According to data from the Economic Council under the Prime Minister of Moldova, Ukrainian refugees have also established more than 200 businesses in the country since 2022.
At the same time, the Council noted that, although Moldovan legislation grants refugees access to the labor market, their integration remains a challenging process.
“Language barriers, difficulties in having their qualifications recognized, and adapting to the requirements of the local labor market limit refugees’ ability to fully realize their professional potential,” the Economic Council’s statement reads.
The Council emphasized that addressing these challenges requires coordinated efforts by the government, the business community, and development partners through comprehensive policies in the areas of employment, vocational training, and social integration.
Business representatives also emphasized that Ukrainian refugees help offset labor shortages and contribute to the development of the local economy.
How can Ukrainian citizens be engaged in business in Moldova?
During a meeting of the National Council for Economic Empowerment and Gender Equality (CNAEEG), representatives of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) presented the latest data on the situation of Ukrainian refugees in Moldova and proposed public policy measures to facilitate their access to the labor market, taking into account both individual needs and the needs of Moldova’s economy.
As noted in the report, participants also discussed tools such as self-employment and business licenses, which could facilitate refugees’ access to employment and self-employment.
It is estimated that by 2027, approximately 2,080 refugees could opt for self-employed status. This would generate approximately 60 million Moldovan lei (more than $3.3 million) in annual tax revenue for Moldova’s budget, as well as provide additional social and economic benefits with minimal administrative costs.
The meeting also addressed legal regulations governing employment, including procedures for obtaining work permits and mechanisms for recognizing professional qualifications.
It was noted that since the beginning of 2026, more than 47,000 people have extended their temporary protection status, and another approximately 4,700 people have submitted new applications for temporary protection.
As of 2026, more than 130,000 refugees from Ukraine are officially present and residing in the Republic of Moldova.
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