Life in Moldova

Finding a place to live in Moldova is a process that does not involve a lot of bureaucracy, but has its own specifics. You do not need a residence permit, income statement, or guarantors, as in some European countries. Rent can be found quickly, and in many cases directly, without intermediaries. However, to avoid losing money and nerves, it is worth knowing where to look, what documents you may need, and what a standard “Moldovan deal” looks like.

Where to look for housing and how does it work?

Most housing is available in Chisinau - from “economy” apartments in old houses to studios in new buildings with modern renovations. In the regions (Balti, Comrat, Ungheni), the choice is smaller, but the prices are much lower. In villages, it is often possible to rent a separate house for the same amount as renting a room in a city.

Most landlords do not use agencies - they often publish ads themselves or simply pass the apartment from hand to hand. It is therefore not surprising that the main platforms are:

• 999.md is the most popular classifieds site in Moldova. The interface is simple, but many ads are not updated - be sure to check the date.
• Facebook groups are a real treasure trove of live options. Landlords often respond faster there, and conditions can be negotiated flexibly. There are even separate groups of Ukrainians who share tips and options.

Tip: some platforms keep landlords' contacts hidden until you register - create an account right away to avoid wasting time.

What documents are required?

Formally, to rent in Moldova, it is enough to have a passport with you. In most cases, you won't even be asked for a residence permit, visa, or other confirmation. If the housing is rented “on a friendly basis”, sometimes the contract is not signed at all. However, if you plan to apply for documents (for example, temporary protection or a residence permit), it is better to look for an apartment with the possibility of registration at the address of residence.

In more formal cases, the owner may ask for

• a copy of your passport or ID card;
• advance payment for the first month + deposit;
• a phone number for communication;
• address of previous residence (not necessarily with confirmation).

Some landlords (especially in new buildings) draw up an agreement through an agency or a notary - it is more expensive, but also more reliable.

What to look for?

The real estate market in Moldova is not very regulated, so care is key. Advertisements often look attractive, but the apartment may have technical or legal problems in reality.

Before making a deal, pay attention to:

1. The existence of a contract. Without it, it will be difficult to prove the right to live or return the deposit.

2. The state of the heating. Autonomous heating is more profitable. In old houses with centralized heating, you sometimes have to pay even without living there.

3. Availability of the Internet. It often needs to be connected separately.

4. Possibility of registration. If you need a residence permit, ask about it immediately.

5. What is included in the price. Utilities, internet, repairs - everything should be specified separately.

A typical situation: you found an apartment on Facebook for 250 €. On the spot, it turns out that this amount does not include heating, internet, cleaning the entrance and garbage collection. As a result, you end up paying +80 € on top. So always check what is included.

Negotiations, reviews and reservations

In Moldova, it is normal to negotiate directly - through messages in messengers or by phone. But:

1) Do not transfer a deposit without a contract or viewing the apartment.

2) Ask for a photo or video review if you are not yet in the country.

3) Do not agree to pay in cryptocurrency, Western Union or unverified methods.

If you like the apartment, but you are not yet there, it is better to rent a temporary apartment through Airbnb or Booking for the first time, and then negotiate with the owner of the “long-term” housing on the spot.

💡 If you want to check the terms of the contract or get advice before signing it, the Visit Ukraine team can help:

• online consultation with a lawyer
• checking the lease agreement;
• recommendations on neighborhoods and conditions.

If you have just moved to Moldova, the question of food comes right after housing. The good news is that the food here is of high quality, fresh produce is affordable, and the choice of stores allows you to find both budget and eco-friendly options. However, there are details that you should know in advance to avoid unnecessary expenses and disappointment.

Where do you buy groceries?

In cities, supermarkets are the most convenient. They are everywhere, have a large selection, regular promotions, and accept cards. Linella has the most branches, Kaufland remains popular, and Green Hills is a bit more expensive, where you can often find imported goods. Conventional grocery stores near the house are more expensive, but sometimes save the day in the evening when the big chains are closed.

But for fruits, vegetables, meat and dairy, most locals go to the market. It is cheaper and fresher, and there is a chance to find homemade cheeses, honey, eggs, or spiralized meats. There is the Central Market in Chisinau and Piața Centrală in Balti. There are also small farm shops or Instagram stores that deliver “from the field” directly to your home.

