How safe is Moldova for travelers? Find out how to avoid common issues such as travel scams, petty crime, pickpocketing and police corruption.
Photo © Getty Images/Ecaterina Soseva / EyeEm
The landlocked Eastern European country of Moldova is is sandwiched between Romania and Ukraine. The capital city, Chisinau, is where most travelers go when visiting the country. While this destination isn't too popular among visitors, Moldova is a fairly safe country to travel, however there are a few things you should know before visiting.
Travelers should mostly exercise common sense here: be on the lookout for petty crime such as pick-pocketing and scams, and be polite and cautious when police stop you.
Moldova broke away from the former USSR in 1991, and is a very young country considering it only gained independence in 1992. There are some obstacles that can make traveling here difficult. However, the country is relatively safe and foreigners rarely report incidents of violent crime.
Criminal activity in Moldova
Organized crime groups in Moldova exist and are responsible for human and drug trafficking. Reports indicate that more than 400,000 women have been trafficked from Moldova since the country gained independence in 1991.
The country is also a prime shipment point for drugs sent into Western Europe. While troubling, the activities of these groups don't normally spill over into violence that affects visitors.
Underground economic activity can be another major issue in Moldova. Though there is a small risk from transnational terrorism, violent attacks are infrequent. Public protests and demonstrations do occur, but stay relatively calm. One political protest in April 2009 did turn tragic, with the demonstration leading to looting, vandalism and numerous deaths and injuries of civilians and police.
Petty crime in Moldova
The biggest risk to travelers remains petty theft, such as pick pocketing. This generally occurs in the usual high-risk areas like crowded city streets in Chisinau and on buses and trains, especially international ones. Some travelers have also reported items missing from accommodations. And use common sense. Stay away from unlit parks at night and dark alleyways when muggings could occur.
Some visitors have also reported having their international packages rummaged through or stolen. Travelers should only use official taxis "yellow ones" so you don't get ripped off.
Be on the lookout for overcharging by taxi drivers and restaurant or bar staff. To avoid this issue, agree on taxi fare before getting in the car and ask to see menu prices in writing before ordering.
If you get unexpectedly sick or injured overseas, your medical bills could be expensive. Make sure you pack travel insurance, with 24/7 emergency assistance.
Common travel scams in Moldova
Unfortunately, ATM scams have hit the country, with travelers reporting unauthorized transactions, most likely from skimming devices and hidden cameras stealing pins. Some travelers advise never using an ATM on the street, to instead get money from the ATMs inside banks.
Moldovans seem to have made a hobby out of trying to get travelers' money. Tourism is scarce in this country, and many of its citizens assume foreigners are rich and ripe for the picking. Be wary of scams.
Moldovan gangs have been noted for a few infamous scams including credit card theft and computer hacking. One particular scam involved promising free X-rated pictures to people who downloaded certain software. More than 38,000 downloaded the criminal software and got stiffed out of more than of $2.74 million. So don't forget to use your head when downloading something in a foreign country.
Email scams are also common. An official-looking website may send you an email saying they're related to immigration and ask for personal information or payment for government forms. Don't give your money or credit card information to just anyone; be sure it's legitimate.
Potential harassment in Moldova
Some Moldovans dislike minorities and will verbally and sometimes physically harass them. Some travelers of other races have reported being denied entrance into certain clubs and restaurants others report harassment by police. The problem is common enough that the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe has developed legislation targeting hate crimes.
Police corruption in Moldova
Police do care when a crime occurs, but the lack of suitable equipment may prevent them from making an in-depth response to offenses. Bribery happens within the police force, with travelers reporting it's possible to pay your way out of a traffic violation, whether it's real or imagined by the responding officer.
Visitors say they have been stopped for small offenses like jaywalking and been forced to pay a fine. Some travelers also report corrupt border police. You are advised to carry identification with you at all times, just in case you're stopped by the police.
Sadly, police officers might also take advantage of travelers, especially those who look foreign. It's common for them to ask to see your passport; you can show it to them, but try to avoid handing it over. It might be expensive for you to get it back.
Border guards in Transnistria may demand money when you exit the territory. Learning a few Russian phrases will help you with the locals in this area, as police will be less likely to demand bribes if you speak the tongue of their former motherland.
If you're stopped by the police, you can ask to see their identity card or badge. Record all their information, such as name, badge number and title, so you can inform your embassy.
