Moldova citizenship by investment has become an increasingly popular option for global citizens looking to expand their mobility. As one of the most affordable citizenship by investment programs in Europe, it offers visa-free access to 121 destinations. The program requires applicants to make a one-time contribution to Moldova’s Public Investment Fund or to invest in real estate. Key benefits include visa-free travel within the EU’s Schengen Area, the ability to live and work in Moldova, and a relatively quick processing time of 3-4 months. This article will provide an overview of the options, requirements, and benefits of obtaining Moldova citizenship through investment.
Overview of moldova citizenship by investment program
The Moldova Citizenship-by-Investment (MCBI) program was launched by the Moldovan government in 2018. It allows foreign investors to obtain citizenship in exchange for contributions to the state. There are two options:
1. Make a one-time contribution of EUR 100,000 to Moldova’s Public Investment Fund. At least EUR 5 million must be accumulated in the fund before applications are approved.
2. Invest EUR 250,000 in Moldovan real estate projects. You must hold the investment for at least 5 years.
The program has relatively simple requirements compared to other CBI programs. Key requirements include:
– Being over 18 years of age
– Passing background checks
– Proving the legal source of funds
– Making the required investment
– Paying application fees
– Providing biometric data
The government promises decision-making within 3 months and citizenship within 6 months. The entire family, including dependent children and parents, can be included in an application.
Benefits of moldova citizenship
The key benefits of obtaining citizenship through the Moldova CBI program include:
– **Visa-free access to 121 destinations** – This includes EU’s Schengen Area, as well as Russia and Turkey.
– **Citizenship is hereditary** – Future generations can inherit Moldovan citizenship by descent.
– **No requirement to live in Moldova** – Investors retain flexibility to live anywhere.
– **Ability to work and study in EU** – Moldovan citizens can live, work, and study anywhere in the EU.
– **Fast processing time** – Decision in 3 months, passport in 6 months.
– **Strong passport power** – Moldovan passport is ranked 46th in the world.
– **Tax benefits** – No taxes on worldwide income, inheritance, or capital gains.
Compared to other CBI programs, Moldova offers one of the most cost-effective routes to EU citizenship and benefits.
application process for moldova citizenship by investment
The application process for obtaining Moldova citizenship by investment consists of several key steps:
1. Choose a qualified agent to prepare and submit the application.
2. Provide required documents, including passport, birth/marriage certificates, police certificates, proof of funds, etc.
3. Make the qualifying investment of $100,000 contribution or $250,000 real estate investment.
4. Submit biometrics at a Moldovan embassy/consulate.
5. Pass background, criminal, and security checks.
6. Receive approval decision within 90 days of application submission.
7. Investors pay any remaining fees.
8. Oath taking ceremony is arranged within 6 months.
9. Moldovan passport is issued to the investor and dependents.
The process takes approximately 3-4 months from submission of application to approval. Obtaining the passport can take another 1-2 months after approval. Hiring an authorized agent to prepare the strongest application is key.
costs of obtaining moldova citizenship
There are various costs involved in obtaining Moldova citizenship through investment:
– **Qualifying investment** – $100,000 contribution or $250,000 real estate investment
– **Due diligence fees** – $5,000 per main applicant
– **Application fees** – $5,000 for main applicant, $2,500 per dependent
– **Passport fees** – $300 per applicant
– **Other fees** – Translation and legalization costs
– **Agent/lawyer fees** – An additional $15,000-20,000
In total, for a family of 4, the cost is estimated at $155,000 for the contribution option or $305,000 for the real estate option. This makes it one of the most affordable CBI programs compared to the Caribbean programs.
The low investment threshold combined with strong benefits like visa-free EU access make the Moldova CBI program very attractive and cost-effective for investors seeking EU mobility.
The Moldova Citizenship by Investment program provides a relatively fast and affordable route to EU citizenship. For a total investment of only $100,000-300,000, investors can obtain a Moldovan passport within 6 months and visa-free access to 121 global destinations. With easy processing and a high approval rate, it offers one of the most convenient and cost-efficient CBI programs available today.