Here's your problem: you just found the best-match programmer for your team. Only issue is, they live in Moldova. Wait, where is Moldova again? Well, it's south of Ukraine, but that's not the issue-the issue is your pro programmer isn't going to leave. In fact, they suggest you set up a shop right there in Chișinău. Let's explore how to do it without actually setting up a physical entity.
Work visa basics in Moldova
Work visas and permits are required for all foreign nationals looking to live and work in Moldova. Securing proper documentation protects both the employer and employee, ensuring full alignment with national immigration and labor laws. Without it, companies risk penalties and jeopardize employees' legal status.
Most non-EU/European Free Trade Association (EFTA) nationals need a work permit before applying for a Type D, or long-stay, visa. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs outlines employer documentation requirements, including company permits, employment contracts, finance statements, educational credentials, health and criminal checks, and proof of accommodation.
What types of work visas do they have in Moldova?
Moldova issues several Type D visas, including:
- D/AM. Employment visas for typical job roles.
- D/AI. Entrepreneur/investor visas for business owners.
- D/IT. IT specialist visas tailored for tech talent
Each comes with specific requirements and accompanying work and residence permits.
Here's how to apply for a Moldova work visa
Initial documentation
Employers start with:
- Company registration, financial health proof, and vacancy justification
- Employment contract
- Employee's valid passport, photos, criminal and medical reports, and proof of accommodation
Work permit process
Applications go to Moldova's National Agency for Employment (ANOFM), often requiring evidence that a local candidate was not available. Permit processing can take 30-60 days. A favorable response lets the employee apply for the Type D visa.
Processing time and follow-up
Expect a combined 60-90 days for permit and Type D visa approval. After entering Moldova, the employee must apply for a temporary residence permit at the General Inspectorate for Migration (IGM) within 30 days.
What are the employer responsibilities?
Employers must:
- File the work permit and demonstrate recruitment efforts
- Monitor visa, permit, and contract expiry
- Adhere to labor standards-wages, conditions, and safety
The National Agency for Employment provides detailed procedural guidance on registering vacancies and compliance.
Tips and resources for a successful application
To ease the process:
- Stay informed. Official sites for the ANOFM, IGM, and Ministry of Internal Affairs keep procedures current
- Prepare documentation. Translate and legalize documents (including degrees and criminal checks) into Romanian
- Build compliance routines. Track renewals and deadlines
How EOR providers can help
Working with an Employer of Record (EOR) simplifies sponsorship. An EOR acts as the legal employer in Moldova, manages visa and permit filings, and ensures full immigration compliance. It also handles HR, payroll, and benefits-freeing companies from needing a local entity. To learn more about EOR and visa support, visit our visa sponsorship glossary article.
Challenges and solutions
Common hurdles
- Incomplete paperwork or certification errors
- Expressing need for foreign hires convincingly
- Waiting periods in bureaucracies
How to overcome them
- Double-check translations and notarization
- Advertise roles to local candidates with record-keeping
- Consider EOR or local legal assistance
Additional considerations for employers
Long-term residence
After annual residence permit renewals, foreign employees may apply for permanent residency following five years of continuous stay.
Switching from tourist to work visa
Tourists cannot convert their visa status in-country-they must exit, apply for a work permit and Type D visa abroad, and then return legally.
Labor law and worker rights
Moldova's Labor Code mandates fair compensation, regulated hours, health and safety protections, and formal contracts. The Ministry of Labour and Social Protection oversees updates.
FAQs
How long does the process take?
The overall timeline can take 60-90 days (30-60 days for the permit and around 30 days for visa processing).
Can a foreigner work without a visa?
No. Working on tourist or short-stay visas is illegal.
Is Moldova's visa process easy?
Moldova's visa process is straightforward if documentation is complete. Working with professionals or an EOR can streamline the procedures.
How Pebl can help
We want to make sure you snag that pro programmer and are able to set up shop anywhere in the world. That's where our Employer of Record service comes in. We act as the legal employer in Moldova which means we handle visa sponsorship, payroll, benefits, compliance, you name it. You focus on finding talent and running your business, we'll do the hiring in Moldova and in 185+ countries worldwide.
This information does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal or tax advice and is for general informational purposes only. The intent of this document is solely to provide general and preliminary information for private use. Do not rely on it as an alternative to legal, financial, taxation, or accountancy advice from an appropriately qualified professional. The content in this guide is provided "as is," and no representations are made that the content is error-free.
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Topic:
Immigration + Relocation
