Visa & Arrival

If you are a citizen of the European Union, EFTA, CIS, Turkey, or several other partner countries, you may enter Moldova visa-free for short stays (up to 90 days in any 180-day period). However, if you plan to study for a full academic programme, you will still need to obtain a long-stay student visa (Type D/BS) and a residence permit after arrival.

Citizens from countries not covered by a visa-free regime must apply for a visa before entering Moldova, regardless of study duration.

1. Receive your official acceptance letter
   After being accepted by a Moldovan university, you’ll receive an invitation letter issued by the university and endorsed by the Ministry of Education and Research. This letter is required for the visa application.

2. Prepare your visa application documents
   Typical documents include:

• • Valid passport (with at least 6 months before expiry)
  • Official acceptance/invitation letter
  • Proof of tuition payment (or scholarship)
  • Proof of accommodation in Moldova
  • Medical insurance valid in Moldova
  • Bank statement or financial support document
  • Completed visa application form
  • Recent passport-sized photos

1. Apply at a Moldovan embassy or consulate
   Submit your application to the nearest Moldovan diplomatic mission. In some countries, online pre-application may be possible. The processing time is usually 2–4 weeks, so apply early.

2. Receive visa and travel to Moldova
   Once approved, you’ll receive a D/BS visa, which allows you to enter Moldova and register at your university.

All international students staying for more than 90 days must apply for a temporary residence permit within 30 days of arrival. Your university’s international office will help you with this process.

You’ll need to submit:

• Passport and visa
• Medical certificate
• University enrolment confirmation
• Proof of accommodation
• Health insurance
• Application fee payment

The permit is usually issued for one academic year and renewable annually.

☑ Notify your university about your arrival date
☑ Book airport pickup (if offered) or plan your own transport from Chișinău International Airport
☑ Bring hard copies of all submitted documents
☑ Keep small local currency (MDL) or a card for taxis, SIM cards, or snacks
☑ Download useful apps like Tranzy (for public transport)

• Chișinău International Airport (KIV) serves flights from major cities in Europe, Turkey, and the Middle East.
• Taxis and ride-hailing apps (YandexGo, iTaxi) are widely available at the airport.
• If arriving by land (bus/train), make sure your visa documents are printed and easily accessible for border checks.

Contact your university’s International Office for assistance with visa procedures, airport pickup, accommodation support, or residence permit paperwork.