Securing State Integrity: Moldova's Citizenship Reforms
Individuals born in the territory of the Republic of Moldova, who are not registered with the authorities and do not hold citizenship, will be able to initiate the procedure for recognition as a citizen by submitting an application.
Previously, this action occurred following self-notification by the competent authorities. This change follows the Government's positive endorsement of the amendment to the Citizenship Law of the Republic of Moldova.
At the same time, according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Justice, the categories of individuals who fall under the reasons for refusal of citizenship recognition will be expanded.
"The geopolitical situation in the region has generated a large number of requests for acquiring the citizenship of the Republic of Moldova. We aim to prevent situations where false information is presented or citizenship is granted to individuals who may affect state security," said Minister of Justice Veronica Mihailov-Moraru.
Another adjustment concerns the time available to the authorised bodies for examining applications for granting, reacquiring, and recognizing citizenship. This period can be extended by 6 months.
The Republic of Moldova must comply with a series of international obligations. Thus, the fact that an applicant, during the examination period of their citizenship application, is serving or has to serve a custodial criminal sentence, has unexpired criminal records, or is under criminal investigation, will no longer be a ground for refusal if there is a risk of recognizing them as stateless.
According to the authorities, these changes will eliminate legislative vulnerabilities and risks to state security and public order.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