Be mindful of your manners in Moldova
The local customs don't have a lot of quirks, it's mostly about being polite. Don't talk politics, as this is still a dicey issue in Moldova and Transnistria. Also, treat women with respect. Chivalry is important, and you'll be seen as a rude foreigner if you don't open doors for women. Do not say mean or sexually suggestive things about Moldovan women locals will be very angry.
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39 Comments
Good advice, Picture is not Moldova. LOL Motomisk Pa John Canada
I am trying to move to Moldova with my 12 year old son-Any advice is appreciated
Hey I was born in moldova and I lived there for 7 years before I moved out, I can say that people there are closed minded, they follow a lot of weird traditions, they are friendly tho, everyone knows everyone, it's hard to make money, everything is old, there is a lot of free space to go camp, people do that alot and thats about it if you want to know more things just e-mail stefan1995ftw@live.com ill try to help
This is a lazy mo...f...kin nation. Any contractor you call - will end up screwing you as the price is never what was initially agreed. And if there is work done, they always leave shit behind like it's your business clean after them.
It really feels like the whole nation has got no system. Everything seems to be chaotic and nonfunctional, the rules don't exist, the infrastructure sucks and the "blaming on each other" is the best they can do - 99% corrupt nation -> No hope - ?
Is it good or bad for foreigner to work in Moldovan please be honest
went at the weekend. why? no idea? need my head testing.
Flew in to the international Chisinau ( pronounced chicken shed) Airport.
first thing I did was ask wizzi air for ticket back home.
Please take me home. Get me out of this Moldovan Shit Hole , I want to go home.
No tickets available until my scheduled flight on Monday night. Nightmare.
Typical communist architecture and '' infrastructure''. Shabby thrown together 4,5,6,7 storey grey apartment blocks everywhere. Many structures started and not finished. Roads rough. Pavements terrible. Hired a bike. Do not hire a bike unless you have a death wish.No way out of the city. No road markings. Traffic lights in the main ignored. I don't think there is a central rail station therefore no rail roads in the country. Nothing of interest to see. No Tourist Information buro. No tourists. There is absolutely nothing to do. Do nt bring your golf clubs if you are a golfer.
However.. the positives as I see it.
It is poor but lack of wealth is not necessarily a problem, morally or culturally.
The people were ok. They go about their business and get on with their lives. I did not feel threaten although I was warned to be careful by a Romainian chap I met in a bar. They are a tattoo free race which is nice to see. Not one in sight. No body modification here. Therefore, as it occurred to me, I imagine no gender changes. Gotta go west for bollock alteration. Try wealthy London for that waste of NHS dosh. Poverty is therefore not all bad. There is absolutely no evidence of a sex industry or prostitution. Its clean like the people. Such high moral standards you will not find in the despicable west.
The prices of food and beer are cheap. You can dine out and well quench your thirst on local Chisinau draught for 20 quid = 20 euro = nearly soon to be 20 USD.
A whole 6 kg water melon will set you back 0.40 p. Nice 4 or 5 star hotel 40-50 euros.
The bustling large open air market was interesting. That's it.
My advice after you read UK Gov advice is read my advice ... do nt go. there is fuck all to do or see
I thank you.
Bullshit. Moldova is a very safe, peaceful country, with amazing villages, coolest food, greatest wine. - Once you find a common language with Moldovans, you will discover a highly motivated, inspirarional, clear and open-minded people with a good humor and wise vision. If Moldovans would not have left their country, Moldova'd be a Switzerland.
I plam=n to c=visit Moldova in 2017 when I will be touring eastern europe on my motorcycle. I will be travelling alone and as a seasoned travelller of 56yrs I look forward to it. I have been to Romania, Ukraine, Turkey, Albania, Georgia and Armenia. Will I enjoy visiting the country?
Many thanks
Gary
I am planning to relocate to Transnistria with my wife (who was born there) and our Labrador (who is a service dog). As a black man married to a woman of this country, how safe would it be for me living there. I am a senior citizen who wants to retire there.
Some Moldovans dislike minorities and will verbally and sometimes physically harass them. Some travellers of other races have reported being denied entrance into certain clubs and restaurants others report harassment by police. The problem is common enough that the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe has developed legislation targeting hate crimes.
How safe would Moldova be for my 15 year old daughter to visit for the summer?
