Moldova's Embassy in Minsk Suspends Citizenship Applications Amidst Sweeping Legislative Changes

Embassy Announces Indefinite Suspension

The Embassy of Moldova in Minsk has announced the suspension of Moldovan citizenship application reception, effective December 23, 2025. This measure will be in place for an indefinite period and is a direct consequence of recent changes to the country's national citizenship legislation. The diplomatic mission stated that consular services related to citizenship will resume at a later date, with public notification provided in advance.

New Citizenship Law Takes Effect

The suspension is directly linked to the enactment of Law No. 253 from July 10, 2025, concerning Moldovan citizenship, and the simultaneous repeal of Law No. 1024 from June 2, 2000. These legislative amendments are set to come into force on December 24, 2025. The Moldovan authorities initiated these major changes to the citizenship acquisition process with the stated goals of improving transparency, strengthening verification procedures, and eliminating fraud within the system.

Key Reforms in Citizenship Acquisition

The new legislation introduces several stringent requirements for individuals seeking Moldovan citizenship:

• Elimination of Residence-Based Recognition: A previous provision that allowed for citizenship recognition based on continuous residence in Moldova from June 23, 1990, is no longer valid. This change particularly impacts residents of Transnistria.
• Mandatory Language and Constitution Exams: All applicants, with limited exceptions for minors, the elderly, and those with disabilities, will now be required to pass an exam demonstrating proficiency in the Romanian language and knowledge of basic constitutional principles.
• In-Person Application Submission: Applications must be submitted in person at either the Public Services Agency in Moldova or at diplomatic missions and consular offices abroad. The use of proxies or intermediaries is no longer permitted, a measure aimed at preventing corruption. The entire application process will be recorded and archived.
• Enhanced Verification and Security Checks: Documents submitted for citizenship will undergo thorough checks, including potential interviews and requests for additional documentation. Stricter formal requirements, such as the need for an apostille on foreign documents, have also been implemented. The Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Intelligence and Security Service will conduct more comprehensive background checks on applicants.
• Simplified Categories and Increased Processing Time: Citizenship can now be obtained under five specific categories: by birth, recognition, adoption, restoration, or naturalization. The period for considering applications has been extended from 20 days to 6 months.

Context of Reforms

These reforms follow reports from the Ministry of Internal Affairs indicating that approximately 100 cases of citizenship were granted based on forged documents in the past three years. Additionally, a 'passport' scandal in 2024 highlighted issues of illegal citizenship issuance. The new law also outlines conditions for the loss of Moldovan citizenship, including revocation by the president in cases of fraudulent acquisition, involvement with illegal armed formations, or links to terrorist groups.