificate

Moldova Work Visa Requirements

Most applicants are required to submit:

• Valid passport (minimum 12 months validity)
• Completed long-stay visa application form
• Passport-size photographs
• Approved work permit
• Signed employment contract
• Proof of accommodation
• Medical insurance
• Police clearance certificate
• Visa fee payment receipt
• Cover letter explaining the purpose of the work

The embassy may request additional documents.

How to Apply for a Moldova Work Visa (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Find a genuine Moldovan employer

Please make sure the employer is registered and authorised to hire foreign workers.

Step 2: Employer applies for a work permit

The application is submitted to the General Inspectorate for Migration.

Step 3: Receive approved work permit

The employer sends you the official approval.

Step 4: Book an embassy or consulate appointment

You can apply in your home country or in the country of your residence.

Step 5: Submit documents and biometrics

Please make sure all documents are accurate and complete.

Step 6: Attend a visa interview

Could you explain your job role, employer details, and work plans?

Step 7: Visa approval and travel

Once approved, you may travel to Moldova and begin employment.

Tips to Avoid Moldova Work Visa Rejection

• Avoid fake job offers or unauthorised agents
• Verify employer registration
• Submit genuine documents only
• Match job role with your experience
• Avoid inconsistent or false information
• Prepare for interview questions
• Maintain valid passport status

Top In-Demand Jobs in Moldova

Occupation	Monthly Salary (EUR)	Requirements	Suitable For
Factory Worker	€500 – €900	No experience required	Entry-level
Agricultural Worker	€450 – €800	Physical fitness	Seasonal workers
Construction Worker	€600 – €1,100	Physical ability	Labour workers
Welder	€900 – €1,500	Certification	Skilled workers
Electrician	€900 – €1,600	Technical qualification	Professionals
Plumber	€850 – €1,400	Trade experience	Skilled trades
Machine Operator	€800 – €1,300	Technical skills	Semi-skilled
Truck Driver	€1,000 – €1,800	Valid licence	Drivers
Warehouse Worker	€550 – €1,000	Physical ability	Logistics
Hotel Staff	€500 – €900	Basic English	Hospitality
Cook / Chef	€800 – €1,400	Kitchen experience	Culinary staff
Cleaner	€450 – €800	No experience	Entry-level
Caregiver	€600 – €1,100	Basic training	Support workers
Nurse	€1,000 – €1,700	Nursing qualification	Healthcare
IT Support	€1,200 – €2,200	IT background	IT workers

Moldova’s Most In-Demand Job Sectors

1. Agriculture & Food Processing

Seasonal and permanent workers are required for farming and export-based food industries.

2. Manufacturing & Production

Textiles, electronics, and light manufacturing drive hiring demand.

3. Construction & Infrastructure

Urban development projects require skilled and unskilled labour.

4. Logistics & Transport

Truck drivers and warehouse workers remain in steady demand.

5. Hospitality & Services

Hotels, restaurants, and service businesses recruit foreign staff.

6. Healthcare

Nurses and caregivers are needed due to workforce shortages.

Moldova Work Visa Processing Time

• Work Permit Processing: 30–60 days
• Visa Processing (Embassy): 10–30 days
• Total Estimated Timeline: 1.5–3 months

Processing times depend on document accuracy and the authority's workload.

Moldova Work Visa Cost

Typical expenses include:

• Visa Fee: €80 – €120
• Medical Insurance: €20 – €40
• Document Translation & Legalisation: €30 – €70
• Embassy or service charges: Varies
• The employer usually pays work permit fees.

How to Find Jobs Through Official Government Portals in Moldova

Using official government platforms ensures legal, verified employment and protects applicants from fraud.

National Employment Agency of Moldova

Website: https://www.anofm.md

Provides:

• Verified job listings
• Labour market information
• Employer registration details

General Inspectorate for Migration

Website: https://igm.gov.md

Provides:

• Work permit regulations
• Foreign employment procedures
• Residence permit information

Official Visa Information

Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Integration of Moldova

Website: https://www.mfa.gov.md

Provides:

• Visa categories
• Embassy and consulate contacts
• Application procedures

How Can M2S Group Sp. z o.o. Help You?

M2S Group Sp. z o.o. Provides ethical, transparent, and professional immigration guidance across Europe and Eastern Europe.

Our services include:

• Free eligibility assessment
• Career consultation
• Moldova work visa guidance
• Document preparation support
• European job search assistance
• End-to-end application support

Whether you plan to work in Moldova or explore long-term European opportunities, our team provides accurate, reliable guidance at every stage.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Moldova Work Visa

1. What is a Moldovan work visa?

A Moldova work visa is a long-stay national visa (Type D) that allows foreign nationals to enter Moldova for employment after obtaining a valid work permit and employer sponsorship.

2. Who needs a Moldovan work visa to work legally?

All foreign nationals from non-visa-exempt countries must obtain a Moldovan work visa and residence permit before starting employment.

3. Is Moldova part of the European Union or Schengen Area?

No. Moldova is not a member of the EU or the Schengen Area, but it is an EU candidate country and aligns many of its policies with EU standards.

4. What is the central work permit system in Moldova?

Moldova operates an employer-sponsored work permit system, followed by a Temporary Residence Permit for Employment.

5. Is a job offer mandatory for a Moldovan work visa?

Yes. A confirmed job offer or signed employment contract from a registered Moldovan employer is mandatory.

6. Who applies for the work permit in Moldova—the employer or the employee?

The employer applies for the work permit, while the employee applies for the visa and residence permit.