I was questioned and photographed by a police officer because i was smoking outside the building less than 10 meters off the wall lol, yes I don't look Moldovan or European and this is why the police officer started hus game with me.. he took400 Lei not to take me to Police Station!! Well I absolutely feel sorry for the country but I will never go again! It is very boring, old, broken, and not safe
ManDarinas said 5 months ago
"Bullshit. Moldova is a very safe, peaceful country, with amazing villages, coolest food, greatest wine. - Once you find a common language with Moldovans, you will discover a highly motivated, inspirarional, clear and open-minded people with a good humor and wise vision. If Moldovans would not have left their country, Moldova'd be a Switzerland."
Reply: Thanks for the advice! Let's go to Switzerland
I visited moldova 2 times in last one year and people from moldova are very friendly and supportive even though i dont speak their language. I notice people and youth like visiters and they wants to help. From my experience i can surely tell you, its a safe place to walk without any discrimtion or fear of being exploited. Did i mentioned i came from india :)
Robert: I would not recommend retiring to Transnistria, especially if you require a service dog--which implies you may require some physical assistance. the nicest walkway in the nicest part of the nicest city is still a tripping hazard with potential for tree branches at eye level... and Transnistria lacks most of the better parts of Moldovan "modernization."
you may be thinking that moving to Transnistria is smart because of the low cost of living; however, you will sacrifice many basic standards if you move there. Winter is harsh and insulation in non-modernized homes can be straw-filled walls. Single-sheet asbestos roofing slabs are common and sewer systems can be poor in the nicest of buildings. I live in a very nice apartment in central Chisinau, many facets of the building lack the simplest European or American safety or hygiene (sewer) expectations. And Chisinau is decades--if not a full century--ahead of Transnistria.
Medical services and standards are painfully lacking. There are private-pay hospitals that will meet Western medical expectations, but the administrative staff do not follow Western patient privacy or rights standards (I was emailed my coworker's blood test results and other laughable calamities). The level of service you will get in Transnistria will not be as good. Another coworker of mine that sees a standard local doctor showed me an ointment he was prescribed for an infection--the western world had debunked it decades ago as noneffective and linked to increased cases of skin cancer to the "treated areas." Healthcare is poor here and you should be prepared to argue if you are in need of legit services.
This is a lovely country. It is beautiful and the people are more honest than the warnings of this article would have you believe. The police and ministries suffer from corruption and generations of authoritarian rule that did not value their position as public-"servants." But, again, the people are wonderful--with some bad apples who run obvious scams... not unlike every other country in the world
Kim, my response may come too late--but I would say your 15-year-old daughter should not visit by herself or with an unchaperoned group. She won't run the risk of being the subject of the next "TAKEN" movie: There ARE student tour programs for groups of students from EU and US, so if part of such program--by all means, this is a great educational opportunity and experience. If alone or as part of a small, unchaperoned group (or not visiting responsible family)--the risks are mainly boredom, the unexpected shenanigans of bored teenagers, and the lack of ability to identify a scam.
I have a dream to visit Moldova, I saw tens of documentaries of that country. People say it is boring, mismanaged and corrupt. But I found it culturally very matured. I can just define the country as "The Melting pot of Romanian and Russian traditions". Myself being from a diverse country India, where we have similar issues with the police and thugs alike, I don't think Indians would find that country any different, except enjoying a new culture, language, country and of course wine. Lots of love from India.
Kishinev is heavily Russian speaking place. I thought it would be more Romanian when I went but I herd Russian everywhere. The police car is marked in Romanian, but who speaks it there? I am just wondering maybe 2 weeks were not enough. Traveling is getting expensive, I don't think I would return as I don't speak the languages. I can tell that Moldovans mind their own business but also they did not like the fact that I speak English; how's that my fault?
The people that I did speak told me, what I understood, they want to leave. It felt like I was going one way and they are going the other; towards Romania. They are nice but there is a feeling of sadness going on that I didn't understand. The services lacked also. I went to a mall; that is not a real mall it was booths lined up, row by row. The people are approachable, that is if you speak Russian. All I got was: "English, no" at the airport as I was leaving.
Hello from New Zealand,have read all the posts here and are more interested than before to come on our motorcycle and see your country not to interested in cities we enjoy the back country any tips,routes we should take a look at would be appreciated thanks.
i have visited moldova , and i can say that i will never go to eastern europe again ! first they don t understand english , so if you don t speak russian you are doomed , there is nothing to do there , all young people have already left to western europe . you are always harassed by agressive gypsies asking for money , but the worst , the worst is that i have been attacked for being non white by some skinheads , and when i went to the police station they told me that maybe i was looking for troubles , and they tried to rip me off 100 euros ! plus the food is awful and the women are not that beautiful ! i wich i had never go to this place !
