Government to Strengthen Its Supervision of Foreigners

On Wednesday, the government approved a draft law developed by the Ministry of Internal Affairs on the admission, stay, and supervision of foreigners in Moldova. The law includes new concepts adapted to the EU legal framework (such as entry, seasonal work permit, host organization/family, intern, intercorporate transfer (ICT), specialist, educational project, nanny, resident card, pseudo-legalization of foreigners, and fake marriage), according to infotag.md. The resident card will now be the only document confirming a foreigner’s identity and legal status. There are also mandatory requirements for having sufficient money to live on and a place of residence in the Republic of Moldova in order to obtain or renew the right to stay. “The criteria and level of livelihoods will be established by subsequent regulations, depending on the purpose of the stay,” the draft states. In order to strengthen the reception process and ensure effective management of migration flows, it is mandatory for foreigners to justify their purpose of stay in the Republic of Moldova by providing relevant documents (contracts, certificates, invitations, etc.). A flexible regime for short-term stays (up to 90 days) is being introduced, and the procedures for submitting applications, approving, notifying, and reporting are expected to be digitalized. The law aims to stimulate “competitive advantages for sectors of the economy with a shortage of labor”, and “support companies operating in sectors where the local workforce is insufficient by hiring third-country nationals for various purposes”. However, it also aims to reduce illegal employment. “This project will turn migration into a strategic opportunity for growth, providing a safe, predictable, and prosperous environment for every citizen,” said Interior Minister Daniella Misail-Nichitin. At the end of 2025, more than 21,500 foreigners and stateless persons from more than 130 countries were registered in the Republic of Moldova. Of these, over 5,600 had the right to permanent residence, and about 16,000 had the right to temporary stay.