Temporary Protection vs. Refugee Status in the Republic of Moldova

In 2025, the Republic of Moldova continues to offer two key legal mechanisms for foreign nationals, especially those from conflict zones: temporary protection and refugee status. Both options provide certain rights and guarantees but differ in application procedures, duration, and legal consequences.

If you’re in a difficult situation and unsure which status to choose, this article will help you decide. We’ll compare both mechanisms in detail, explain who each one is for, and provide step-by-step guidance on how to apply.

What is Temporary Protection in the Republic of Moldova

Temporary protection is a special legal mechanism introduced by the Government of the Republic of Moldova to respond swiftly to the mass influx of displaced persons, primarily from Ukraine, amid a humanitarian crisis.

It allows individuals to obtain temporary shelter without going through the full refugee status determination process, which is crucial in emergency situations.

Legal basis:

The temporary protection mechanism was activated by Government Decision No. 21 of January 18, 2023, and extended until March 1, 2026. This decision was made in line with Moldova’s international commitments and EU recommendations.

Who is eligible:

  • Citizens of Ukraine and stateless persons who resided permanently in Ukraine.
  • Their family members (including citizens of other countries if they are spouses or children).
  • Other categories of persons recognized as being in need of protection.

Rights granted under temporary protection:

  • Residence in Moldova without the need for a visa.
  • The right to work without additional permits.
  • Access to medical care, including emergency and basic services.
  • Access to education for children in public institutions.
  • Temporary accommodation and humanitarian assistance.
  • The ability to open bank accounts and register businesses.

Validity period:

  • Initially granted until March 1, 2024, but extended until March 1, 2026.
  • Further extensions depend on the situation in the country of origin and government decisions.

Restrictions:

  • Does not automatically grant the right to permanent residence or citizenship.
  • May be revoked if the person violates Moldovan laws or loses eligibility for protection.
  • Traveling abroad may result in the loss of the status.

What is Refugee Status in the Republic of Moldova

Refugee status is an internationally recognized form of protection granted to individuals who face persecution in their home country based on race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group, or political opinion.

In Moldova, the procedure for obtaining refugee status is regulated by Law No. 270 of December 18, 2008, “On Asylum in the Republic of Moldova.”

Who can apply for refugee status:

  • Foreign nationals on the territory of Moldova who cannot return to their country due to a well-founded fear of persecution.
  • Stateless persons who previously resided in territories where their safety is at risk.
  • Citizens of any country (not only Ukraine) who have serious reasons to fear for their safety.

Grounds for granting refugee status:

  • A real threat to life or freedom.
  • Past experiences of violence, threats, imprisonment, or discrimination.
  • Participation in political, social, or other activities that led to persecution.

How the procedure works:

  1. Application submission to the territorial offices of the General Inspectorate for Migration (GIM).
  2. Preliminary review to determine the admissibility of the request.
  3. Main interview during which the applicant provides evidence of the threats faced.
  4. Decision on granting or denying the status — usually within 6 months, but extensions are possible.

Rights of persons with refugee status:

  • The right to reside and move freely within Moldova.
  • Issuance of a temporary identity document (foreign refugee card).
  • The right to work, access education, and receive healthcare.
  • The right to family reunification.
  • The possibility to apply for permanent residence and, eventually, Moldovan citizenship.

Validity and renewal:

  • The status is granted indefinitely but may be reviewed if the situation in the country of origin changes.
  • Stable integration into Moldovan society allows for naturalization.

Limitations and risks:

  • A longer and more complex procedure compared to temporary protection.
  • Applicants must provide substantial evidence of persecution or threats.
  • In case of rejection, deportation is possible unless other legal grounds for residence exist.

Comparison Table: Temporary Protection vs. Refugee Status in Moldova

Criteria Temporary Protection Refugee Status
Legal basis Government Decision No. 21/2023 of the Republic of Moldova Law No. 270/2008 on Asylum
Who is eligible Ukrainian citizens and persons affected by the conflict Any foreigner persecuted in their country of origin
Application procedure Simplified, no interview required Longer, includes interview and verification
Validity period Until March 1, 2026 (may be extended) Indefinite, subject to review if the situation changes
Right to work Yes, without a work permit Yes, without restrictions
Medical assistance Yes, basic Yes, full coverage under Moldovan law
Children’s education Yes Yes
Freedom of movement Within Moldova only Within the country, with the possibility to travel abroad
Path to permanent residence/citizenship No Yes, naturalization possible
Risks May be revoked once the program ends Refusal possible if evidence is insufficient
Best suited for Short-term protection during conflict Long-term integration and protection

How to Choose: Situations and Recommendations

Choosing between temporary protection and refugee status in Moldova depends on your personal situation, future plans, and legal circumstances. Below are practical recommendations to help you make an informed decision.

When temporary protection is suitable:

  • You came from a conflict zone (for example, Ukraine) and wish to stay in Moldova temporarily.
  • You need a quick solution without lengthy procedures.
  • You don’t have strong grounds for refugee status, but returning home is currently impossible.
  • You are not planning to apply for citizenship or permanent residence yet.

Example: A family from Kharkiv who left in 2022 wants to live in Moldova for 1–2 years until the situation stabilizes — temporary protection suits them best.

When it’s better to apply for refugee status:

  • You have faced persecution in your home country (for political, religious, or other reasons).
  • Returning home is not possible in the foreseeable future.
  • You want long-term protection with the possibility of naturalization.
  • You have evidence of threats (documents, testimonies, publications).

