Moldova Residence Permit via Child: How to Apply and What Documents You Need

Obtaining a residence permit in the Republic of Moldova through a child is one of the most accessible and legal pathways to legalization for foreign nationals. This option is especially relevant for parents of minor children who already hold Moldovan citizenship or resident status. Moldovan legislation provides for humanitarian and family grounds, making this route one of the most flexible and in-demand.

In 2025, the residence permit application process via a child includes a defined set of documents, requirements, and stages. In this article, we will explain who is eligible for such a permit, what documents are needed, how to apply, and what the process costs. We will also answer frequently asked questions and provide practical legal tips.

Who Can Obtain a Residence Permit in Moldova via a Child

A residence permit in Moldova via a child is granted to one or both parents of a minor child if the child holds Moldovan citizenship or legally resides in the country. This basis is applied within the framework of family reunification policies and protection of the child’s best interests.

Eligible applicants include:

  • Biological parents, where at least one has Moldovan citizenship or a residence permit;
  • Adoptive parents, if the adoption has been officially recognized;
  • Legal guardians appointed by a court or authority;
  • Parents of foreign minors who already hold temporary or permanent residence in Moldova.

Note: In practice, applicants who can prove cohabitation with the child in Moldova, stable income, and a clean criminal record are more likely to be approved.

The status of the second parent is also taken into account. If one parent is a Moldovan citizen and the other is a foreign national, the latter can apply for residence via the child. However, additional documents may be required, such as the other parent’s notarized consent.

Legal Grounds for Obtaining

The issuance of a residence permit in Moldova via a child is governed by migration legislation and aims to protect the interests of minors, ensure the right to family life, and promote family reunification.

Main legal grounds include:

  • Law No. 200 of 16.07.2010 “On the Regime of Foreigners in the Republic of Moldova”;
  • Government Decision No. 765/2014 — regulation on submitting residence permit documents;
  • Applicable international agreements (e.g., for citizens of Ukraine, Russia, etc.).

According to Article 38 of Law No. 200/2010, a foreign citizen may apply for a residence permit if they are the parent of a minor who is either a Moldovan citizen or a legal resident (holder of temporary or permanent residence) and if they have sufficient financial means and housing.

There may also be humanitarian grounds — for example, when the child requires care and the other parent is absent or uninvolved. Each case is considered individually.

Thus, a residence permit via a child is not only a legal but also a justified and viable pathway for parents or legal guardians to obtain status in Moldova.

What Documents Are Needed

To apply for a residence permit in Moldova via a child in 2025, you must submit an official set of documents that confirm both your relationship with the child and your legal presence in the country. The full set should be prepared in advance, considering the validity periods and the need for translation.

Required documents:

  1. Applicant’s passport – valid foreign passport with visa or entry stamp.
  2. Child’s birth certificate – original and notarized Romanian translation.
  3. Document confirming the child’s status:
    • Moldovan citizenship (passport or ID);
    • or residence permit / permanent residence card.
  4. Documents confirming relationship or guardianship:
    • birth certificate;
    • court or guardianship authority decision (if applicable).
  5. Police clearance certificate – issued no more than 3 months before submission, translated and legalized.
  6. Proof of accommodation – rental agreement, property ownership certificate, or letter of guarantee.
  7. Proof of financial means – bank statement, employment certificate, or sponsorship letter.

Additional documents:

  • Consent from the second parent (if not applying jointly);
  • Photos 3.5 × 4.5 cm (1–2 pcs);
  • Application form (official template).

All foreign-language documents must be translated into Romanian and notarized.

Table: Key Documents

Document Where to obtain Validity
Passport Migration Office / Embassy Until expiration
Police clearance Ministry of Internal Affairs (home country) 90 days
Insurance Any accredited company 1 year
Income certificate Employer / Bank 30 days

Application Process and Timelines

The process of obtaining a residence permit in Moldova via a child consists of several steps. It’s crucial to follow each step carefully and respect submission deadlines to avoid refusals or delays.

Step-by-step guide:

  1. Document preparation

    • Gather all required documents (see previous section).
    • Check validity dates and ensure all translations are notarized.

  2. Appointment booking

    • Schedule an appointment with the Bureau for Migration and Asylum (BMA) in person or via the online system.
    • Select the date and time for submission.

  3. Submitting the application

    • On the appointed day, submit the full set of documents to the local BMA office.
    • Fill out the application form and receive your registration number.

  4. Biometric data

    • On the same day, your photo and fingerprints will be taken.

  5. Awaiting decision

    • Processing time is 30 calendar days from the application date.
    • For complex or disputed cases — up to 60 days.

  6. Receiving the residence permit

    • Once approved, pay the state fee and collect your plastic residence card.
    • Validity: usually 1 year, renewable.

