Visa-Free Countries for Moldova: A Comprehensive Guide

Moldova, a small Eastern European country, has been making strides in improving its international relations and visa policies. As of 2024, Moldovan citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 122 countries and territories, making their passport the 44th most powerful globally according to the Henley Passport Index. This article provides a detailed overview of visa-free travel opportunities for Moldovan citizens, including key regions, entry requirements, and important considerations.

Schengen Area and European Union

Visa-Free Access to Schengen Countries

Since April 28, 2014, Moldovan citizens with biometric passports have been granted visa-free entry to the Schengen Area. This includes 26 European countries that have officially abolished passport and border control at their mutual borders. Moldovan travelers can stay in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

European Union Countries

Moldovan citizens can travel visa-free to all European Union (EU) countries, including non-Schengen members such as Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, and Romania. The 90-day rule applies to the entire EU, not just the Schengen Area.

Other European Countries

Several non-EU European countries also offer visa-free access to Moldovan citizens:

• Albania (90 days)
• Andorra
• Bosnia and Herzegovina (90 days)
• Georgia (365 days)
• Monaco
• Montenegro (90 days)
• North Macedonia (90 days)
• San Marino
• Serbia (90 days)
• Vatican City

Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS)

Moldova benefits from visa-free arrangements within the Commonwealth of Independent States. Moldovan citizens can travel without visas to:

• Armenia
• Azerbaijan (90 days)
• Belarus
• Kazakhstan (90 days)
• Kyrgyzstan
• Russia (90 days)
• Tajikistan (Unlimited)
• Uzbekistan (Unlimited)

Americas

South America

Several South American countries offer visa-free access to Moldovan passport holders:

• Brazil (90 days)
• Chile (90 days)
• Colombia (90 days)
• Ecuador (90 days)
• Peru (183 days)
• Suriname (90 days)

Caribbean

In the Caribbean region, Moldovan citizens can visit the following countries without a visa:

• Antigua and Barbuda (1 month)
• Bahamas (3 months)
• Barbados (28 days)
• Dominica (21 days)
• Haiti (3 months)
• Saint Kitts and Nevis (90 days)
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (3 months)

Asia and Middle East

Southeast Asia

Moldovan travelers can enjoy visa-free access to:

• Malaysia (30 days)
• Philippines (30 days with eVisa)

Middle East

Several Middle Eastern countries offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival access:

• Iran (30 days with eVisa)
• Israel (90 days)
• Jordan (eVisa or visa on arrival)
• Lebanon (1 month visa on arrival)
• Oman (14 days visa-free or 30 days with eVisa)
• Qatar (90 days)

Africa

While many African countries require visas for Moldovan citizens, some offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival options:

• Botswana (3 months with eVisa)
• Cape Verde (visa on arrival)
• Comoros (45 days visa on arrival)
• Mauritius (60 days visa on arrival)
• Namibia (3 months)
• Rwanda (30 days)
• Seychelles (3 months with Electronic Border System)
• Tunisia (3 months)

Oceania

In the Pacific region, Moldovan citizens can visit:

• Fiji (4 months)
• Micronesia (30 days)
• Palau (30 days visa on arrival)
• Samoa (90 days)

Important Considerations for Visa-Free Travel

Passport Validity

Most countries require that a traveler’s passport be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry. Some notable exceptions include:

• European Union countries (3 months beyond intended departure date)
• United Kingdom (valid for the entire duration of stay)
• Japan (valid throughout the intended period of stay)

Always check the specific requirements for your destination before traveling.

Length of Stay

While many countries offer 90-day visa-free stays, the allowed duration can vary significantly. For example:

• Georgia allows Moldovan citizens to stay for up to 365 days
• Malaysia permits a 30-day stay
• Fiji offers a generous 4-month visa-free period

Be sure to adhere to the specified length of stay to avoid overstaying and potential legal issues.

Purpose of Travel

Visa-free access is typically granted for tourism, business meetings, or short-term visits. If you plan to work, study, or engage in other activities, you may need to apply for a specific visa despite having visa-free access for short stays.

Entry and Exit Requirements

Some countries may require:

• Proof of onward travel
• Evidence of sufficient funds for your stay
• Travel insurance
• Vaccination certificates (especially relevant in some African countries)

Electronic Travel Authorizations

Several countries that offer visa-free access still require travelers to obtain an electronic travel authorization before departure. These include:

• Australia (eVisitor)
• Canada (eTA)
• New Zealand (NZeTA)
• United States (ESTA)

Visa on Arrival and eVisa Options

For countries not offering visa-free access, Moldovan citizens can often take advantage of visa on arrival or eVisa systems. Some notable examples include:

• Bahrain (14 days eVisa or visa on arrival)
• Bangladesh (30 days visa on arrival)
• Cambodia (30 days eVisa or visa on arrival)
• Egypt (30 days eVisa)
• India (30 days eVisa)
• Indonesia (30 days visa on arrival)
• Sri Lanka (30 days eVisa or visa on arrival)
• Vietnam (eVisa)

Commonwealth of Independent States Mobility

As a member of the Commonwealth of Independent States, Moldova benefits from special mobility arrangements within the region. This allows for easier travel, work, and study opportunities in countries like Russia, Belarus, and Kazakhstan.

Biometric Passport Requirement

It’s crucial to note that visa-free access to many countries, especially in the Schengen Area, is only available to holders of biometric passports. Moldovan citizens with older, non-biometric passports may still need to apply for visas.

Future Prospects

Moldova continues to work on expanding its visa-free travel options. Ongoing negotiations and improving international relations may lead to additional countries offering visa-free access in the future.

Conclusion

Moldovan citizens enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to a diverse range of countries across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. This freedom of movement opens up numerous opportunities for tourism, business, and cultural exchange. However, it’s essential for travelers to stay informed about specific entry requirements, allowed lengths of stay, and any recent changes in visa policies. By understanding and adhering to these regulations, Moldovan passport holders can make the most of their international travel opportunities while ensuring smooth and hassle-free journeys.

Citations: [1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_requirements_for_Moldovan_citizens [2] https://www.guideconsultants.com/all-passports/moldova-passport-visa-free-countries-list/ [3] https://visaguide.world/visa-free-countries/moldovan-passport/ [4] https://www.passportindex.org/passport/moldova/ [5] https://getgoldenvisa.com/passport/moldova-republic-of [6] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_requirements_for_Moldovan_citizens