Second Passport Options for Citizens of Moldova

1. What countries offer citizenship for Moldova passport holders by investment programs?


Currently, the following countries offer citizenship for Moldova passport holders through their respective investment programs:

1. Turkey: The Turkish Citizenship by Investment Program allows Moldovan citizens to obtain citizenship by investing in real estate, starting a business, or depositing funds in a Turkish bank.

2. Montenegro: The Montenegro Citizenship by Investment Program allows Moldovan citizens to obtain citizenship by investing in government-approved development projects.

3. Saint Kitts and Nevis: The Saint Kitts and Nevis Citizenship by Investment Program allows Moldovan citizens to obtain citizenship by making a charitable donation or investing in real estate.

4. Grenada: The Grenada Citizenship by Investment Program allows Moldovan citizens to obtain citizenship by making an economic contribution or investing in approved projects.

5. Dominica: The Dominica Citizenship by Investment Program allows Moldovan citizens to obtain citizenship by making a financial contribution to the country’s economy.

6. Antigua and Barbuda: The Antigua and Barbuda Citizenship by Investment Program allows Moldovan citizens to obtain citizenship through a donation or investment in an approved business or real estate project.

7. Bulgaria: The Bulgarian Immigrant Investor Program offers fast-tracked residency and potential citizenship for investors who purchase government bonds, invest in a local company, or contribute to the country’s economy through job creation.

8. Cyprus: The Cyprus Investment Programme grants Cypriot citizenship to foreign investors who make certain investments in the country’s economy, such as purchasing real estate, investing in business ventures, or depositing funds in local banks.

9. Malta: The Malta Individual Investor Programme offers Maltese citizenship for non-EU nationals who make a significant investment in the country’s economy through purchasing government bonds, investing in a Maltese company or property, or contributing to the National Development Fund.

10. Vanuatu: Vanuatu’s Citizenship-by-Investment program grants passport within 45 days for applicants who invest at least $130,000 in a government fund.

2. Can dual citizenship be obtained in Moldova?

No, Moldova does not currently allow dual citizenship. It requires individuals to renounce their previous citizenship if they wish to obtain Moldovan citizenship. However, there are some exceptions for individuals who obtained another citizenship by birth or marriage.

3. How long does it take to obtain a second passport in Moldova?


It typically takes around 4 months to obtain a second passport in Moldova. This includes the time it takes to gather all necessary documents, submit the application, and wait for processing and approval. However, the exact timeline can vary depending on individual circumstances and any delays in the application process.

4. Are there any language or residency requirements for obtaining a second passport in Moldova?


According to the Moldovan Citizenship Law, there are no language or residency requirements for obtaining a second passport in Moldova. However, applicants must be at least 18 years old and meet certain criteria, such as proving a connection to Moldova through ancestry or marriage, investing in the country’s economy, or making a significant contribution to the country. Additionally, applicants must renounce any other citizenships they hold if they acquire Moldovan citizenship through naturalization.

5. What is the cost of obtaining a second passport in Moldova?


The cost of obtaining a second passport in Moldova is currently €5,000 for the citizenship application fee, plus additional fees for legal and processing services. The total cost will vary depending on the specific services required.

6. Can spouses and children also obtain a second passport through citizenship by investment in Moldova?


Yes, spouses and children under the age of 29 can also obtain a second passport through citizenship by investment in Moldova. Spouses must be married for at least 5 years and children must be financially dependent on the investor. However, unmarried children over the age of 18 can only obtain citizenship by investment if they have a disability or are enrolled in higher education.

7. Does Moldova allow for visa-free travel to popular destinations with a second passport?


Yes, Moldova allows for visa-free travel to popular destinations with a second passport. Moldova citizens holding a second passport can travel visa-free to over 125 countries, including the European Union member states, Russia, and most countries in South and Central America. Some popular destinations that allow for visa-free travel with a second passport from Moldova include France, Germany, Italy, Spain, United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Japan, and Australia.

8. How does the taxation system work for citizens with two passports in Moldova?


The taxation system in Moldova applies to all citizens, regardless of their number of passports. This means that if a person holds two passports, they are still subject to the same tax laws and regulations as any other citizen.

In terms of income tax, Moldova has a flat rate of 12% for both residents and non-residents. This means that no matter how many passports a person holds, they will be taxed at the same rate on their income earned in Moldova.

For individuals who have dual citizenship with another country, they may also be subject to taxes on their worldwide income. However, this will depend on the tax laws and treaties between Moldova and the other country.

Additionally, citizens with two passports may be eligible for certain tax benefits or exemptions based on their residency status and double taxation treaties between countries. It is important for individuals to consult with a financial advisor or tax professional to understand their specific tax obligations in Moldova.

It should also be noted that having a second passport does not exempt a person from paying taxes in Moldova. All citizens are required to pay taxes based on their income level and other applicable factors as determined by the government. Failure to comply with tax laws can result in penalties and fines.

9. Are there any restrictions on the types of investments that can lead to citizenship in Moldova?


Yes, there are restrictions on the types of investments that can lead to citizenship in Moldova. According to the Moldovan Citizenship by Investment program, individuals can obtain citizenship through either a non-refundable investment or an entrepreneurial investment.

The non-refundable investment option requires a minimum contribution of €100,000 to the Public Investment Fund or €250,000 to the National Development and Social Fund.

The entrepreneurial investment option requires a minimum investment of €250,000 in an eligible business project in a priority development area. The project must also create at least 5 jobs and have a positive impact on the local economy.

Investments in real estate, government bonds, government securities, or any other type of financial instrument are not eligible for the citizenship by investment program in Moldova. Additionally, funds acquired through illegal activities cannot be used for the investment.

