Moldova
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Latest updates: The Safety and security tab was updated – terrorism.
Risk level(s)
Risk level(s)
Moldova - Exercise normal security precautions
There is no nationwide advisory in effect for Moldova. Exercise normal security precautions.
Transnistria - Avoid all travel
Global Affairs Canada advises against all travel to Transnistria, in the northeast of Moldova.
See Safety and security for more information.
Safety and security
Safety and security
Transnistria (see Advisory)
Transnistria is not under Moldovan government control and the security situation is unstable and unpredictable. There are frequent checkpoints. As there is no Canadian government office in Moldova, Canadian officials may not be in a position to provide consular assistance to Canadians in this region.
Crime
Petty crime such as pickpocketing and purse snatching occurs, particularly in the capital, Chişinău. Theft on trains and from hotel rooms is common. Violent crime can occur as well. Do not travel alone after dark.
Organized crime
Organized crime is widespread. Criminal groups are active in casinos and nightclubs and are involved in prostitution.
Terrorism
On November 21, 2016, the U.S. Department of State issued a Travel Alert for Europe, alerting U.S. citizens to the “heightened risk of terrorist attacks throughout Europe, particularly during the holiday season” and advising them to “exercise vigilance when attending large holiday events, visiting tourist sites, using public transportation, and frequenting places of worship, restaurants, hotels, etc.”
There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorist attacks have occurred in a number of European cities and there is a potential for other violent incidents, which could target areas frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. Continue to exercise normal security precautions.
Fraud & scams
Exercise caution when using automated banking machines (ABMs). Personal identification numbers have been stolen, and some travellers have reported unauthorized withdrawals from their accounts after using ABMs.
Beware of Internet fraud and scams, which can range from product purchases to Internet romances. Incidents of police requesting a bribe have been reported. While you may be delayed if you refuse to pay the bribe, there have been few reports of problems beyond inconvenience. Report any such incident to the Embassy of Canada to Romania in Bucharest.
See our Overseas Fraud page for more information on scams abroad.
Road travel
Roads are poorly maintained and rarely lit. Avoid driving after dark. Accidents are common and often involve drunk drivers. Be aware of farm vehicles, livestock and other hazards.
Be cautious when crossing streets, as drivers do not always give pedestrians the right of way.
Public transportation
Arrange to be met at the airport or use officially marked taxis. Do not share taxis with strangers. Establish a rate or a fixed price before starting the journey to avoid excessive fees.
Train and bus service is below Western standards. Trains are often unheated and prone to cancellation. Some travellers have reported theft on trains. Do not leave your compartment unattended, and ensure that the door is secured from the inside. Theft on buses has also been reported.
Air travel
The Government of Canada does not assess foreign domestic airlines’ compliance with international aviation safety standards. See Foreign domestic airlines for more information.
Demonstrations
Demonstrations occur and have the potential to suddenly turn violent. They can lead to significant disruptions to traffic and public transportation. There is an increased potential for such demonstrations due to recent political developments. Avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings, follow the instructions of local authorities and monitor local media.
Spiked food and drinks
Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as the items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.
General safety information
Exercise normal safety precautions. Ensure that your personal belongings and passport and other travel documents are secure at all times. Avoid showing signs of affluence and carrying large sums of cash.
Always carry adequate identification, as police are entitled to request it at any time. Keep a photocopy of your passport in case of loss or seizure.
Entry/exit requirements
Entry/exit requirements
It is the sole prerogative of every country or territory to determine who is allowed to enter or exit. Canadian consular officials cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet entry or exit requirements. The following information has been obtained from the Moldovan authorities and is subject to change at any time. The country- or territory-specific entry/exit requirements are provided on this page for information purposes only. While every effort is made to provide accurate information, information contained here is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, express or implied. The Government of Canada assumes no responsibility, and shall not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided. It is your responsibility to check with the Embassy of the Republic of Moldova for up-to-date information.
Official (special and diplomatic) passport holders must consult the Official Travel page, as they may be subject to different entry requirements.
Passport
Canadians must present a passport to visit Moldova, which must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry into that country. Prior to travelling, ask your transportation company about its requirements related to passport validity, which may be more stringent than the country's entry rules.
Temporary passport holders may be subject to different entry requirements. Check with diplomatic representatives for up-to-date information.
Visas
Tourist, business and student visas: Not required for stays up to 90 days per six-month period
Registration
Canadians who enter Moldova from the Transnistrian segment of the Moldovan-Ukraine border must register, within 72 hours of crossing into Moldova, at:
- Any branch of the Centre for State Information Resources’ “Registru” or
- Any branch of the Migration and Asylum Bureau (Ministry of the Interior).
