Moldova Work Permits & Visas: Processes for Employers

Looking to sponsor an international hire in Moldova? This guide breaks down what employers need to know — from visa types to employer obligations and timelines. Whether you're hiring locally or relocating international talent, we've got you covered.

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Milani Notshe

Research Specialist

Last Updated

July 11, 2025

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Hiring Foreign Talent in Moldova: What Employers Need to Know

Are you an employer looking to sponsor international talent in Moldova? Navigating Moldova’s visa and work permit process can be complex — especially without a local legal entity or dedicated HR team.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about employer-sponsored work visas in Moldova, including processing times, documentation, and local compliance rules. Whether relocating a team member or hiring locally, Playroll simplifies visa sponsorship through an end-to-end employer of record platform.

Key Takeaways

Employers must be registered with the Moldovan immigration authorities to sponsor foreign workers.

The work permit process takes about 2-4 weeks.

The most common visas are the Temporary Work Visa (€50) and the Employment Visa (€70).

Independent contractors follow a separate process, typically applying for a self-employment visa.

Work permits are location-specific, and changes to the job or location may require additional approval.

Who Needs a Work Permit in Moldova

In Moldova, foreign nationals who intend to work for a Moldovan employer or start a business must apply for a work permit. Work permits are typically required for non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens. If an employee is from the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland, they do not need a work permit. However, they may still need to register with the authorities if they plan to stay for an extended period. Employers hiring non-EU nationals must ensure they obtain the proper work permit before the employee can begin their employment in Moldova.

Foreign workers are generally required to have a work permit regardless of the length of stay or type of work, with a few exemptions such as intra-company transfers, diplomats, and specific types of international organizations.

Types of Work Visas in Moldova

Moldova offers several types of work visas depending on the nature of the work and the employee’s nationality. These work visas are designed to facilitate the employment of foreign nationals in Moldova, with different categories based on the duration and nature of employment.

Visa Type Description
Short-Term Work Visa For employees intending to work in Moldova for less than 90 days in a calendar year.
Long-Term Work Visa For foreign employees who will be employed for more than 90 days, generally for one year or more.
Intra-Company Transfer Visa For employees being transferred from a foreign branch to a Moldovan subsidiary or branch.
Self-Employed Visa For foreign nationals who wish to start their own business or become self-employed in Moldova.

Common Hiring Scenarios for Moldova

When hiring talent in Moldova, employers typically choose one of three pathways depending on the role, duration, & legal requirements. Below are the most common models.

Use Case 1: Sponsoring a Foreign Employee via Work Permit or Visa

This is the most common route for companies hiring full-time foreign talent in Moldova. To sponsor this visa, an employer (or Playroll as the Employer of Record) must have a registered legal entity in-country and issue a compliant offer of employment.

Key Employer Considerations:

  • Sponsorship is required — contractors or freelancers cannot apply under this visa.
  • Employees must remain in the approved work location unless authorized to relocate or change employers.
  • Processing timelines vary (approximately 2-4 weeks), depending on the consulate or embassy.

This is best for: Long-term roles with in-office or hybrid presence in Moldova.

Use Case 2: Hiring a Foreign Contractor in Moldova

Independent professionals in Moldova can legally work with international clients without employer sponsorship, but must comply with local tax registration and reporting laws.

With Playroll’s Contractor Management solution, you can:

  • Draft fully compliant local contractor agreements.
  • Automate contractor invoicing and cross-border payments, in Moroccan Dirham (MAD) or USD.
  • Mitigate risk of permanent establishment and contractor misclassification.

This is best for: Freelancers, consultants or project-based roles, especially if the worker already lives in Moldova.

Use Case 3: Relocating an Existing Employee to Moldova

Transferring an existing team member to Moldova? You’ll still need to navigate the same visa and payroll setup process. Even if the employee works for you elsewhere, a local employer of record is required to stay compliant.

EOR’s, like Playroll, handle all local steps, including:

  • Work permit sponsorship and immigration paperwork,
  • Registration with local authorities and payroll systems,
  • Enrollment in mandatory benefits and statutory schemes.

This is best for: Internal transfers or remote-first companies looking to expand into Africa, or talent retention offerings for global mobility programs.

Not Sure What to Pay in Moldova? Compare fair, local salaries with our free benchmarking tool.

Requirements For a Work Permit in Moldova

The requirements for a work permit in Moldova depend on the type of work and the applicant's nationality. In general, foreign nationals must meet specific criteria to obtain a work permit, including having a valid job offer, meeting educational and professional qualifications, and securing health insurance.

  • Job Offer: The foreign national must have a signed employment contract with a Moldovan employer.
  • Qualifications: Depending on the job, the foreign employee must demonstrate relevant qualifications, experience, and education.
  • Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance coverage is required for the applicant for the entire duration of stay in Moldova.
  • No Local Candidate Available: Employers must show that there are no suitable local candidates for the position, particularly for highly specialized roles.

Moldova Work Permit Application Process

Applying for a work permit in Moldova follows a structured process. Employers should be prepared to provide detailed information about the foreign employee and the position. The process typically includes the following steps:

  1. Submit a work permit application to the Moldovan authorities (Employment Agency or Immigration Department).
  2. Provide documentation, including the employee’s passport, employment contract, proof of qualifications, and health insurance.
  3. The authorities will review the application, conduct a labor market test to verify if a local candidate is unavailable, and issue the permit if all criteria are met.
  4. Once approved, the employee can apply for a visa or residence permit, depending on the work permit’s duration.
  5. The employee enters Moldova and begins work upon arrival.

