Moldovan Citizenship by Naturalization: Complete Guide for 2025

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Hubanova Oleksandra Dimitriivna

Lawyer

Ukraine / Kyiv

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Publication date: 06.08.2025

Moldovan Citizenship by Naturalization: Complete Guide for 2025

           In 2025, naturalization remains one of the most popular ways for foreigners who have been living in Moldova for a long time to obtain Moldovan citizenship and become its full-fledged citizens. This process involves fulfilling a set of requirements, gathering official documents, undergoing verification by state authorities, and taking the citizen’s oath.

Moldova attracts applicants with its stable legal system, convenient location in Europe, as well as visa-free access to EU countries and over 120 countries worldwide. Obtaining citizenship through naturalization allows you not only to live and work in Moldova without restrictions, but also to enjoy all the benefits of its international agreements — economic cooperation, participation in European programs, opportunities for business, banking services, and social protection.

          In this article, “Legal Marketplace Consultant” will explain in detail who can apply for citizenship through naturalization, what steps are required, how long the process takes, what mistakes to avoid, and how to do everything right the first time. You’ll also find practical tips for effective preparation and answers to the most common questions.

What is Naturalization and Who Can Apply?

Naturalization is the official process of granting Moldovan citizenship to a foreigner who has legally resided in the country for a certain period and meets all legal requirements. This is the classic way for those who have integrated into Moldovan society, do business, work, or raise a family in the country.

• Foreigners who have lived in Moldova for at least 8 years on legal grounds (with temporary or permanent residence permits).
• Spouses of Moldovan citizens — after 3 years of marriage (or 1.5 years if the couple permanently resides in Moldova).
• Investors, entrepreneurs, scientists, or athletes who have made a significant contribution to the development of the country.
• Children of foreigners who grew up in Moldova and have permanent residence here.

Main Requirements for Obtaining Citizenship by Naturalization

1. Legal and continuous residence in Moldova for at least 8 years (exceptions: marriage or special merits).
2. Basic proficiency in the Romanian language (spoken and written — required for the interview).
3. No criminal record or ongoing criminal cases, including in the country of origin.
4. Stable and legal source of income, confirmed by official documents (job, business, investments, etc.).
5. Willingness to take the official oath of Moldovan citizenship.

In 2025, additional options are also available for specialists in shortage professions and talented youth, who are eligible for expedited consideration.

Benefits of Citizenship by Naturalization

• The right to permanently reside in Moldova without restrictions or risk of losing status.
• Access to free and preferential education for citizens (including state universities).
• Visa-free travel to more than 120 countries, including the EU, the UK, Turkey, and Balkan countries.
• Opportunity for official employment, starting a business, and investing in any country of the European association.
• Full social package: health insurance, pension benefits, child support, etc.
• Access to loans, mortgages, banking and financial services in Moldova and the EU.
• Stable legal status and protection of interests at both national and international levels.

Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining Moldovan Citizenship by Naturalization

1. Check Your Residency Period

• Calculate how many years you have legally resided in Moldova with a residence permit or permanent residency. Be sure to count all trips abroad — long absences may not count towards your total.

2. Prepare Your Documents

• Internal and international passport.
• Moldovan residence permit (temporary or permanent).
• Birth certificate and marriage certificate (if applicable).
• Police clearance certificate from Moldova and from your country of previous citizenship.
• Documents confirming your sources of income (job certificate, bank statement, tax declaration).
• Color photographs, application forms, and receipt for state fee payment.

3. Submit Your Application

• You can submit your documents to the migration authorities in Moldova or via the Moldovan consulate if you are abroad.

4. Pay the State Fees

• The cost depends on urgency — from €150 to €250. An additional fee applies for priority processing.

5. Pass the Verification and Interview

• All documents, sources of income, and criminal background are checked. An interview will be conducted to verify your knowledge of Romanian language and understanding of basic Moldovan laws.
• It is recommended to prepare for the interview in advance: study typical questions about Moldovan history, traditions, and citizens’ rights.

6. Take the Oath

• This is the final step — an official ceremony after which you officially become a Moldovan citizen.

7. Receive Your Passport and ID Card

• After the oath, you will be issued an internal passport and Moldovan citizen ID card. You gain all the rights of a citizen, including voting.

Changes in Moldovan Legislation in 2025

1. Introduction of electronic document management and online registration for interviews to speed up the process.
2. Added the option to upload part of the documents online via the government portal.
3. Shorter processing times for investors, highly qualified professionals, and graduates of top universities.
4. These changes make the naturalization process more transparent and accessible, while also attracting investments and young talent to Moldova.

Comparison of Naturalization With Other Ways of Obtaining Citizenship

• Naturalization — the longest route (8 years of residence), but the most reliable for those integrated into Moldovan life.
• Citizenship by descent — the fastest way (3–6 months), but you need official proof of ancestry.
• Citizenship through marriage — an average timeframe (1.5–3 years), ideal for those building a family with a Moldovan citizen.
• Investment citizenship — individual approach and extra expenses, but accelerated procedures are possible.

Typical Mistakes That Lead to Citizenship Refusal

• Submitting an incomplete document package or lack of notarized translations.
• Inaccuracies in documents, wrong dates or personal data.
• Insufficient knowledge of Romanian language for the interview.
• Outstanding criminal records, debts, or administrative restrictions.
• Lack of confirmed income or official employment.

Even one of these mistakes can lead to refusal, so working with a lawyer significantly increases your chances of success.

Tips for Successful Naturalization

1. Start preparing your documents in advance — at least 6 months, especially if you need certificates from other countries.
2. Learn Romanian with native speakers or take courses for foreigners.
3. Take a trial interview with a lawyer or migration specialist.
4. Double-check all translations for compliance with consular requirements.
5. Regularly monitor legal updates — new options may open additional opportunities for you.

Life in Moldova After Obtaining Citizenship

• You receive the full set of rights — from voting to acquiring property and opening companies.
• Freedom to travel throughout Europe and the world without limitations or complex visa procedures.
• Access to youth, entrepreneur, and investor support programs in Moldova.
• Protection of your interests at the international level, including diplomatic assistance.

Your new status opens doors to European opportunities, stability, and growth for you and your family.

FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions