Moldovan Citizenship

Starting December 24, 2025, the new Moldovan Citizenship Law came into force, introducing updated rules and clearer pathways for those interested in becoming citizens of the Republic of Moldova.

How to Obtain Moldovan Citizenship. Citizenship can be acquired through:
- birth
- recognition
- adoption
- reacquisition
- naturalization
- in the interests of the Republic of Moldova

Citizenship by Recognition
Eligible applicants must be over 18, have knowledge of the Romanian language and the Constitution, and fall into one of the following categories:
- born on the territory of the Republic of Moldova;
- having parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents born in Moldova;
- descendants of persons born in Bessarabia, Northern Bukovina, Hertsa region, or the Moldavian ASSR before June 28, 1940;
- persons deported or refugees from Moldova after June 28, 1940, and their descendants.

Citizenship by Naturalization
Foreign nationals and stateless persons may apply if they:
- have legally resided in Moldova continuously (10, 8, or 5 years depending on the case);
- are married to a Moldovan citizen for at least 3 years;
- have lived with Moldovan parents or children for at least 3 years.

Exemptions
Knowledge of Romanian and the Constitution is not required for:
- persons with severe disabilities;
- applicants granted citizenship “in the interests of the Republic of Moldova”;
- children under 14 years old.

How Our Office Can Help
Our law office offers legal consultancy and assistance for acquiring Moldovan citizenship:
- eligibility assessment under the new law;
- guidance throughout the application process.

Applicable legislation

Moldovan Citizenship Law https://lawyer.md/wp-content/uploads/Moldovan-Citizenship-Law.pdf 

Government Decision No. 804 of 23.12.2025 approving the Regulation on the procedure for acquiring and losing citizenship of the Republic of Moldova