Errors When Applying for a Residence Permit in Moldova and Reasons for Refusal: How to Avoid The

In 2025, the Bureau for Migration and Asylum (BMA) of Moldova tightened the verification of documents and automated many internal processes. As a result, the number of refusals for residence permits has increased — both for first-time applicants and for those renewing their status.

In this article, we break down the main reasons for refusals, explain how to avoid them, and what to do if your residence permit application is rejected.

Why the Number of Residence Permit Refusals Increased in 2025

The rise in refusals is caused by several important changes:

• stricter automatic verification in MAI and BMA databases;
• documents being checked against international registries via electronic systems;
• foreigners with migration violations are automatically placed in a “risk group”;
• applications filed through “very cheap intermediaries” often contain errors or missing documents;
• higher requirements for proof of residence, income, and legal grounds for the residence permit.

This means one thing: applications must be perfectly accurate, because even a small mistake = refusal.

Main Reasons for Residence Permit Refusals in Moldova

Below are the most common reasons BMA rejects applications.

1. Incomplete document package

This is the most frequent reason for refusal.

Usually missing documents include:

• criminal record certificate;
• proof of address (rental contract, accommodation confirmation);
• valid health insurance;
• document confirming the legal basis (employment contract, marriage certificate, etc.);
• correct and complete translations.

Even one missing document makes the entire file invalid.

2. Errors in translations or apostille

This is a critical point — up to 40% of refusals are due to translation or apostille issues.

Common mistakes include:

• different spelling of names;
• wrong birth dates;
• incomplete translations;
• expired or incorrect apostille;
• missing translator’s signature.

Even a minor discrepancy = refusal.

3. The legal ground for residence does not meet requirements

Each category of residence permit has its own legal conditions.

Examples:

• Residence permit for work → missing employment contract / ANOFM authorization.
• Residence permit through marriage → no proof of joint residence.
• Residence permit based on a child → missing documents from the second parent.
• Student residence permit → no confirmation of enrollment.

If the legal basis is not fully proven — the refusal is inevitable.

4. Mistakes when filling out the application form

Common issues:

• incorrect stay dates;
• mandatory fields left blank;
• outdated or invalid information;
• data that does not match the passport.

BMA treats any inconsistency as an attempt to hide information.

5. Overstaying legal stay in Moldova

Reasons include:

• exceeding the 90/180-day rule;
• late submission of documents;
• incorrect calculation of entry/exit dates.

Any overstay significantly reduces the chance of approval.

6. Insufficient financial proof

To obtain a residence permit, proof of income is required.

Refusals happen when:

• the amount is below the minimum required;
• bank statements do not contain stamps/seals;
• documents do not confirm official income.

7. Problems with address registration

BMA checks the registered address strictly.

Refusal occurs if:

• the address is fictitious;
• the rental contract is invalid;
• the owner does not confirm accommodation;
• the address does not match the application.

8. Violation of migration rules

Even a single fine may trigger additional inspections.

Common reasons:

• illegal employment;
• late registration;
• violation of transit rules;
• previous refusals in Moldova or EU countries.

9. Errors made by unqualified intermediaries

Applicants often seek help from “cheap helpers” without a license.

Consequences:

• incorrect file structure;
• missing key documents;
• incomplete translations;
• application filed under the wrong category;
• no preliminary assessment.

This is one of the most common reasons for refusals in 2024–2025.

What to Do After a Refusal: Can You Apply Again?

A refusal does not end the process.

Important to know:

• you can apply again, but only after correcting the reasons for refusal;
• some categories require a new set of documents;
• if you overstayed, your status must be restored first;
• the state fee usually must be paid again;
• repeat applications may be reviewed more slowly.

In some cases, you can file an appeal, but this is not suitable for all situations.

How to Avoid a Refusal: Lawyer’s Recommendations

Practical tips that significantly reduce the risk of rejection:

1. Make sure your legal basis complies with the law

Each category (work, marriage, study, investment) has specific requirements.

2. Prepare the document package in advance

Important:

• obtain the criminal record certificate within its validity period;
• arrange health insurance beforehand;
• use only authorized translators.

3. Double-check all data in translations

Names, dates, and birthplaces must match 100%.

4. Structure your file according to BMA standards

A well-structured file:

• speeds up verification;
• reduces the need for additional documents;
• builds trust with the authorities.

5. Respect deadlines

Submit documents early — at least 30 days before your status expires.

6. Keep proof of residence

This is essential for marriage-based and work-based residence permits.

7. Avoid unverified intermediaries

Work only with licensed companies that follow BMA standards.

Checklist Before Applying for a Residence Permit

• Are all documents valid and up to date?
• Are translations and apostilles completed?
• Is the legal basis fully confirmed?
• Is the application form error-free?
• Is the address properly registered?
• Is the legal stay period respected?
• Is the file structured correctly?

If the answer to any of these is “no”, the risk of refusal is high.

Get Professional Assistance and Reduce the Risk of Refusal

We provide:

• pre-submission document review;
• file preparation according to BMA standards;
• support throughout all stages of the process;
• solutions for complex cases and correction of refusals.