Moldova has become the latest country to target remote workers with a digital nomad visa programme, offering residency permits requiring just US$1,500-$2,000 in monthly income. Olivia Palamountain reports

Moldova has launched a digital nomad visa programme allowing remote workers to live in the Eastern European country for up to two years, with relatively low income requirements compared to other European destinations.

The programme, effective from September 20, 2025, targets foreign nationals working remotely for employers or clients registered outside Moldova, including freelancers, employees and business owners. Successful applicants receive temporary work and residence permits with possibility of renewal beyond the initial two-year period.

Income requirements range from US$1,500 to US$2,000 monthly, positioning Moldova as an accessible option compared to many other European countries. Applicants must provide proof of remote employment, one year of medical insurance, a clean criminal record certificate and evidence of accommodation within Moldova.

The application process is expected to operate through the Bureau of Migration and Asylum (BMA), either online (a specific website has yet to be launched) or in person, with processing fees between €40 and €80.

Required documentation includes a valid passport with at least six months validity, four recent passport photographs, employment contracts confirming remote work arrangements and proof of accommodation such as lease agreements.

Following approval, visa holders must register locally with migration police, with some cases resulting in local identity cards for extended stays. The programme allows extensions in certain circumstances for up to five years through local registration processes.

Moldova joins neighbouring Romania, Hungary, Montenegro and Slovenia in offering digital nomad programmes, reflecting broader regional competition to attract remote workers. The country's low cost of living, developing co-working infrastructure in the capital Chișinău, and reliable internet connectivity form key selling points for the programme.

The programme addresses growing demand for European digital nomad options, particularly among professionals seeking alternatives to higher-cost destinations in Western Europe. Moldova's positioning as a "hidden gem" reflects efforts to attract visitors beyond traditional tourist markets.