Moldavien

Översikt

Despite Moldova being among the least developed economies in Europe, it is broadly a safe destination. Formerly a part of Romania, it was incorporated in the Soviet Union after the Second World War and gained independence from the USSR in 1991. Since then, it has oscillated between the EU and Russia, including a period of considerable uncertainty from 2009 and 2012 when multiple elections failed to return a president. However, in recent years, the population has voted in favour of gradual moves towards EU membership, despite the opposition of Russia and its Moldovan allies. Moscow’s covert involvement in the conflict that began in Ukraine in 2014 prompted concern that Moldova could face comparable levels of instability in the near-future, not least as thousands of Russian soldiers continue to be deployed on the breakaway territory of Trans-Dniester, a notorious haven for smugglers and organised crime syndicates. These concerns has increased markedly since the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Hälsa, sjukdomar och vaccination

Travellers are advised to consult a travel health specialist or general practitioner (GP) to obtain the latest information with regards to what vaccines are recommended about 4-8 weeks prior to departing for Moldova. Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before your trip. The following vaccinations are recommended: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis, polio and influenza.

Although rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in Moldova, it is not a major risk to most travellers. Vaccine is recommended only for travellers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas, people who will be working with or around animals, people who are taking long trips or moving to remote areas in the country.

Moldova has a concentrated HIV epidemic among people who inject drugs, men who have sex with men and sex workers. An estimated 15.000 people live with HIV/AIDS.

Travellers should be aware of the risks associated with travellers’ ailments such as diarrhoea. It is advisable to bring anti-diarrhoea medication and oral rehydration salts to prevent dehydration.

Drinking tap water in Moldova is not recommended due to the high presence of chemicals and other pollutants. Bottled water should be consumed in preference to tap water. Caution should also be applied to ice in drinks, which is often produced from tap water.

Tuberculosis is endemic and a health concern in Moldova.

Moldova has an adequate supply of hospitals and doctors although standards are generally lower than in Western Europe. Many doctors and other health specialists only speak Romanian or Russian and finding English speakers can prove difficult.

Many doctors will request immediate payment for treatment in Moldova, regardless of your insurance. Serious injury may necessitate evacuation from the country and it is therefore advisable to take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance prior to travel.

Moldovan pharmacies are not generally well supplied and the sale of fraudulent medicines has been reported. If requiring medication, travellers are advised to take sufficient supplies for the duration of the stay. In this instance it is also advisable to take a signed letter from a medical physician indicating all medical conditions and prescribed treatment, including generic medication names.

Pass

All visitors to Moldova must have a passport that is valid for at least three months beyond the date of departure.

It is advisable to carry a photocopy of your passport in the case of being stopped and challenged by the authorities.

Visum

Moldova has visa exemption agreements with over 100 countries. Nationals from EU countries, USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, Russia, Brazil among others can visit for a duration of up to 90 days. Specific requirements are in place for longer stays and depend upon nationality.

Difficulties will likely arise if entering Moldova from Ukraine via Trans-Dniester. The crossing is unlikely to be officially recognised meaning that authorities will be unclear as to how long the visitor has been in the country. It is advised to enter Moldova from one of the officially recognised border points if travelling from Ukraine.