United States Visa RequirementsFor Moldova passport holders
Moldovan passport holders require a US visa to visit the United States. Moldova is not part of the US Visa Waiver Program, so a non-immigrant visa must be obtained in advance from a US embassy or consulate.
Moldova passport holders require a visa to enter United States.
Apply for a US B-1/B-2 visa through the US Embassy in Chisinau. Complete the DS-160 form online, pay the application fee (currently $185 USD for most non-immigrant visas), and schedule an interview appointment. Allow several weeks to several months for the full process depending on appointment availability.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Moldova to United States: What You Need to Know
Moldova is not included in the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP), which means Moldovan citizens cannot travel to the United States under ESTA. A B-1 (business) or B-2 (tourism) visa must be applied for through the US Embassy in Chisinau or another US diplomatic post.
The visa application involves completing Form DS-160, paying the non-refundable visa application fee, and attending an in-person interview at the US Embassy. Wait times for interview appointments at the Chisinau embassy can vary considerably depending on demand and seasonal factors.
Moldova's EU candidate status and Schengen visa-free access do not affect US visa requirements. Each country determines its own visa policy independently. Moldovans who are also Romanian citizens (EU passport holders) are also not automatically included in the VWP.
Practical Tips
Apply well in advance of your intended travel date. Appointment slots at the Chisinau US Embassy can be limited. Bring all required documents to the interview: financial proof, ties to Moldova (employment, property, family), purpose of travel, and accommodation details. Dress professionally for the interview. Having a strong travel history and stable employment significantly improves approval prospects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Moldovan citizens need a visa to visit the United States?
Yes. Moldova is not part of the US Visa Waiver Program. Moldovan citizens must apply for a non-immigrant visa (typically B-1/B-2) at the US Embassy before travelling to the US.
Do Moldovan citizens need a visa to visit the United States?
Yes. Moldova is not part of the US Visa Waiver Program. Moldovan citizens must apply for a non-immigrant visa (typically B-1/B-2) at the US Embassy before travelling to the US.
How much does a US visa cost for Moldovan applicants?
The non-immigrant visa application fee (MRV fee) is $185 USD for most visa categories including B-1/B-2 tourist/business visas. This fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome.
How much does a US visa cost for Moldovan applicants?
The non-immigrant visa application fee (MRV fee) is $185 USD for most visa categories including B-1/B-2 tourist/business visas. This fee is non-refundable regardless of the outcome.
How long does it take to get a US visa from Moldova?
Processing times vary. The interview appointment wait time at the US Embassy in Chisinau can range from a few weeks to several months. Apply as early as possible, ideally 3-6 months before your planned travel.
How long does it take to get a US visa from Moldova?
Processing times vary. The interview appointment wait time at the US Embassy in Chisinau can range from a few weeks to several months. Apply as early as possible, ideally 3-6 months before your planned travel.
Does holding a Schengen or Romanian passport help with US visa applications?
Having Schengen visa-free access or a Romanian (EU) passport does not directly help with a US visa application. The US evaluates each application independently. However, a strong travel history to Schengen countries may support your application by demonstrating ties to Moldova and travel intent.
Does holding a Schengen or Romanian passport help with US visa applications?
Having Schengen visa-free access or a Romanian (EU) passport does not directly help with a US visa application. The US evaluates each application independently. However, a strong travel history to Schengen countries may support your application by demonstrating ties to Moldova and travel intent.