Example: A journalist who criticized the regime in his country received threats and fled to Moldova — applying for refugee status is the logical choice.

Tips before making a decision:

  • Consult a lawyer or a migration-focused NGO.
  • Clearly define your goal: temporary stay or long-term protection.
  • Compare risks: rejection of refugee status may lead to deportation, while temporary protection ends automatically.
  • Review deadlines, renewal terms, and integration opportunities.

Important: you cannot apply for both temporary protection and asylum at the same time — you must choose one path.

Practical Steps for Each Procedure

To obtain temporary protection or refugee status in Moldova, it’s important to understand what actions to take, where to apply, and what documents to prepare. Below are step-by-step instructions.

How to Obtain Temporary Protection in Moldova

  1. Check if you are eligible for protection
    The main criterion is Ukrainian citizenship or stateless persons who resided in Ukraine before February 24, 2022.

  2. Register

    • Online at: dopomoga.gov.md

    • Or in person — at the territorial offices of the General Inspectorate for Migration (GIM).

    • Registration can also be done through Accommodation Centers.

  3. Submit the required documents

    • Passport or other identity document.

    • Birth certificates of children (if applying with family).

    • Any documents proving arrival from a conflict zone.

  4. Receive confirmation of status

    • A temporary identity document will be issued.

    • This grants rights to residence, employment, assistance, and more.

  5. Monitor validity dates

    • The status is valid until 01.03.2026, but it’s recommended to follow official updates.

How to Apply for Refugee Status in Moldova

  1. Contact the territorial GIM office or Border Service
    You can submit your application either at the border or within Moldova (preferably as soon as possible after entry).

  2. Submit a written application

    • State the reasons why you cannot return to your country of origin.

    • Describe your situation in as much detail as possible.

  3. Register your application

    • You will receive confirmation that your application has been accepted.

    • You will be issued a temporary document (asylum seeker certificate).

  4. Prepare for the interview

    • The interview is conducted by an asylum officer.

    • You must provide evidence: documents, publications, certificates, testimonies.

  5. Wait for the decision

    • A decision is usually made within 6 months (extensions possible).

    • If rejected, you have the right to appeal.

  6. If approved

    • You will receive refugee status, an identity document, and access to all rights provided by law.

Common Mistakes and What to Pay Attention To

The procedures for obtaining temporary protection or refugee status in Moldova may seem straightforward, but in practice, many people make mistakes that can affect the outcome or even lead to rejection. Below is a list of common issues and tips on how to avoid them.

1. Choosing the wrong type of protection

  • People often choose temporary protection when they actually qualify for refugee status – or vice versa.
  • It’s important to understand your goal: short-term stay – temporary protection; long-term integration – refugee status.

2. Submitting the application too late

  • The asylum or refugee application should be submitted as soon as possible after entering Moldova.
  • Delays may raise suspicions from the migration authorities.

3. Incomplete documentation

  • Even if the process is simplified (as with temporary protection), you must provide proof of identity, family relationships, and displacement.
  • For refugee status, it’s crucial to submit evidence of threats (articles, summons, videos, witness statements, etc.).

4. Contradictory information

  • Inconsistent statements, conflicting answers during interviews, or false information are common reasons for refusal.
  • Always tell the truth and maintain consistency in your statements.

5. Ignoring legal consequences

  • Temporary protection does not provide a direct path to citizenship – many realize this too late.
  • Refugee status, on the other hand, can lead to naturalization, but it takes time and compliance with legal requirements.

6. Leaving the country without notice

  • For those under temporary protection, leaving Moldova may result in the automatic loss of status.
  • For refugees, restrictions apply, especially when visiting their country of origin.

7. Lack of legal consultation

  • Filing applications “blindly” or through unqualified intermediaries can result in rejection.
  • It’s best to consult with a lawyer or specialized organizations such as UNHCR, IOM, or CNRR.

What’s Next? Perspectives and Alternative Legal Options

Choosing between temporary protection and refugee status is only the first step. It’s essential to understand the opportunities and limitations that come after obtaining one of these statuses. In addition, there are alternative legal pathways for residence in the Republic of Moldova.

If you have temporary protection:

  • Validity period – until March 1, 2026 (may be extended).

  • After expiration – either an extension (if approved by the authorities) or the need to find another legal residence option.

  • What you can do in advance:

    • Explore the possibility of applying for refugee status.

    • Apply for a residence permit on other grounds (employment, marriage, business).

    • Learn about integration, education, and employment programs.

If you have refugee status:

  • This is a stable legal status that can lead to:

    • Permanent residence (after 5 years).

    • Moldovan citizenship (after 8 years of total residence, including time as a refugee).

  • It’s important to comply with local laws, take part in integration programs, learn the language, and work legally — these actions increase your chances of successful adaptation and naturalization.

Alternative forms of legalization:

  • Humanitarian status – for those who cannot prove persecution but cannot return home (for example, due to illness or natural disasters).
  • Labor migration – based on an official employment contract.
  • University studies in Moldova – eligible for a student residence permit.
  • Marriage to a Moldovan citizen – grounds for residence and, later, citizenship.
  • Business immigration – by registering a company or investing in Moldova’s economy.

Key takeaway:

Choosing a status is only the beginning. Regardless of your path, it’s crucial to follow legal updates, renew documents on time, plan ahead, and use all available legal opportunities to build a stable life in Moldova.