Another convenient option is delivery. Glovo, iFood, and Straus operate in large cities. Some chains also have their own online stores with food delivery, such as Linella or Kaufland. If you live without a car or with a small child, this is a real lifesaver.

What are the food prices?

In general, Moldova is a country with fairly affordable prices for basic products. Milk, bread, vegetables, cereals are much cheaper than in most EU countries. Meat, fish, and imports are more expensive, especially if you focus on familiar Ukrainian or European brands.

As of 2026:

• a loaf of bread - from 0.6 to 1.2 €.
• a liter of milk - about €1-1.4
• a dozen eggs - €1.8-2.2
• chicken - ~ 3.5-4.5 € per kilogram
• cottage cheese - 4-6 € per kilogram
• potatoes, carrots - 0.6-1 €
• apples, pears - 1-1.5 €.

Prices depend heavily on the season. What costs €0.5 in June can double or even triple in price in winter. That's why locals often buy “for the winter” - vegetables, berries, and herbs are still commonly canned or frozen.

Imported snacks, juices, and chocolate are more expensive. For example, ordinary bar chocolate costs 2-3 €, and juice in a package costs 1.5-2.5 €.

How much does the family spend?

The food budget depends heavily on the lifestyle. If you cook at home, avoid fast food, and buy food on promotions, you can get by quite economically. But even with a “normal” level of spending, the amounts look like this

• one person - ~150-200 €/month
• a couple - ~250-350 €
• a family with a child - ~400-500 €.

This includes groceries from supermarkets and markets, but without frequent trips to cafes, restaurants, or deliveries.

What about baby food?

In large supermarkets, you can find the main brands: Nestlé, Hipp, Humana - both purees and mixtures. Their prices are slightly lower than in EU countries:

• baby formula - from 7 to 12 € per package
• diapers (Pampers, Huggies) - ~8-12 € for 30-40 pcs.

Of course, not all products are always available in small stores, so sometimes it is more profitable to order online or take them in reserve.

Are there any Ukrainian products?

Yes, there are. In Chisinau, in chain supermarkets, you can find products familiar to Ukrainians: buckwheat, dumplings, canned Veres, pickles, condensed milk, Chumak mayonnaise, and lard. But these are imports, and they cost accordingly. Buckwheat, for example, costs from 2-2.5 €/kg.

Sometimes Ukrainian products are sold in small shops near the market - just ask.

By the way: in supermarkets, you can pay with a card almost everywhere. But at the market, it's cash, and sellers don't always have change. It's better to have small bills.

Money is the first issue that newcomers face: is it possible to pay with a card from Ukraine? Do I need to change cash? And how to withdraw money without a fee? And most importantly, is it possible to open an account in a Moldovan bank if you have not moved “permanently”?

What is the currency in Moldova and how to avoid losing money at the exchange?

The official currency is the Moldovan leu (MDL). In Moldova, shops do not accept euros, dollars, or hryvnias - only lei. Therefore, exchange is the first thing you will have to do upon arrival.

It is convenient to change currency in:

• exchange offices at train stations and markets (higher rates, but be careful: check the bills);
• banks - officially, safer, but a little less profitable;
• ATMs (if you withdraw from a Ukrainian card, Revolut, Monobank or others with low fees are better).

Tip: don't change everything at once. Many things can be paid for online - it's better to leave some money on the card.

Can I pay with a Ukrainian card?

Yes, almost everywhere. Cashless payments work well in Moldova: there are terminals in supermarkets, pharmacies, cafes, and gas stations. Apple Pay / Google Pay is also supported. But:

- sometimes in small shops or on the market you can only pay in cash;

- banks may charge a conversion fee (especially PrivatBank and Oschad);

- online payment is not always possible with Ukrainian cards (for example, not all mobile operators accept foreign cards).

If you plan to stay for a long time, it is more profitable to open a local account.

How to open a bank account in Moldova?

The procedure is simple, especially in private banks. Many Ukrainians open accounts immediately upon arrival to have a local card that can be used to receive transfers, pay online, or withdraw cash without conversion.

