Moldova permanent residence

The GIM publishes two lists: one for foreigners married to Moldovan citizens and one for other categories. Both require an existing residence permit, the passport, a certificate attesting knowledge of the state language issued by the Ministry of Education or a diploma from a Romanian-language institution, except for old-age pensioners, the criminal record certificate, proof of housing, health insurance bought from the National Health Insurance Company and a photo.

Foreign spouses add the marriage certificate, the Moldovan spouse's valid ID card and, where relevant, children's birth certificates. They do not have to show the contribution history required from other categories.

Other applicants add the incorporation documents of their enterprise, such as a recent register extract and activity licence, proof of means of subsistence in the amount required for the category, and confirmation of social, salary and tax contributions for the last five years of activity in Moldova.

The state fee is MDL 1,000. The GIM fee depends on the speed: MDL 100 for a decision within three months, MDL 200 within two months and MDL 400 within one month. The permanent residence permit card is issued for the validity of the national ID card and renewed successively; renewal must be requested at least 30 days before expiry.

Applications are filed in person with originals and copies at the GIM one-stop shop where you live. The officer checks completeness and can return an incomplete file with reasons. Refusals are communicated by letter within three working days of approval.