I have been there 5 times. The country is calm, people have treated me with respect for the most part. Seems pretty average like everywhere you go, no be loud obnoxious or attract attention to yourself, and you'll be fine. Be respectful, and mindful. Language can be a barrier if you don't speak Romanian or Russian. People do seem to try to help for the most part. Taxi service is a nightmare. No uber there...
The food can be good, and the wine as well. The monasteries are very nice. Renting a car is ok, the driving can be quite a challenge, you have to be very focus, and drive as careful you can, while still trying to emulate the locals. Renting a flat for your stay is ok, had a few surprises here and there. For the most part I have enjoy my trips there, even had some dental work done there.
So i live in moldova for very long time before i move to uk, i can say lot's of good things about my country and people but the main thing which is not said here to not get in truble with the boys from the streets cause they are every time very dangerous, i lived in the main hood were lot's of boys was sale drugs without being stresed or anything else, yee it's said to not walk on the night time but you need to know there you going there are hoods like albişoara or otovaska which is very dangerous even in dayli time they can rober you or even knife if they don't like something so the main thing to not get in truble you need always to have with you alchool or money but the main thing to have a hood friend which would show you the really good live of moldavian poor people which will show you the really life of moldavian people how they are sad and happy at the same time how they can be agresive and peaceful at the same time but if you are guest everybody will wanna to give you some things that they have done or something what have been done by their parents or brothers,
I've been to Moldova on several occasions over the past decade and found it for the most part to be a nice and friendly country. Chisinau for the most part is fairly modernized. However the rest of the country can be fairly behind the times depending on where you go. The roads can be in very poor condition in rural areas. As for the language barrier you can find a fair amount of people that speak English in Chisinau. It's hit or miss in the rest of the country. My observations of the languages is that most are bilingual in Romanian and Russian. However if you go to Transnistria or the Gazuga regions (Tiraspol or Comrat) Russian is mostly spoken.
Be careful when going to Transnistria. Getting into the region requires a separate visa for the region (obtained at the entry point) and a customs fee if driving a vehicle registered outside of Moldova. Tiraspol is the capital of the region and gets some tourism. If you're staying for less than 24 hours then the paper given to you at the checkpoint will suffice. However if staying more than 24 hours then you have to register with the local police or a local registration office. There's a monetary penalty if you don't do this and they wont let you leave if you don't pay. However the fee is only $5 USD. It might be more now. Also avoid the police as much as you can. A lot of times they will pull you over or set up traffic checkpoints and charge you with bogus offenses. And they will rob you blind, especially if you have foreign currency so hide any hard cash you have. There is an international ATM machine down the road from the Tank Monument in Tiraspol where you can withdraw US dollars or Russian rubles. I've used this machine with no problems. The bank it belongs to can also exchange foreign currency for Transnistrian rubles. The exchange rate is fairly close to what it costs to get Moldovan lei. But the Transnistrian currency is only valid within Transnistria. Some businesses may also accept Moldovan lei, US dollars, Russian rubles and Euro.
You have to stay a little more alert for scams. Some businesses (especially strip clubs--don't go to Plush in Chisinau--this place is famous for it) will try to fleece you out of as much money as possible but for the most part I haven't had any problems when visiting Moldova and Transnistria. I would happily visit there again.
Hi
I am a visitor who lives in the UK Last month Aug 2019 have visited Chisinau for the first time in my life for a business trip, to be honest, the country is so beautiful, people are friendly, food mama mia and for me, it was safe to move around walking from where I stay to Stefan Cel Mare the famous road even late after 6 pm. People in business are great, understanding, but expected to see them more flexible when we talk to have their products to be exported for the first time to the United Kingdom. I love it and will be back again with my friends.
I am from India and my wife is teaching in an International school in Chisinau.It has been two months that we’ve been living here we find it a very friendly and a safe place to live.People are friendly and helpful specially the younger generation.Food is great.Moldovans are proud of there fruits,vegetables,dairy and meat products.....and why not as they produce the finest in the world. I would have no hesitation in recommending Moldova as a safe and enjoyable Wine destination ......Add to your bucket list if you are wine connoisseur.God bless Moldova!!