Where to apply:

  • General Directorate for Migration and Asylum (Chișinău)
  • Or local territorial offices based on the applicant’s place of residence.

Tip: Start preparing your documents 1–2 months before your legal stay expires to avoid fines and deportation.

How Much Does It Cost to Obtain a Residence Permit

Obtaining a residence permit in Moldova via a child involves several mandatory payments. The main costs are related to state fees, issuance of certificates, notary services, and health insurance.

Additional expenses:

  • Legal or intermediary services (optional);
  • Courier delivery of documents (if processed remotely);
  • Apostille and legalization of documents (depending on the country of origin).

Note: All payments must be supported by official receipts. It is recommended to keep copies of receipts until the residence permit expires.

How to Extend a Residence Permit Obtained via a Child

Extending a residence permit in Moldova via a child is a mandatory procedure that must be done annually (or as required) to maintain legal status. Failure to comply can result in the permit being revoked and the applicant being deported.

When to apply for an extension:

  • No later than 30 calendar days before the current residence permit expires.
  • In urgent cases, submission is allowed within 15 days after expiry, but may result in a fine.

Extension conditions:

  • The child continues to reside in Moldova;
  • The parent remains responsible for care duties;
  • Financial means and housing are still available.

Required documents:

  • Applicant’s passport and current residence card;
  • Child’s birth certificate;
  • Documents proving the child’s residence and legal status;
  • Updated police clearance certificate;
  • Medical insurance;
  • Proof of income;
  • Proof of accommodation;
  • Receipt for state fee payment.

Extension procedure:

  1. Prepare the document package;
  2. Schedule an appointment with the BMA;
  3. Submit the application and biometric data;
  4. Wait for a decision — up to 30 days;
  5. Receive the new residence permit card.

Special cases:

  • If the child turns 18, extension is possible only on other grounds;
  • If the child loses their status (e.g., moves abroad), the parent’s basis for residence may be invalidated.

Tip: Don’t delay the extension — document delays can lead to rejection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I get a residence permit if my child was born in Moldova but has no citizenship?
Yes, in some cases it is possible to obtain a permit if the child has temporary or permanent resident status. However, the process is more complex and requires proof of the child's legal residence in Moldova.

2. Is the other parent's consent mandatory?
If the other parent lives abroad or is not involved in child-rearing, a notarized consent form or documents proving lack of contact (court ruling, guardianship papers) will be required.

3. Can I apply for a residence permit via a child if I already live illegally in Moldova?
Yes, but it depends on the situation. A permit may be granted alongside status regularization. It is strongly advised to consult with a migration lawyer in advance.

4. Does a residence permit via a child grant the right to work in Moldova?
Not automatically. Legal employment may require an additional work permit or a residence permit with work rights.

5. Can I apply remotely without visiting in person?
No. Personal presence is mandatory at least for biometric data submission and collecting the residence card.

Lawyer’s Tips

Applying for a residence permit in Moldova via a child may seem straightforward, but it often involves bureaucratic and legal complexities. Below are expert tips from migration lawyers to help you avoid mistakes and speed up the process.

1. Start preparing documents early
Some documents (especially from abroad) may take up to 30 days to obtain, and they often have limited validity. Ideally, start preparation at least 2 months before submission.

2. Verify your child’s legal residence status
Even if your child lives in Moldova, you must provide official proof of status: citizenship, temporary, or permanent residence.

3. Consider the other parent’s role
If you cannot provide the other parent’s consent, prepare a legal justification (e.g., divorce, loss of parental rights, no contact). This is a common reason for application denials.

4. Be careful with the rental agreement
The landlord must be ready to confirm your residence. Use officially registered agreements, preferably notarized.

5. Don’t submit an incomplete application
Missing documents, incorrect translations, or weak justification may result in rejection. It’s best to consult the BMA or a lawyer in advance.

6. Don’t ignore renewals or changes in personal data
Any change in address, passport, or insurance must be promptly reported to avoid legal violations.

Remember: even with a valid reason for obtaining residency, following the procedure correctly is key. A professional approach significantly increases your chances of approval on the first try.

Conclusion

Obtaining a residence permit in Moldova via a child is a legitimate and viable pathway to legal status for parents or guardians, especially when the child already has citizenship or resident status. Moldovan law supports family reunification, and with proper documentation, the procedure is transparent and predictable.

It is important to research the requirements in advance, gather all necessary documents, and consider specific nuances regarding the second parent and the child’s residence. Status renewal also requires discipline and attention to deadlines.

If you’re unsure about any aspect — consult with a migration lawyer or contact relevant organizations. This can help save time and reduce the chance of refusal.

Always stay informed about legal updates and rely on official sources.