The most convenient banks for foreigners are:

1. MAIB (Moldova Agroindbank)

2. Victoriabank

3. Moldindconbank

4. Mobiasbanca (OTP Group)

To open an account, you usually need:

• passport or ID card;
• phone number (Moldovan) - required for banking;
• sometimes - proof of residence (verbal address or lease agreement is sufficient);
• for a foreign currency account, you may be asked to prove your income or reasons for stay (but rarely).

The card is issued in 1-3 days on average. The service fee is symbolic (from 0 to 1 €/month).

Is there online banking?

Yes, and it is quite convenient. Local banks have mobile applications, but you need a Moldovan phone number to confirm transactions.

Banking options:

• transfers within Moldova (no fees);
• payment of utility bills, cell phone bills, taxes;
• checking your balance and transactions;
• online currency exchange.

You can also keep an account in euros/dollars, but most everyday payments are made in lei.

Revolut, Monobank, Wise - does it work?

Yes, and it is often more convenient than opening a local account, especially at first. Ukrainian “neobanks” allow you to:

- withdraw cash with lower fees;

- pay in stores in lei;

- have a multi-currency account;

- control expenses in the app.

Revolut, Wise, Monobank are actively used by Ukrainians in Moldova.

But remember: some online services in Moldova do not accept foreign cards (for example, mobile communications or public services).

The first days in a new country are always about finding Wi-Fi. But in Moldova, everything is simple: mobile communications are cheap, the quality of coverage is good, the Internet is stable, and connecting takes a matter of minutes. The only thing you need to know is how to choose an operator, avoid unnecessary costs, and understand where the best connection is.

Mobile communication: operators, tariffs, connections

The choice in Moldova is small but sufficient. There are several major operators that cover almost the entire territory of the country, including rural areas:

• Orange Moldova is the most popular, with the best 4G coverage.
• Moldcell has a stable network and favorable prepaid packages.
• Unite (from Moldtelecom) is a state-owned company, with cheaper tariffs but worse coverage in some areas.

All operators have websites in English/Russian and sales offices in major cities.

How much does it cost to connect?

Prices are a pleasant surprise after the EU:

• a starter package (SIM card) - from 1 to 3 €.
• basic tariff with the Internet - from 3 to 5 €/month
• a package of 50-100 GB + calls within Moldova - 5-7 €/month
• international minutes (including to Ukraine) - often included or activated separately (~1 €/month)

If you use a Ukrainian SIM card, roaming in Moldova works, but the Internet will be more expensive and calls will be limited. It's better to buy a local SIM card immediately upon arrival.

How to connect?

No documents are required for a prepaid subscription: just come to the salon, choose a tariff, get a card, and that's it. You can activate it yourself or with the help of a store employee.

For a Postpaid contract, you need to provide a passport and a local phone number or address. But in most cases, a subscription is a more convenient option.

Home internet: whether and how to connect

Internet in Moldova is stable, fast, and inexpensive. Most rented apartments already have a connection. But if you are organizing the connection yourself, there are a few things you should know.

Main providers:

• StarNet - the most popular, good support
• Orange - also offers home internet
• Moldtelecom / Unite - state-owned, cheaper

The contract is concluded for 6 or 12 months. If you rent an apartment, find out if you already have a connection: you often don't need to pay for new internet.

Moving to a new country with a child is always a little more than just luggage and documents. You need to find a place where your child will be safe, able to study, communicate, and adapt. In Moldova, despite its small territory, the education system is quite flexible and open to Ukrainians, even those without refugee status.

Kindergartens in Moldova: accessibility, cost, realities

Moldova has a single state system of preschool education, which is complemented by private institutions. If you live in the country, you can apply to the nearest municipal kindergarten. It is possible to enroll a child, but in large cities there are waiting lists - especially for ages 1-3.

The main thing is:

• age for enrollment - from 1.5 to 6 years
• the institution is open full time (usually from 7:30 to 17:00)
• meals - compulsory, for an additional fee
• adaptation - gradual, often without hard “tests”

Cost:

• public kindergartens - free of charge, only meals are paid (approximately 25-40 €/month)
• private kindergartens - from 100 to 300 €/month, depending on the area, conditions, programs
• mini-gardens/home groups - an alternative with smaller groups (80-150 €)

In Chisinau, there are often electronic queues through local portals - check the city administration website. In other regions - application in person or by phone.