10. Can individuals apply for a second passport without renouncing their current citizenship status in Moldova?


No, individuals cannot apply for a second passport without renouncing their current citizenship status in Moldova. Moldova does not allow dual citizenship, and applicants must renounce all other citizenships in order to be eligible for Moldovan citizenship and a passport.

11. Are citizens of certain countries restricted from applying for a second passport in Moldova?


There are no restrictions for citizens of any country to apply for a second passport in Moldova. Any eligible individual can apply for a second citizenship through the Citizenship by Investment Program, regardless of their nationality.

12. Are there any additional benefits to holding a second passport from Moldova, such as business opportunities or access to education and healthcare systems?


Holding a second passport from Moldova could potentially bring along various benefits such as providing access to business opportunities in the European Union and other countries with which Moldova has visa-free travel agreements. This could be particularly beneficial for entrepreneurs and investors looking to expand their businesses internationally.

Additionally, having a Moldovan passport may also grant access to educational opportunities in the EU, as many universities and higher education institutions have partnerships and exchange programs with Moldovan universities. This can provide students with a wider range of academic options and potential career prospects.

In terms of healthcare, having a second passport from Moldova may also provide access to the country’s public healthcare system, allowing individuals to receive medical treatment at subsidized rates. However, it’s important to note that this benefit may vary depending on the specific laws and regulations of the country where the individual resides.

Furthermore, holding a second passport from Moldova could also offer protection against political instability or turmoil in your home country by providing an additional backup plan for relocation or travel if needed.

It’s always best to consult with a qualified immigration lawyer or specialist to fully understand all the potential benefits of holding a second passport from Moldova.

13. Is there an age limit for obtaining a second passport through citizenship by investment in Moldova?


Yes, applicants must be at least 18 years old to apply for citizenship through investment in Moldova.

14. How can I start the process of obtaining a second passport from Moldova?

To obtain a second passport from Moldova, you can follow these steps:

1. Determine your eligibility: In order to become a citizen of Moldova and obtain a second passport, you will need to meet certain eligibility criteria. This may include having some form of connection to the country, such as being of Moldovan descent or having lived in the country for a certain period of time.

2. Gather necessary documents: You will need to gather various documents to support your application for citizenship and a second passport. This may include your birth certificate, identity documents, proof of residence in Moldova, and any other relevant documentation.

3. Apply for citizenship: Once you have determined your eligibility and gathered all necessary documents, you can apply for citizenship through the Moldovan Ministry of Internal Affairs.

4. Wait for approval: Your application for citizenship and a second passport will be reviewed by the government of Moldova. This process can take several months.

5. Undergo background checks: As part of the application process, you may be required to undergo background checks to ensure that you meet all necessary requirements for citizenship and the issuance of a second passport.

6. Complete any additional requirements: Depending on your individual circumstances, there may be additional requirements that you must fulfill in order to obtain a second passport from Moldova. This could include language proficiency tests or other forms of testing.

7. Take an oath of allegiance: If your application is approved, you will need to take an oath of allegiance before receiving your new passport.

8. Obtain your new passport: Once all steps have been completed and your application has been approved, you will receive your new passport from the government of Moldova.

9. Renew as needed: As with any other passport, your Moldovan second passport will have an expiration date after which it will need to be renewed in order for it to remain valid.

15. Can naturalized citizens also apply for a second passport in Moldova?

Yes, naturalized citizens can also apply for a second passport in Moldova as long as they meet the eligibility requirements and follow the application process.

16. Is proof of financial stability required when applying for a residency and potential citizenship through an investor program in Moldova?

Yes, proof of financial stability is required when applying for residency and potential citizenship through an investor program in Moldova.

Applicants must demonstrate that they have a valid source of income and sufficient funds to support themselves and their dependents during their stay in Moldova. This can be shown through bank statements, investment portfolios, or other financial documents.

In addition, applicants may also be required to make an initial investment in the country as part of the investor program. The specific amount varies depending on the chosen program, but applicants must show that they have the necessary funds available to make the required investment.

Proof of financial stability is important because it shows that the applicant has the means to contribute to the country’s economy and support themselves and their family while residing in Moldova. It also helps to ensure that individuals do not become a burden on the state and are able to make a positive impact on the country’s development.

17. Are there any special regulations or requirements for individuals who have had previous legal issues seeking a second passport in Moldova?


There are currently no special regulations or requirements for individuals with previous legal issues seeking a second passport in Moldova. However, applicants must still meet all general eligibility requirements and provide necessary documents as outlined by the Moldovan government.

18. Does possessing dual citizenship of Moldova pose any complications when traveling between countries while holding passports from both countries?

Yes, possessing dual citizenship of Moldova may pose some complications when traveling between countries. This is because different countries have different rules and regulations regarding dual citizenship, and you may encounter some difficulties when entering or exiting a country with both passports. For example, some countries do not allow citizens to enter using a foreign passport, which means you may have to choose one passport to use for travel. Additionally, there may be additional border checks or paperwork required when using two passports, which can cause delays and potential complications at borders. It is important to research the specific regulations of each country you plan to travel to in order to avoid any issues.

19.Is it possible to transfer my current residency status to my new country if I obtain dual citizenship through an investor program in Moldova?

It is not possible to transfer your current residency status to a new country solely based on obtaining dual citizenship through an investor program in Moldova. Each country has its own requirements and processes for granting residency and citizenship, and they do not automatically recognize or accept the citizenship of another country. You would need to go through the respective immigration processes of the new country in order to obtain residency or citizenship there.

20.Can citizens of other countries living and working in Moldova also apply for a second passport?


Yes, citizens of other countries living and working in Moldova may also apply for a second passport. However, they will need to meet the same eligibility requirements and go through the same application process as any other applicant.