Process for Visa Sponsorship In Moldova

Visa sponsorship in Moldova is an essential part of the work permit application process. Employers must act as sponsors for foreign employees, ensuring that the worker complies with Moldovan immigration laws. The employer is responsible for submitting the visa application, providing supporting documents, and paying any applicable fees. The employer must also ensure the worker adheres to the legal work permit regulations during their stay in Moldova.

What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in Moldova

The fees for work permits and visas in Moldova can vary based on the type of permit or visa. Below is a general overview of the fees associated with work permits and visas in Moldova.

Visa Type Application Fee
Short-Term Work Visa €50
Long-Term Work Visa €100
Intra-Company Transfer Visa €80
Self-Employed Visa €150

Processing Time for a Work Permit Or Visa in Moldova

The processing time for work permits and visas in Moldova typically ranges from 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the complexity of the application and the type of visa or work permit. For specialized or high-demand positions, the process may take longer if additional documents or justifications are required. It is advisable for employers to submit applications well in advance to allow for sufficient processing time.

Work Permit Renewal Periods in Moldova

Work permits in Moldova are generally issued for one year but can be renewed if the foreign employee continues to meet the criteria. Employers must apply for a renewal before the expiration of the current permit. In some cases, renewal may be granted for additional years depending on the position and the foreign national's employment status.

Visa Requirements For Digital Nomads in Moldova

Digital nomads planning to work remotely for a foreign employer while staying in Moldova may be eligible for a short-term work visa. While Moldova does not currently offer a specific "digital nomad visa," digital workers can apply for a short-term work visa or a self-employed visa, depending on their business status.

  • Requirement 1: Proof of sufficient income or financial resources to support their stay in Moldova.
  • Requirement 2: Proof of employment or business ownership outside Moldova.
  • Requirement 3: Health insurance valid for the duration of their stay.

Common Challenges and Tips for Employers Hiring in Moldova

Hiring foreign employees in Moldova can come with challenges, particularly navigating the regulatory landscape, dealing with language barriers, and ensuring that work permits are processed correctly. Employers should be mindful of these potential issues and take steps to ensure compliance with Moldovan immigration and labor laws.

  • Challenge 1: Navigating the Work Permit Application Process – Employers need to ensure that the required documentation is complete and submitted on time.
  • Challenge 2: Language Barriers – Moldovan is the official language, which may cause difficulties for non-Moldovan speakers in terms of communication with government authorities.
  • Challenge 3: Availability of Local Talent – Employers must demonstrate that no suitable local candidate is available for specialized positions.

Hire Global employees without hassle with an EOR solution

Expanding your workforce across international borders is an exciting step, but it can be a logistical nightmare to hire and pay employees in different countries. That’s the advantage of using a trusted Employer of Record like Playroll. They can:

  • Handle your international payroll: An EOR will act as your payroll provider, paying your employees on your behalf in the local currency. The company will also have in-depth knowledge of local tax codes, regulatory practices, and everything else that goes into managing global payroll.
  • Alleviate compliance concerns: Different countries each have their own federal and local laws governing employee payments. An EOR helps ensure that you are compliant with the unique set of laws for any country in which your company operates. This is extremely important since a compliance slip-up can result in heavy fines or even a lawsuit.
  • Hire and pay international contractors: Sometimes a particular project or role doesn’t require hiring a full-time employee. An EOR gives employers the flexibility to also hire contractors as needed, and avoid the potential for misclassification under local labor law.

Disclaimer

THIS CONTENT IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE LEGAL OR TAX ADVICE. You should always consult with and rely on your own legal and/or tax advisor(s). Playroll does not provide legal or tax advice. The information is general and not tailored to a specific company or workforce and does not reflect Playroll’s product delivery in any given jurisdiction. Playroll makes no representations or warranties concerning the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of this information and shall have no liability arising out of or in connection with it, including any loss caused by use of, or reliance on, the information.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Milani Notshe

Milani is a seasoned research and content specialist at Playroll, a leading Employer Of Record (EOR) provider. Backed by a strong background in Politics, Philosophy and Economics, she specializes in identifying emerging compliance and global HR trends to keep employers up to date on the global employment landscape.

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FAQs about Work Permits & Visas in Moldova

Can Playroll sponsor a visa in Moldova?

We don’t currently sponsor visas in Moldova — but we can still help. Our in-house compliance team supports employers through every stage of the visa process: helping you compile documentation, set timelines, and coordinate with our network of trusted local immigration advisors.

If you’re looking to hire in Moldova, book a demo and we’ll help you prepare, flag potential issues, and streamline the path to compliant onboarding.

What is the difference between a work permit and a work visa in Moldova?

A work permit in Moldova allows a foreign national to work in the country, while a work visa enables the foreign national to enter and stay in Moldova for work purposes. The work visa is typically required before the work permit is issued.

How long does it take to process a work permit or visa in Moldova?

The processing time for a work permit or visa in Moldova is generally between 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the type of application and the completeness of the required documentation.

What are the requirements for sponsoring a work permit or visa in Moldova?

Employers sponsoring a work permit or visa must submit an application, provide a valid job offer, prove the employee’s qualifications, and ensure compliance with Moldovan labor and immigration laws.

What types of work permits and visas are available in Moldova?

Moldova offers several types of work permits and visas, including short-term work visas, long-term work visas, intra-company transfer visas, and self-employed visas. Each is designed for different types of foreign workers based on the length of stay and the nature of employment.