Documents for enrollment:

• child's birth certificate
• passport or ID of one of the parents
• medical certificate with vaccinations (the form is approved by the Ministry of Health of Moldova, but Ukrainian ones are also accepted)
• address of residence (actual - not necessarily official)

If you do not have medical documents yet, you can be examined at a local clinic or by a pediatrician at your place of residence. Parents of Ukrainian children report that the staff in kindergartens often meet them halfway and help with the bureaucracy.

Schools in Moldova: how to enroll a child, what you need to know

Moldova has a 12-year education system:

Grades 1-4 - primary school

Grades 5-9 - gymnasium

10-12 grades - lyceum

Children of school age (6 years and older) from Ukraine are entitled to free education in public schools under the same conditions as Moldovan citizens. Since 2022, the state authorities have officially confirmed that Ukrainian children are accepted without discrimination, even without a residence permit.

Types of schools:

1. State schools (lyceums, gymnasiums) - standard program, free of charge

2. Private - with an extended program, foreign languages, smaller classes

3. Schools with bilingual education - there are in Chisinau, Balti, southern regions

4. International schools - for long-term study in English (from 400 €/month)

For enrollment you need

• birth certificate
• medical certificate (form from a pediatrician)
• previous report card / document from a Ukrainian school (optional)
• address of residence
• a copy of the parents' document (passport or ID)

If you don't have any documents, you may be admitted by age or after a short interview. In high school, you may be asked for your language level, but this is not an obstacle to enrollment.

What about the language of instruction?

The official language of education is Romanian. However, there is still a network of Russian-language schools in Moldova, and in some institutions children learn two languages at once. Children from Ukraine have the opportunity to

• choose a school with a language they understand
• learn Romanian as an additional language in a simplified form
• switch to Romanian-language education gradually

Some schools have adaptation or integration classes with a lighter workload and assistance for newcomers.

What else do parents need to know?

• Grades in Moldova - 10-point system, 5 - satisfactory, 10 - excellent
• School uniforms are not mandatory, but some lyceums have a dress code
• Textbooks - state textbooks are free, sometimes you need to buy notebooks or materials
• Clubs and sections - available at schools, usually paid: 5-15 €/month

Additionally: online education and support

Moldova supports Ukrainian educational initiatives. If a child is studying a Ukrainian program online, this does not exclude the right to register in a Moldovan school.

In addition:

- there are projects with free Romanian courses for children

- children can receive psychological support at school or through humanitarian programs

- volunteer organizations organize language clubs, excursions, and integration events

Health issues are always at the forefront of your mind, especially when you are in a new country. Moldova has a basic public healthcare system, which foreigners have access to. But there are nuances: bureaucracy, language barriers, and the need for insurance.

How is healthcare organized in Moldova?

The healthcare system in Moldova is public, but with elements of co-financing. This means that most services are available through public clinics - but not all are free.

Every citizen (or legal resident) must be registered with the National Health Insurance Company (CNAM). Without this, only emergency care is free.

If you come from Ukraine:

- you are entitled to emergency care

- but you need insurance or registration with the CNAM to see a family doctor or a specialized doctor.

Practice: how to actually visit a doctor?

If you are not registered in the Moldovan healthcare system (i.e. you do not pay contributions to CNAM), then

• if necessary, you can visit a private clinic - for a fee
• or have your own international health insurance that covers treatment abroad
• or you can take out temporary insurance in Moldova (through CNAM or commercial companies)

In large cities (Chisinau, Balti), there are many private medical centers that work quickly, with high-quality diagnostics and admission without queues. But a doctor's appointment costs from 20 to 50 €, and tests are extra.

Health insurance: what do you need to know?

For Ukrainians, the most convenient option is international health insurance, which

• works from the first day of stay
• does not require a Moldovan residence permit or local number
• allows you to visit any doctor or clinic - without bureaucracy

Such insurance can be arranged online in 5 minutes before departure.

What does international health insurance cover?

