The document introduces clear rules for 23 purposes of stay of foreigners in our country, including work (including highly qualified), self-employment, study, scientific research, professional internships, educational programs and economic mobility.
At the same time, it provides for new forms of legal migration, such as work in case of transfer within the same company (ICT sector), au pair and student exchange programs, study, research and development activities, professional training through internships.
The law also provides for the digitalization of processes, allows applications, including online, and introduces a residence permit, which replaces many documents and simplifies interaction with the authorities.
In addition, the new law supports labor mobility and investment attraction through clear procedures for national employers and foreign investors, as well as a predictable legal regime for all categories of foreigners.
At the same time, the project provides a competitive advantage to sectors experiencing staff shortages by supporting mobility and recruitment of labor for short-term periods (up to 90 days).
The law is to be adopted by the Parliament and enter into force on June 1, 2027. It will replace the current Law on the Regime of Foreigners in the Republic of Moldova.
At the beginning of 2026, more than 21,500 foreigners and stateless persons from more than 130 countries (excluding refugees from Ukraine) were registered on the territory of Moldova. Of these, about 5,600 had the right to permanent residence and about 16,000 had the right to temporary residence.
