Introduction

Moldovan citizenship by descent is one of the most common legal ways to obtain a Moldovan passport if you have ancestors from the territory of modern-day Moldova or historical regions such as Bessarabia or Northern Bukovina.

Under Moldovan law, citizenship can be granted through recognition (citizenship by descent) to people who can prove family ties with individuals who were born in these territories.

This guide explains who qualifies for Moldovan citizenship by descent, what documents are required, how long the procedure takes, and how to apply.

What Is Moldovan Citizenship by Descent?

Moldovan citizenship by descent (also called citizenship by recognition) allows a person to obtain citizenship based on their family origin rather than residence or naturalization.

This legal mechanism restores citizenship rights to individuals whose ancestors were born on territories that now belong to Moldova but lost their citizenship due to historical events such as border changes or deportations.

In many cases, applicants can obtain citizenship without living permanently in Moldova.

Who Can Get Moldovan Citizenship by Descent?

Recognised citizens of the Republic of Moldova shall be individuals who wish to become citizens of the Republic of Moldova and namely:
a) those born in the territory of the Republic of Moldova or at least those, one of whose parents, or grandparents were born in the above-mentioned territory;
b) those who before 28 June 1940 resided in Basarabia, in the North Bucovina, Hertza Region, and the M.A.S.S.R., their descendants, if they have lawful and habitual residence in the Republic of Moldova;.

According to the administrative-territorial structure, until June 28, 1940, Bessarabia included the following districts and settlements:

Chernauti: Novoselitsa, Khotyn, Sekuren.
Hertsa, Northern Bukovina: Khlyboka, Hertsa, Storozhinets, Putyla, Vizhnitsa, Kitsman, Zastavna, Kelmentsy.
Odessa region: Bolgrad, Izmail, Kiliya, Tatarbunary, Artsyz, Tarutino, Belgorod-Dnestrovsky, Sarata, Reni.
MASSR: Ananiev, Balta, Kodyma, Krasnye Okny, Birzula (Kotovsk), Valya Hotsului, Cherna, Peschanaya.

Documents Required for Moldovan Citizenship by Descent

To apply for Moldova citizenship by ancestry, applicants must prepare several documents confirming identity, family ties and eligibility.

• valid passport or identity document
• civil status documents (birth, marriage, divorce certificates)
• documents proving family relationship with ancestors
• birth certificates of parents, grandparents or great-grandparents
• documents confirming residence in historical Moldovan territories
• police clearance certificate
• autobiography
• passport photographs

If documents are issued in another language, they must be translated into Romanian and officially certified.

Romanian Language and Constitution Exam

Applicants for Moldovan citizenship by descent must demonstrate basic knowledge of the Romanian language and the Constitution of the Republic of Moldova.

As part of the procedure, the applicant must pass an exam confirming:

• knowledge of the Romanian language
• understanding of the Constitution of the Republic of Moldova

Where to Apply for Moldovan Citizenship by Descent

Applications for Moldovan citizenship by descent are submitted to the Public Services Agency of Moldova.

The applicant must personally submit the application and required documents.

How Long Does It Take to Get Moldovan Citizenship by Descent?

The official processing time for citizenship applications based on recognition generally does not exceed six months after submission of all required documents.

In some cases, the review period may be extended due to the necessity of obtaining confirmations from foreign governmental authorities regarding the issuance or authenticity of certain documents.

Reasons an Application May Be Rejected

• submission of false information or forged documents
• concealing important facts
• serious criminal convictions
• failure to meet legal eligibility requirements

How a Lawyer Can Help With Moldovan Citizenship by Descent

Obtaining Moldovan citizenship by descent often requires extensive document searches and legal analysis of family history.

A lawyer can help you:

• determine eligibility
• identify the best legal basis for citizenship
• locate archival records
• restore missing civil records
• represent you before Moldovan authorities

If you need professional assistance with the procedure, you can learn more about our Moldovan citizenship legal services.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I obtain Moldovan citizenship by descent if my grandparents were born in Moldova?

Yes. If one of your parents, grandparents or great-grandparents was born in Moldova or lived in historical Moldovan territories, you may qualify for citizenship by descent.

Do I need to live in Moldova to obtain citizenship by descent?

No. In most cases, permanent residence in Moldova is not required for citizenship through recognition.

How long does the citizenship procedure take?

The official processing period usually does not exceed six months after all required documents are submitted.

Do I need to speak Romanian?

Yes. Applicants must demonstrate basic knowledge of the Romanian language and pass a citizenship exam.

Is there an exam on the Constitution of Moldova?

Yes. Applicants must show knowledge of the Constitution and the basic legal framework of the Republic of Moldova.

Can descendants of deported persons obtain citizenship?

Yes. People whose ancestors were deported or forced to leave Moldova after June 28, 1940 may apply for citizenship by descent.

Do I need archival documents?

Yes. Documents proving family connection with Moldovan ancestors are required to support the citizenship application.

Can documents issued abroad be used?

Yes, but they must be translated into Romanian and officially certified according to Moldovan legal requirements.

Do I need to apply in person?

Yes. The applicant must personally submit the citizenship application and supporting documents.

Can a lawyer help with the procedure?

Yes. Legal assistance can help locate documents, prepare the application and significantly increase the chances of approval.