Canadians who fail to legally register with the Republic of Moldova could face significant issues when trying to leave the country.
Children and travel
Children need special documentation to visit certain countries. See Children for more information.
Yellow fever
See Health to obtain information on this country’s vaccination requirements.
Health
Health
- Polio: Global Update - September 14, 2016 00:00 EDT
- Measles: Global Update - July 28, 2016 00:00 EDT
Vaccines
Routine Vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccines are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.
Vaccines to Consider
You may be at risk for these vaccine-preventable diseases while travelling in this country. Talk to your travel health provider about which ones are right for you.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a disease of the liver spread through contaminated food and water or contact with an infected person. All those travelling to regions with a risk of hepatitis A infection should get vaccinated.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Travellers who may be exposed (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) should get vaccinated.
Influenza
Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Get the flu shot.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease and is common in most parts of the world. Be sure your measles vaccination is up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.
Rabies
Rabies is a deadly illness spread to humans through a bite, scratch or lick from an infected animal. Vaccination should be considered for travellers going to areas where rabies exists and who have a high risk of exposure (i.e., close contact with animals, occupational risk, and children).
Yellow Fever Vaccination
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
| * It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements. | |
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Food/Water
Food and Water-borne Diseases
Travellers to any destination in the world can develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or food.
In some areas in Eastern Europe, food and water can also carry diseases like hepatitis A. Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in Eastern Europe. When in doubt, remember…boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Travellers' diarrhea
- Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
- Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.
- The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.
Insects
Insects and Illness
In some areas in Eastern Europe, certain insects carry and spread diseases like Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, Lyme disease, tick-borne encephalitis, and West Nile virus.
Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.
Malaria
Malaria
There is no risk of malaria in this country.
Animals
Animals and Illness
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, snakes, rodents, and bats. Certain infections found in Eastern Europe, like rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.
Person-to-Person
Person-to-Person Infections
Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, the flu and other illnesses.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through blood and bodily fluids; practise safer sex.
Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.
For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.
Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care provider.
High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.
Medical services and facilities
Medical services and facilities do not meet Canadian standards. Medical evacuation, which can be very expensive, may be necessary in the event of serious illness or injury.
Keep in Mind...
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.
Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.
Laws and culture
Laws & culture
You are subject to local laws. See Arrest and detention for more information.
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Moldova. However, Canadian officials may be limited in their ability to provide you with consular services if local authorities consider you a Moldovan citizen. You should always travel using your valid Canadian passport and present yourself as Canadian to foreign authorities at all times to minimize this risk. You may also need to carry and present a Moldovan passport for legal reasons, for example to enter and exit the country (see Entry/exit requirements to determine passport requirements). Citizenship is determined solely by national laws, and the decision to recognize dual citizenship rests completely with the country in which you are located when seeking consular assistance. See Travelling as a dual citizen for more information.
Illegal drugs
Moldovan authorities practice zero tolerance with respect to possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs, and penalties are strict. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.
Illegal activities
Photography of military installations or government buildings is prohibited and may result in a penalty.
Driving laws
You can drive with an International Driving Permit for up to 90 days after your arrival in the country. Residents must have a Moldovan driver’s licence.
Headlights must be used at all times when driving in the winter (November 1 to March 31). Winter tires are mandatory during winter months. You must carry a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a warning triangle in your car. The use of a cellular telephone while driving is prohibited, unless it is fitted with a hands-free device.
Import/export
Strict regulations are in place regarding the export of antiques, artwork and items of historical Moldovan significance. You must seek the approval from the Moldovan Department of Monuments for the export of such material. Proof of the approval may be requested at the point of departure. Heavy fines or charges may be imposed if you fail to provide proof of approval to export.
Money
The currency is the Moldovan lei (MDL).
The economy is primarily cash-based. Euros are accepted. Credit cards are increasingly being accepted. Automated banking machines dispensing local currency are available in Chişinău.
Natural disasters and climate
Natural disasters & climate
Moldova is located in an active seismic zone.
There is a risk of flooding and landslides.
Assistance
Assistance
Local services
Emergency services
In case of emergency, dial:
- police: 902
- medical assistance: 903
- firefighters: 901
Consular assistance
There is no resident Canadian government office in Moldova. You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information from the Embassy of Canada to Romania in Bucharest. For emergency consular assistance, please contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centrein Ottawa.
Bucharest - Embassy of Canada
The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. The Government of Canada takes the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provides credible and timely information in its Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad. In the event of a large-scale emergency, every effort will be made to provide assistance. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
See Large-scale emergencies abroad for more information.