Moldova to issue modernized passports and travel documents from 1 January 2026

Moldova will issue modernized passports and travel documents, which can be processed starting 1 January 2026. The new documents will offer enhanced security levels by integrating modern identification technologies to secure personal data and prevent forgery attempts. Government approved a draft law in this regard today.

The new documents will comply with the technical requirements outlined by the International Civil Aviation Organization and the European Union regulations, being equipped with advanced biometric elements and unified identification codes.

The documents can be easily verified at any border point due to the standardization of the format and inclusion of biometric data, such as the holder's facial image and fingerprints.

The presentation of information in three languages – Romanian, English and French, which facilitates recognition and use on an international level. Another benefit is that border verification will be faster due to the connection with electronic systems from other countries.

Minister of Internal Affairs Daniella Misail-Nichitin said that the project aims to increase the security level of travel documents to prevent counterfeiting and illicit use of identity documents and to streamline verification processes when crossing the border.


“The project introduces new specifications for the structure of the machine-readable zone codes and the implementation of additional requirements for global interoperability. The approval of the project will contribute to protecting the rights and freedoms of citizens in the context of safer international travel,” the minister said.


The documents will be issued for different periods, depending on the person's age or status, and can be valid for up to 10 years. They will be issued by the Public Services Agency for Moldovan citizens, stateless persons, refugees and beneficiaries of humanitarian protection by the General Inspectorate for Migration of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, while diplomatic and service documents will be issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.