Moldova remains an attractive destination for relocation — thanks to its favorable location, low cost of living, and flexible immigration programs. However, for foreigners, a key step is choosing between temporary residence (TR) and permanent residence (PR). These statuses offer different opportunities, have varying durations, and require distinct application procedures. In this article, we’ll explore their differences, the rights they grant, and the step-by-step process to obtain each one.

What is TR and PR in Moldova

Temporary Residence (TR)

TR is a permit that allows a foreigner to legally live and work in Moldova for a specific period (usually 1 year, but it can be extended up to 5 years depending on the basis).
Main characteristics:

  • Validity: limited, requires renewal.
  • Grounds: work, study, running a business, investments, family reunification, medical treatment.
  • Rights: right to reside, work, access to education and healthcare.
  • Restrictions: no political rights, must confirm purpose of stay at each renewal.

Permanent Residence (PR)

PR is a status that allows you to live in Moldova without time limits, while keeping the citizenship of your own country.
Main characteristics:

  • Validity: unlimited (only card renewal every 5–10 years).
  • Grounds: usually after 5 years of TR, but for certain categories (marriage to a Moldovan citizen, investments, refugees) the term is reduced.
  • Rights: almost all the rights of a citizen (except voting), access to social protection, healthcare, and education.
  • Restrictions: knowledge of the state language and proof of integration into society required.

Comparison table TR vs PR

Criteria TR PR
Validity 1–5 years, renewable Unlimited (card renewal only)
Rights Residence, work, education, healthcare Almost all citizen rights, except voting
Grounds Study, work, business, family, investment Long-term residence, marriage, investment, asylum
Restrictions Purpose confirmation at renewal Integration and language knowledge

Grounds for Obtaining TR and PR in Moldova

Grounds for TR

Temporary residence in Moldova can be obtained for several reasons, supported by documents:

  1. Employment — a contract with a Moldovan employer or opening a branch of a foreign company.
  2. Study — enrollment in an accredited educational institution in Moldova.
  3. Business — registering a company or as an individual entrepreneur, meeting investment requirements in the economy.
  4. Family reunification — marriage to a Moldovan citizen or a PR/TR holder residing in the country.
  5. Investment — investing in real estate, business, or state projects above the set threshold.
  6. Medical treatment — long-term therapy or rehabilitation in a Moldovan medical institution.

Grounds for PR

Permanent residence can be obtained if:

  1. Long-term residence — 5 years with TR (3 years for spouses of Moldovan citizens).
  2. Investment — substantial investments that can speed up the PR process.
  3. Asylum or humanitarian reasons — status granted faster if life is at risk in the country of origin.
  4. Outstanding merits — status granted for significant contributions to culture, science, or the economy (rare, but possible).

Tip: For both statuses, a clean record is crucial — no criminal convictions, fines, or violations of migration laws.

Step-by-Step Procedures for Obtaining TR and PR in Moldova

How to Obtain TR

  1. Determine the basis — work, study, business, family, etc.

  2. Prepare the documents:

    • passport;
    • completed application form;
    • proof of basis (contract, marriage certificate, university confirmation, etc.);
    • medical insurance;
    • criminal record certificate;
    • proof of residence address in Moldova;
    • receipt of state fee payment.
  3. Submit the application to the Bureau for Migration and Asylum (BMA).
  4. Wait for processing — usually up to 30–45 days.
  5. Receive the TR card — it confirms your status and validity period.
  6. Renewal — submit documents at least 30 days before expiration.

How to Obtain PR

  1. Meet the residency requirement with TR (usually 5 years).

  2. Gather the required documents:

    • passport;
    • application form;
    • TR card;
    • proof of income and housing;
    • criminal record certificate;
    • state language proficiency certificate (in some cases).
  3. Submit to BMA and pay the state fee.
  4. Attend an interview (if required).
  5. Receive the PR card — a permanent residence permit.

Fast-Track Procedures

  • For investors — with investments above the set threshold, status can be obtained in 90–120 days.
  • For spouses of Moldovan citizens — transition to PR after 3 years of living together.
  • For refugees — individual conditions depending on circumstances.

What to Expect After Obtaining Status and Adaptation Tips

Life with TR

  • Work and business: you can be legally employed or start your own business, but if you change your employer/field, you must notify the migration authorities.
  • Education and healthcare: access to public and private institutions on the same terms as citizens.
  • Renewal: submit documents in advance, otherwise you may lose your status.
  • Restrictions: leaving Moldova for a long period without a valid reason may affect your renewal.

Life with PR

  • Stability: you can live without the fear of annual renewal.
  • Rights: access to social protection, pension system, and free employment.
  • Restrictions: political activity is limited — no right to vote or be elected.
  • Absence: you may stay outside the country for up to 12 consecutive months, but longer absences can lead to loss of status.

Adaptation tips

  1. Learn the state language — it will make communication easier and speed up integration.
  2. Understand local rules and laws — especially in business and taxation.
  3. Build social connections — take part in local events and engage with residents.
  4. Make use of local advantages — affordable prices for food, housing, and services.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How much does it cost to obtain TR and PR in Moldova?

  • The cost depends on the basis and urgency of processing.
  • On average, the state fee for TR is €50–100, for PR is €100–150.
  • Additional expenses may include document translation, notarization, and medical insurance.

How long does the process take?

  • TR — 30 to 45 days.
  • PR — up to 90 days (fast-track programs — 2 to 4 months).

Can PR be obtained without TR?

  • Yes, in exceptional cases: marriage to a Moldovan citizen, significant investments, asylum, or special merits.

Is a language exam required?

  • For PR — in most cases, yes, especially if you are not married to a Moldovan citizen or don’t have special exemptions.
  • For TR — usually no, but knowing the language helps in daily life.

What happens if TR renewal is overdue?

  • Possible fine, refusal of renewal, and even deportation.
  • Always submit documents at least 30 days before the current term expires.

Can you apply for Moldovan citizenship with PR?

  • Yes, after 8 years of residence (or 5 years if married to a Moldovan citizen), you can apply for citizenship.