7. Which authority issues work permits in Moldova?

Work permits are issued by the National Agency for Employment, while residence permits are issued by the General Inspectorate for Migration.

8. What types of work permits are available in Moldova?

Main categories include:

• Standard Employment Work Permit
• Highly Qualified Specialist Permit
• Seasonal Work Permit
• Intra-Company Transfer Permit
• Short-Term Assignment Permit

9. What documents are required for a Moldovan work visa?

Applicants generally need:

• Valid passport
• Type D visa application form
• Approved work permit
• Employment contract
• Proof of accommodation
• Police clearance certificate
• Medical fitness certificate
• Health insurance
• Passport-size photographs
• Visa fee payment receipt

10. How long does Moldova's work permit processing take?

Work permit processing usually takes 15–30 days, depending on case complexity.

11. How long does visa processing take at the Moldovan embassy?

Visa processing typically takes 10–30 days after work permit approval.

12. How long is a Moldovan work visa valid?

The initial work visa is usually issued for up to 90 days, allowing entry to apply for residence.

13. Can I extend my stay in Moldova?

Yes. Upon arrival, you must apply for a Temporary Residence Permit, which is usually valid for 1 year and is renewable.

14. Can I change employers in Moldova?

Yes, but a new work permit must be approved before changing employers.

15. What is the temporary residence permit for employment?

It is a biometric residence card confirming legal residence and employment rights in Moldova.

16. Is biometric registration required?

Yes. Biometrics are collected at the time of residence permit issuance.

17. Is a criminal background certificate required?

Yes. A clean police clearance certificate from the applicant’s home country is mandatory.

18. Is health insurance mandatory for Moldova work visa holders?

Yes. Health insurance is mandatory throughout the stay in Moldova.

19. Are medical tests required for a Moldovan work visa?

Yes. A medical fitness certificate is generally required.

20. Do I need to speak Romanian or Russian to work in Moldova?

Language skills are helpful but not mandatory for many roles, especially in agriculture, construction, manufacturing, and IT.

21. Which industries hire the most foreign workers in Moldova?

High-demand sectors include:

• Agriculture & seasonal work
• Construction & infrastructure
• Manufacturing & food processing
• Information technology
• Logistics & transport
• Textile & garment production

22. Is Moldova a good destination for foreign workers?

Yes. Moldova offers low living costs, increasing labour demand, and growing foreign investment.

23. Can I bring my family to Moldova?

Yes. Family reunification is allowed after the worker obtains a valid residence permit.

24. Can my spouse work in Moldova?

Spouses may work after obtaining a separate work permit.

25. Can I work in other European countries with a Moldovan work visa?

No. Employment rights are limited to Moldova only.

26. Can I travel within Schengen with a Moldovan work visa?

No. Moldova is not part of the Schengen Area.

27. What is the minimum wage in Moldova?

Moldova’s minimum wage is approximately €200–€250 per month, depending on sector and updates.

28. Does Moldova pay overtime?

Yes. Overtime and night work are compensated under Moldovan labour law.

29. Do employers provide accommodation?

Some employers, especially in agriculture and construction, provide free or subsidised accommodation.

30. Are meals or food allowances provided?

This depends on the employer; some provide meals or allowances.

31. What happens if my employer cancels the job offer?

Your residence permit may be cancelled unless a new employer secures approval.

32. Do Moldovan authorities verify job offers?

Yes. Employment contracts and employer legitimacy are strictly verified.

33. Are bank statements required for a Moldovan work visa?

Some embassies may request proof of financial means.

34. Can I apply for a Moldova work visa without an agent?

Yes. Applications can be submitted directly through official procedures.

35. What are standard working hours in Moldova?

The standard workweek is 40 hours, with regulated overtime.

36. Are fixed-term contracts allowed in Moldova?

Yes. Fixed-term contracts are standard and legally recognised.

37. Can I apply for permanent residence in Moldova?

Yes. After 5 years of continuous legal residence, permanent residence may be granted.

38. Can international students in Moldova switch to work permits?

Yes, provided they secure employment and meet permit requirements.

39. Is there an age limit for a Moldovan work visa?

There is no official age limit; employment suitability is the key factor.

40. Which authority issues residence permits in Moldova?

Residence permits are issued by the General Inspectorate for Migration.

41. Can I start working immediately after arrival in Moldova?

Yes, once your residence permit application is submitted and registered.

42. Do I need to register my address in Moldova?

Yes. Address registration is mandatory shortly after arrival.

43. Are seasonal work permits available in Moldova?

Yes. Seasonal permits are standard in agriculture and food processing.

44. Can I start a business on a Moldovan work visa?

No. Business activities require a separate self-employment or investor permit.

45. Who pays the Moldova work permit fees?

Employers usually pay work permit fees; applicants pay visa fees.

46. How long does the complete Moldova work visa process take?

The complete process usually takes 1.5–3 months, depending on documentation and approvals.

47. Do documents need to be translated for Moldova?

Yes. Documents must be translated into Romanian by certified translators.

48. Can I convert my work visa into permanent residence?

Yes, after meeting the residence duration and legal requirements.

49. Is Moldova suitable for long-term settlement?

Moldova can be suitable for long-term residence for workers seeking affordable living and stable employment, depending on career goals.

50. What are the most common reasons for Moldova work visa rejection?

Common reasons include incomplete documentation, unregistered employers, insufficient proof of accommodation, and inconsistencies in employment details.