I was born in Moldova in a village..not in the capital..and I can say that contrary to the foreigners impressions the country is really worth visiting and has something authentic about it. It is not as fake as, let's say, western Europe..I know what Im talking about, I lived in UK for few years and even if people smile and look friendly, they are cold inside. At least Moldovans express what they really think.
Our service and medical sectors are much better than in other countries..at least doctors don't prescribe paracetamol and ibuprofen for all illnesses and you don't have to wait for an appointment for weeks or even months! In Moldova you have outstanding services for depilation (sugaring-some countries haven't even heard about it!) amazing massage, haircut and salon, nails, dental care and great gym and classes that are clean! I can't say enough words about how good our food and wine are! I don't mean only the prepared food..but the ingredients itself are tasty! Fruit and veg have rich aromas and for some reason I always feel healthier and more energised at home. Our land is aboundant and nature is green and makes you feel peaceful.
I agree about corruption and that there are many narrow-minded people and that's the main reason I left the country, not poverty.. I was never ashamed that my country is poorer than other countries...it could be really rich..as somebody said here, better than Swizerland..but just some uneducated and dumb people are bringing it down (mainly politicians). I have many things to say in defence to my country because I truly love it and I think it deserves the best.
I've been living in Moldova for 19 years, both in the countryside and in the capital Chisinau. I've never had any troubles whatsoever, and I did go out a lot there and got drunk during the night. For a foreigner I would advice to take some precautions when considering to visit Moldova. Here are a few tips for a potential tourist:
1. Get a friend who can speak Romanian/Russian. The people in Moldova are very friendly but most of them don't speak English so it'd be hard to communicate with them.
2. It's perfectly safe to get an Airbnb or stay at hostel in Chisinau. If you are planning to go with a group of people you could rent a big apartment for very little money. Try to find a host that speaks English.
3. It's very convenient and safe to travel by taxis run by "Yandex Taxi". Make sure that you get the app before you arrive. Going from one corner of Chisinau to another would cost you 2-3 euro. Don't rely on public transport if you are not a local, you will get very confused!
4. Avoid the contact with gypsies.
5. If you are not white watch out, people might approach you and ask you stupid questions like "where are you from" or "what are you doing here". This might escalate into a conflict although it's very unlikely to happen. If you have a friend with you who speaks Romanian/Russian then you're safe.
6. Avoid drunk people at bars/clubs. Although most of the places have security it's always the best to avoid the uneducated people who are looking for some trouble.
7. Do not leave you belongings unattended. They might get stolen.
8. Always have some cash on you. Some of the low-key places might not accept a payment by card.
9. If you want to drive in Chisinau be extra-cautions! People drive recklessly and don't always follow the rules! It will take you a day or two to get used to driving in Moldova.
10. The nightlife in Chisinau might not necessarily be what you expected. There are many clubs and bars but you have to be a local to know the proper places. Not all the girls/guys speak English so it is going to be very hard to communicate. If you are a guy and you see a girl with another guy DON'T go and talk to her, this might get you into a lot of troubles :D.
11. If you plan to visit Moldova do it in the summer when it's sunny and beautiful outside.
12. Always carry some form of id with you.
All in all I think Moldova is a country very safe visiting, you will not get into any sorts of troubles unless you are really looking for some. As some other people pointed out before, you might find Moldova boring if you don't plan your activities accordingly. Make sure that you know what you wanna do during your stay in Moldova, you can't really "go with the flow" there. If you have a Moldovan friend with you then you're guaranteed to have a good time.
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact me ;)
Anything about the weather?
Am going to visit Moldova in May and staying till the end of June
Am visiting a girl I learn to know on-line
Am planning to travel with autocar Moldova who takes my from Belgium bruxelles to the capital of Moldova
How is the weather in spring time ?
Is it cold or warm ?
Greetings from Belgium
to Kris from Belgium ,
May and June are just ok , warm weather with sunny days, rains are occasionally and short . Wether it's wonderful in period of the year.
But be careful , You don't know that girl in person , a lot of girls have a materialist mindset in this Country.
Don't get too many things with you . All things really needed should fit in your backpack, and always watch it.
Choose your clothes properly , better with inside pockets and some cash in it .
Exchange some of Your Euros in Lei ( local currency) at the Bank Only .
You have to look like a tuff person who knows where he goes.
