Moldova's Prime Minister allows for introducing visas for citizens of Russia, Belarus and China

Prime minister allows for visa regime as part of European integration

Moldova's Prime Minister Vasile Tofan has suggested that Chisinau may introduce visas for citizens of Russia, Belarus and China, since this is required by the European integration process. This was reported by Gazeta.Ru citing RIA Novosti. The journalists' question was prompted by the report assessing candidate countries for EU membership, which Moldova received on November 4: it notes that candidate states must bring their visa policy in line with European standards.

No timeline given

Tofan emphasized that Moldova intends to continue its European path. He could not name specific timelines, but noted that if EU standards require introducing visas, then Chisinau needs to make decisions that allow progress in the European integration process. Thus, for now this is only a possibility being considered, not an adopted decision — the introduction of visas remains merely an option contingent on the course of EU accession negotiations.

Context of restrictions

Gazeta.Ru also recalls two earlier reports: in February, the Moldovan authorities extended the ban on flights by airlines from 20 countries, including Russia, and earlier the issuance of visas to citizens of Afghanistan in the country was explained as a mistake. Both facts show that Moldova's visa and border policy has already changed in recent months, however, the publications do not indicate any direct link between these decisions and the possible introduction of visas for citizens of Russia, Belarus and China.