Moldovan Citizenship by Birth: Rights of Children and Parents

Moldovan citizenship by birth is an important right that allows a child to automatically become a citizen of the country if certain conditions are met. In 2025, interest in this process has increased, considering the country’s aspirations for European integration and the growing advantages of a Moldovan passport. This article explores the key aspects of obtaining citizenship by birth, the necessary documents, the rights of children and parents, and the benefits that Moldovan citizenship offers for a child's future.

Who Is Eligible for Moldovan Citizenship by Birth

According to the Citizenship Law of the Republic of Moldova, a child automatically acquires Moldovan citizenship in the following cases:

  1. At least one parent is a Moldovan citizen at the time of the child's birth.

    • The child’s place of birth does not matter—they may be born in Moldova or abroad.

  2. The child is born on the territory of the Republic of Moldova, and their parents are unknown or stateless.

    • In such cases, citizenship is granted to protect the child's interests.

  3. The child is adopted by Moldovan citizens.

    • Regardless of the country of birth, an adopted child obtains Moldovan citizenship from the moment the adoption court decision comes into effect.

What Documents Are Required for Citizenship by Birth

To register a child as a citizen of the Republic of Moldova, the following documents must be submitted:

1. Basic Documents:

  • Child’s birth certificate (if issued abroad, it must be translated into Romanian and notarized);

  • Parents’ passports;

  • Documents proving that at least one parent is a Moldovan citizen;

  • Birth certificate issued by the maternity hospital (if the child was born in Moldova).

2. Additional Documents Depending on the Circumstances:

  • Parents’ marriage or divorce certificate (if applicable);

  • Documents confirming adoption (if the child is adopted);

  • Consent of the second parent in case one parent is applying for citizenship alone and they are not married.

3. Documents for Children Born Abroad:

  • Parent’s Moldovan citizenship certificate;

  • Document proving residence abroad.

Important!

All foreign documents must be translated into Romanian and either apostilled or legalized at the Moldovan consulate.

Rights of Moldovan Citizens Who Obtain Citizenship by Birth

A child who acquires Moldovan citizenship by birth receives all the rights and obligations provided by the country's legislation, including:

  • The right to obtain a Moldovan passport and identity card;
  • Access to free education and healthcare;
  • The ability to reside and work in Moldova without additional permits;
  • Freedom of movement to countries that have visa-free agreements with Moldova.

Benefits of Moldovan Citizenship for Children

Obtaining citizenship of the Republic of Moldova provides children with broad future opportunities:

1. Visa-Free Travel to the EU

  • Access to the European area without the need for visas, facilitating travel, education, and employment.

2. Educational Opportunities

  • The ability to study at Moldovan educational institutions on a budgetary basis, as well as receive grants and scholarships in EU countries.

3. Healthcare and Social Protection

  • Moldovan citizen children have the right to free medical care and state social support.

4. Dual Citizenship

  • The Republic of Moldova allows dual citizenship, enabling a child to retain the citizenship of another country (if acquired through their parents).

5. Potential for EU Naturalization

  • If Moldova joins the European Union, Moldovan citizens may automatically receive additional privileges, including the right to live and work in EU member states.

Special Cases of Citizenship Acquisition

1. A Child Born into a Mixed Family

  • If one parent is a foreign citizen, an application must be submitted to determine the child’s citizenship.

2. A Child Born Abroad to a Moldovan Citizen

  • It is important to promptly register the child’s birth at the Moldovan consulate and apply for citizenship recognition.

3. A Child Left Without Parental Care

  • If a child is born in Moldova but lacks documentation, the state has the right to automatically grant citizenship as part of child protection measures.

Possible Challenges and Recommendations

Despite the simplified procedure, parents may face difficulties when applying for citizenship:

  • Document issues (discrepancies, lack of translation, or legalization);
  • Bureaucratic delays in processing the application;
  • Errors in application forms, which can lead to rejection.

Recommendations:

  • Prepare all required documents in advance;
  • Seek legal consultation for correct paperwork processing;
  • Monitor submission deadlines, especially for children born abroad.

Conclusion

Moldovan citizenship by birth is a fundamental right that provides a child with extensive opportunities for the future. Parents should carefully follow all procedures and submit the necessary documents on time to ensure full legal protection for their child.

If you have any questions or require assistance with citizenship applications, we recommend consulting legal professionals specializing in immigration law.

Don't delay citizenship registration—secure your child's future today!