Publication date: 28.07.2025
Moldovan Citizenship by Descent: Who is Eligible and What Documents are Required?
Obtaining Moldovan citizenship by descent is not just a bureaucratic process — it is a meaningful restoration of identity and a strategic investment in your future. For thousands of individuals around the world, particularly in Ukraine, Romania, Russia, Belarus, Israel, and other post-Soviet countries, the right to Moldovan citizenship is granted through ancestral ties. If your parents, grandparents, or even great-grandparents were born in the territory of present-day Moldova or the historical region of Bessarabia before 1940, you may be eligible to reclaim citizenship under Moldova's simplified descent procedure.
Moldova’s legislation allows individuals with documented family lineage to apply for citizenship without the need to live in the country, pass a language test, or give up their current citizenship. This makes it one of the most accessible second passport programs in Europe. Moldova also officially recognizes dual and even multiple citizenships, which means that acquiring Moldovan nationality will not jeopardize your existing status.
In this detailed guide, the legal team at Legal Marketplace "Consultant" walks you through everything you need to know about obtaining Moldovan citizenship by descent. You’ll learn about eligibility requirements, necessary documents, official timelines, typical errors that delay approval, and tips to streamline your application. We’ll also explore the legal framework that makes this possible, and explain how we help clients from over 30 countries acquire Moldovan passports quickly, legally, and with full confidence.
Whether you are just starting your journey or already have documents in hand, we invite you to explore this guide and discover how your heritage can connect you to a brighter future in Europe.
Who is eligible for Moldovan citizenship by descent?
- Children whose one or both parents are Moldovan citizens.
- Persons who have direct descent from Moldovan citizens up to the second generation (children, grandchildren).
- Those born in the territory of Bessarabia or Moldova before 1940.
The advantage of this procedure is that it does not require long-term residence and allows for remote document submission.
Advantages of Citizenship by Descent
- Fast processing — the review period may be shorter than for naturalization.
- Visa-free access to the EU — a Moldovan passport opens the door to the Schengen Area.
- Dual citizenship — there is no need to renounce your current citizenship.
- Simplified document package — no mandatory residence or employment in Moldova required.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Check Eligibility
- Find out if you have relatives born in the territory of Moldova or Bessarabia.
2. Prepare Supporting Documents
- Birth certificates of relatives.
- Archive certificates from Moldova.
- Passports or documents confirming the connection.
3. Collect the Main Application Package
- Applicant’s passport and copies.
- Birth certificate.
- Police clearance certificate.
- Photographs.
- Completed application form.
4. Submit the Application
- Through a Moldovan consulate or in person in Chișinău.
5. Pay the Fee
- Cost ranges from €150 to €200 depending on urgency.
6. Wait for Decision and Take the Oath
- Taking the oath is the final step before obtaining the passport.
Potential Challenges
- Loss of archival data — requires official archive requests.
- Errors in application forms — a common reason for rejection.
- Insufficient evidence of family ties — legal assistance may be required.
Why Consult Legal Experts?
“Legal Marketplace Consultant” can assist you in:
- Finding archival documents and recovering lost records.
- Preparing an error-free application.
- Reducing processing time.
- Appealing rejections if necessary.
Предмет со значком
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for Moldovan citizenship by descent?
Individuals whose parents, grandparents, or other direct ancestors were born in Moldova or Bessarabia before 1940.
Is travel to Moldova required to submit documents?
No, documents can be submitted via a Moldovan consulate or through a power of attorney to a lawyer.
How long does the citizenship process take?
On average — between 4 to 8 months, depending on document completeness and administrative workload.
Is a language or history exam required?
No, when applying by descent, no exam is necessary.
What documents are needed to prove family ties?
Birth certificates of relatives, archive references, church records, Soviet-era documents showing birth in Moldova or Bessarabia.
What if I don’t have the original documents of my relatives?
You can request an archival search through Moldovan state archives or with legal help. Certified copies or duplicates may be acceptable.
Will Ukrainian citizenship be preserved after receiving Moldovan?
Yes, Moldova allows dual citizenship. Ukraine does not formally recognize it but typically does not penalize dual citizens.
Can children obtain citizenship?
Yes, minors can obtain citizenship alongside their parents or separately if the family link is confirmed.
Can I get a Moldovan passport if I have a criminal record?
If the record is expunged or pertains to minor offenses, it may not be an obstacle. Final decision rests with the immigration authority.
Is apostille required on documents?
Yes, most foreign-issued documents require apostille and official translation.
Can I qualify if my relatives were from Transnistria?
Yes, if documents prove that at the time of birth the territory belonged to Moldova or Bessarabia.
Do I need to prove financial means?
No, financial proof or housing in Moldova is not required for citizenship by descent.
What are the main reasons for rejection?
Missing supporting documents, errors in the application, forged certificates, improper translations, or criminal record.
Moldovan citizenship by descent is not only a legal right for many Ukrainians, Belarusians, and Moldovans abroad or descendants of Bessarabians, but also an effective way to obtain a European passport. Unlike other procedures, descent requires minimal formalities, no residency, and guarantees full EU benefits: visa-free travel, access to healthcare, education, and business.
A well-prepared document package, timely application, and legal guidance are the keys to smooth and swift citizenship approval. Common issues arise with archives, translations, notarizations, and forms — it’s best to trust professionals. Legal support helps avoid rejections, speeds up timelines, and eases administrative burden.
If your family has Moldovan roots or relatives born in Moldova before 1940, don’t delay. These connections can get you a European passport in as little as 4–8 months.
In times of legal changes and geopolitical instability, a second passport is more than a convenience — it’s a strategic investment in your family’s future. It ensures access to security, a stable economy, and global mobility.
Legal Marketplace "Consultant" is a team of experts with years of experience in international law, citizenship, and immigration. We offer more than advice — we provide full support from ancestry verification to passport delivery. You'll always know your case status, required documents, and estimated timelines.
Contact us now — and we’ll create a personalized action plan, assess your chances, and begin your process swiftly. Secure your Moldovan passport legally, confidently, and risk-free.
