Can You Travel to Europe with a Moldovan Residence Permit? Everything You Need to Know

Every year, more and more foreigners obtain a residence permit in Moldova — a country with favorable immigration policies and a strategic location in Europe. However, one of the most common questions from new residents is: can you travel to Europe with a Moldovan residence permit without a visa?

At first glance, having residency in a European country may seem like it grants automatic access to the Schengen Area. But is it really that simple? In this article, we’ll explore what a Moldovan residence permit offers, whether it allows visa-free travel to the EU, and what important details residents should know.

What Does a Moldovan Residence Permit Offer: Rights and Limitations

A Moldovan residence permit is an official document that allows a foreign national to legally reside in the country for an extended period. It can be granted on various grounds such as employment, studies, investment, marriage to a Moldovan citizen, and more.

Main rights of a residence permit holder:

the right to legally live in Moldova;
access to medical, educational, and banking services;
ability to rent or purchase real estate;
sign long-term contracts and conduct business;
no visa required to enter Moldova.

Limitations:

A residence permit is not equivalent to citizenship — holders cannot vote or participate in the country’s political life;
The Moldovan residence permit does not grant automatic visa-free entry into EU or Schengen countries;
The permit is time-limited and must be renewed upon expiration.

In summary, the Moldovan residence permit offers several advantages within the country, but it does not ensure unrestricted travel across Europe.

Moldovan Residence Permit and Travel in Europe: Facts vs. Myths

Although Moldova is geographically located in Europe, it is not a member of the European Union and not part of the Schengen Area. This means that holding a Moldovan residence permit does not grant visa-free travel rights in the EU.

What does this mean in practice?

Holders of a Moldovan residence permit must apply for a Schengen visa to travel to most European countries.
A Moldovan residence permit is not equivalent to a Schengen visa and does not offer the same rights.
You cannot enter countries like France, Germany, or Italy with just your residence permit — you need an additional visa.

However, there are exceptions:

Permit holders who are also citizens of countries with visa-free access to the EU (e.g., Ukraine, Georgia, Turkey) can travel using their passport, subject to the 90/180 day rule.
The residence permit can facilitate the issuance of a Schengen visa, especially if you have legal employment, stable income, and property ownership.

Common myths:

«You can freely travel across Europe with a Moldovan residence permit» — false.
«A Moldovan residence permit works like an EU residence permit» — not true.

Therefore, when planning travel to Europe, it's essential to understand the legal framework and not rely solely on the existence of a residence permit.

Exceptions and Special Cases

Although the Moldovan residence permit does not itself grant visa-free access to the EU, there are specific scenarios where holders may have additional advantages or encounter unique situations.

1. Dual Citizenship or Foreign Passport

If a Moldovan residence permit holder also has citizenship of a country with visa-free access to the EU — such as Ukraine, Georgia, Israel, or Turkey — they can use their passport from that country to enter the Schengen Area. The residence permit remains valid solely for staying in Moldova.

Important: You will pass border control in Europe based on your passport, not your Moldovan residence permit.

2. Travel to CIS and Balkan Countries

Some countries outside the Schengen Area but within Europe or the region have bilateral agreements with Moldova that may simplify travel:

Romania and Bulgaria – EU members, but not fully integrated into Schengen. A visa is required, but the Moldovan residence permit may ease the process.
Turkey, Serbia, Ukraine, Belarus – entry may be possible with just a passport, depending on your citizenship.

3. Type of Residence Permit Matters

The basis of your residence permit can influence your travel flexibility:

Investment-based permit – can increase trust during visa application;
Employment in an international company – a strong point for obtaining multiple-entry visas;
Family reunification with an EU citizen – may offer specific benefits when applying for visas or residence in EU countries.

How to Make Traveling in Europe Easier with a Moldovan Residence Permit

While a Moldovan residence permit does not grant visa-free access to Schengen, it can significantly simplify the visa application process, especially if you legally live, work, or invest in the country.

1. Increased chances of getting a Schengen visa

EU consulates generally view applicants with a Moldovan residence permit positively if they:

have stable income;
are legally employed;
maintain bank accounts and pay taxes;
own property or hold long-term rental agreements.

This builds trust and increases your chances of receiving a multiple-entry visa (valid for 1–5 years).

2. Where to submit the documents?

Typically, applications are submitted to the consulate of the destination country located in Chișinău. Most EU embassies accept applications from non-citizens residing in Moldova.

3. Tips to simplify visa-related travel:

Maintain a clean visa history (exit the Schengen Area on time);
Keep documentation of previous trips: tickets, bookings, invitations;
Get international travel insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000;
Use the same consulate consistently to build trust — this helps secure faster and longer-term visas in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do I need a visa to travel to Romania or Bulgaria with a Moldovan residence permit?

Yes. Despite geographical and cultural proximity, Romania and Bulgaria are part of the EU and, since 2024, partially in the Schengen Area (air and sea borders). A Moldovan residence permit does not replace a visa, so you will need to obtain a Schengen or national visa.

Can I live in EU countries with a Moldovan residence permit?

No. A Moldovan residence permit only grants the right to live in Moldova. To live in another European country, you must obtain a residence permit from that country. Exceptions apply if you have dual citizenship or other legal grounds (e.g., employment, studies, or marriage in the EU).

What visa advantages does a Moldovan residence permit offer?

Increased chances of getting a multiple-entry Schengen visa;
Ability to apply from within Moldova (no need to return to your home country);
Added credibility through financial and social integration in Moldova.

Can I travel to the Schengen Area with a Moldovan residence permit and Ukrainian (or other visa-free) passport?

Yes. In this case, you travel using your Ukrainian, Georgian, Turkish, or similar passport, not the Moldovan residence permit. Visa-free access is determined by the passport, not the residence permit.

Conclusion

Can you travel to Europe with a Moldovan residence permit? — Yes, but with certain limitations. A Moldovan residence permit does not automatically grant visa-free access to the Schengen Area. However, it simplifies the visa process, especially if you're legally residing and socially integrated in Moldova.

Key takeaways:

The Moldovan residence permit offers many advantages within the country but does not replace a Schengen visa.
When planning travel in Europe, consider your passport type, residence status, and EU visa regulations.
The permit helps build trust for multiple-entry visas and can make European travel more accessible long-term.

Planning to get a Moldovan residence permit or looking to simplify your trips to Europe? Subscribe to the blog for useful insights and contact us — we’ll be happy to assist you!