Standard plans from Visit Ukraine include

• outpatient treatment (visit to a doctor)
• diagnostics, tests, basic examinations
• medications prescribed by a doctor
• emergency care
• inpatient treatment
• insurance against COVID-19 and seasonal diseases
• the opportunity to see a doctor at any time during your stay abroad

How to choose a clinic?

In Moldova, there are

• public clinics (cheap or free of charge, but queues, language barrier, difficult to make an appointment)
• private clinics: MedPark, Terramed, Repromed, Sancos, GalaxiaMed - work quickly, with translation, often with online registration

In a private clinic, you can go through a full check-up, get tested, and get advice from a specialized specialist. But without insurance, it can be expensive.

What about pharmacies?

Pharmacies in Moldova are everywhere, open late, some around the clock. Most basic medicines (painkillers, antipyretics, antihistamines) are sold without a prescription.

Prescription drugs can be obtained after consulting a doctor. If you have a Ukrainian prescription, it is sometimes accepted, but it is better to have a local one.

Features that you should know about

1. Most doctors speak Romanian, but in cities you can often find those who speak Russian or English

2. Public hospitals may lack specialists or equipment - it's no secret

3. Medical documents (extracts, prescriptions) are in Moldovan. If necessary, ask for a translation

How Visit Ukraine can help:

• Instant online medical insurance for any period of stay in Moldova
• Consultations with a lawyer on how to get access to medical services

Living in a new country is not just about finding an apartment, filling out paperwork, or opening an account. How comfortable you will feel often depends on everyday trifles: whether you will understand what the cashier said in the store, whether you can walk your dog without a leash, whether you will receive fines for improperly disposed of garbage.

Language: can you do without Romanian?

Romanian is the official language of Moldova. All state documentation, education in most schools and universities, and business communication are conducted in this language. If you are planning a long-term stay, paperwork, work in official institutions, or teaching children, knowledge of Romanian will become important and gradually necessary for full integration.

Where to learn Romanian:

• free courses for refugees (organized by NGOs, volunteer centers, municipalities)
• online resources: Duolingo, Memrise
• courses at libraries or cultural centers (in Chisinau and Balti)

Even the basic level of “hello-thank you-how much does it cost” already helps to feel much better in everyday life - at the market, in the hospital or in the public utility service.

Common fines and household pitfalls

At first glance, Moldova seems very “similar to Ukraine”. However, there are things that you should not ignore here, otherwise you may get into trouble or lose money.

The most common fines are:

1. Dumping garbage in the wrong place - up to 1500 MDL

2. Parking “wherever it is convenient” - 300-600 MDL, and in the city center, cars can be evacuated

3. Crossing the road in the wrong place - up to 300 MDL

4. Riding in transport without a ticket - a fine is issued on the spot, often up to 500 MDL

5. Failure to comply with the rules for handling animals (without a muzzle, leash, etc.) - a fine or warning

In addition, during a state of emergency or mobilization, additional restrictions may apply, such as loud music at night or public events without a permit. Check with your local authorities or trusted sources for these rules.

Leisure, community and integration

Life is not just about documents. Moldova can be unexpectedly hospitable if you know where to look for support and inspiration. There are dozens of initiatives for Ukrainians in major cities.

What is available for free or for a minimal fee:

• open-air movies (in Chisinau, regularly in summer)
• exhibitions and concerts in municipal cultural centers
• language and art clubs, circles for children - at libraries or NGOs
• Meetings for Ukrainians: exchange of experience, psychological counseling, assistance with adaptation

Where to look for support:

• Facebook groups: Ukrainians in Moldova, Help for Ukrainians in Chisinau
• Volunteer centers at Ukrainian communities and churches
• Telegram chats of local initiatives and assistance

Tip: Even if you feel comfortable in your “circle,” don't isolate yourself. Even one language group or hobby club can give you a sense of belonging to a new life.

How Visit Ukraine helps to adapt in Moldova

To make life and adaptation in a new country less stressful, our team offers

• online health insurance for visits to clinics, pharmacies, and ambulances
• legal advice - on housing, contracts, legal issues
• purchase of tickets for buses, trains, airplanes - from anywhere in the world
• information support on documents, social assistance, legalization