Have 2 reliable phones with chargers with Extended Networks(Roaming) .
Leave your Rolex home, get a normal watch.
Study the map before you go there.
Don't give your Passport to anyone , show your Driver License in case you get stopped by local authorities .
If you don't have any friends with you who can speak Russian or Romanian better you better don't go out in the night time .
And for the first time visiting your Moldovan Friend known from Ethernet it's better to start with a simple date during the day , a cup of coffee, no need to stay there 2 months for the first time ,people are great but like Newton said : I can calculate the motion of heavenly bodies, but not the madness of people.
Don't be Naive!!!!
Study people before to Trust !
Wish you good luck and a safe trip !
Greetings from Chicago ,Illinois
Respectfully,
Igor Mahu
Can anyone tell me how to get to know a good person (young lady) and go to visit her in Chisinau in early June and eventually proposing marriage? I come from Greece and I am 72 years old but feeling young. I speak English - French - Italian. Any useful advice will be appreciated.
Answer to the old greek.
You will be for sure in big problems in Moldova, since you don't look European. My advice, find a fat greek lady and stay in Greece.
I am an American who moved to Moldova two and a half years ago. My wife and I live in a village home where we grow our own crops, raise our own chickens, pick our own fruit, gather our own nuts and berries, and make our own wine. It's a simple life filled with simple pleasures. I love it.
I do not agree at all. Moldova is a very safe, peaceful country, with amazing villages, good food and wine culture.
I live in Perpignan (ex-France before ) that is much much more dangerous that Chisinau .
If you suit poorly and don' t look other people , you can survive here in perpignan , like I do since 2003 ,
without being attacked too hardly .
But insulted by drug addicts beggers , yes .
4 bicycles stolen to me .
Have a car low low price and it is not stolen . If your car ok , kick it .
Don' t walk often , in Perpignan . Don't speak to neighbours , they will make you problems . Just hello .
I don't live in a suburb , but , at 300 meters of the center of the center , and most of time , I am happy to be back home like a refugee . Thanks God 4 no problem !! In indonesia I feel more secure , yes !
I want to travel to Moldova but I would be happy if I will find a friend there before flying there...anyone who is there can give me his contact or email so that we can talk more before moving there..also I would like to know is it easy to enter Romania from Moldova
Hi there, i am south african and wish to go to Moldova with some supplies and assist ukrainian refugees. I thought to re t an apartment somewhere for a month or so, and provide accomodation, a bath and rest to refugees passing through. Any suggestions from Moldova locals
Rehards
Rene
I'm an American who is thinking about visiting Transnistria. I speak fluent Russian and am looking for a guide. Would I be safe and does anyone here know somebody? Feel free to email me
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am munkaila from Africa i want to go to Moldova with work permits .please is it easy to get a job there and am i save to go there?
If you are thinking about going to Moldova, I'd suggest that you avoid it.
Step 1. Border control.
Communication with the border control staff was very difficult, not because of a language barrier, but just because they didn't care to answer our questions.
- After they collected the passports, they asked me to fill out a standard form (name, address, phone, etc.). After I filled it out, they said that I might be refused entry and did not explain why, but hinted that it was due to my citizenship (no, I'm not Russian, but even if I were, there are no laws that ban all citizens of any country from entering Moldova without adequate grounds);
- There were no more questions to me afterwards, and after half an hour, without my presence, they brought my passport back with a refusal stamp and documents (one of them included a notification that there would be an additional check, and it clearly stated that I had to sign it beforehand, i.e. before the second check, which never happened). They did not respond to my questions about the reason for refusal, either just remaining silent or answering something like "you can read about it later in the internet."
- Most flagrantly of all, they put different reasons for refusal in the documents they gave us and in my passport - and again, they refused to comment on this.
Just to note: I haven't been to Moldova before and haven't had any violations of laws anywhere else, and I had stamps from about 15 countries in my passport.
There was no obvious suggestion that they wanted a bribe, but I also can't be sure that wasn't the reason for all this.
Step 2. Appealing
By law, it's possible to appeal that decision... in a court located in Moldova. When I wrote to the Border Police with a detailed description of the situation, they answered in a week without any word - only attaching a standard file where they claimed that the letter should be signed with an electronic signature... again, a Moldovan one.
I'm not complaining now - actually, I'm quite happy I didn't end up going to this country, seeing how the rule of law functions there. I'd avoid dealing with it entirely.