The Eastern Europe is becoming a destination among the Indian tourists who seek exotic culture, picturesque destinations and economical experiences in Europe. Moldova is one of the new destinations. The question people ask as demand increases is, Is Moldova a member of Schengen Area? And otherwise, what shall that visas?

Whether you are planning a trip and you are wondering about the Moldova visa, this guide will explain how Moldova is a Schengen state, visa regulations and what Indian travelers must know before they make their trip booking.

Is Moldova a Member of the Schengen Area?

Not, Moldova is not a part of the Schengen Area. A valid Schengen visa does not necessarily permit one to enter Moldova and a Moldovan visa does not permit one to travel to Schengen countries. Nevertheless, Moldova has visitor-friendly visa policies that are easy to use by short-term tourists.

The reason why Moldavia is commonly mixed with Schengen nations.

Moldova is an Eastern European country and has its cultural and historical connections with the neighboring countries. Most of the travelers visit Eastern Europe countries as a single trip and therefore, it is assumed that Moldova is governed by the Schengen. Though a non-member of the Schengen, Moldova has visa facilitation agreements and lenient entry policies that are advantageous to the tourists and business travelers.

Indian Citizens: Do They Require a Visa to Moldova?

Yes, the Indian passport holders usually require visa to enter Moldova. The nature is based on the purpose and the time period; tourism, business, or visiting family. Some exceptions exist:

• Indians who hold a valid multiple-entry Schengen visa can receive short time stays in Moldova under certain conditions.

• Visa-free entry can be provided provided that some of the criteria related to residency or visa were followed.

The rules may vary; it is always necessary to verify the existing rules prior to travel.

Moldova Visa types offered to Indians.

Indian tourists will be able to apply to other visa types:

• Tourist Visa - to visit, sightseeing and cultural tourism, which normally involves short term visits.

• Business Visa- to conduct meetings, conferences, or to carry out professional activities.

• Transit Visa - the one that is issued to traveling people who are going through Moldova on their way to another country.

Both types of visas have certain documents and qualification criteria.

Requirements of Moldova Visa: What to prepare before doing it.

Knowing the needs will eliminate delays or rejections. Although precise documents depend on the type of visa, the majority of applicants will require:

• Valid passport (Minimum of 6 months of validity)

• copy of visa application form filled in.

• Recent passport size photographs.

• Itinerary and flight tickets.

• Accommodation or invitation letter.

• Travel insurance on the stay.

• Evidence of adequate financial capability.

It will increase the chances of approval significantly when the right and complete documents are submitted.

Is a Schengen Visa to Moldova Admitted?

Moldova is not part of Schengen, however, some travelers with a valid multiple-entry Schengen visa are allowed to enter on short stays. Conditions include:

• Schengen visa should be valid and utilized.

• Stay duration is limited.

• It is subject to approval of the border authority.

This option assists the travelers who are going to Moldova and Schengen countries but not all.

Moldova E- visa and Embassy Visa Preferences.

Moldova provides e-visa as well as embassy visa to prospective travelers.

E‑Visa

• Applied online

• Faster processing

• can be used when visiting only temporarily.

Embassy Visa

• Necessary to stay longer or be used to a particular purpose.

• Submission involves face-to-face or appointment-based.

The e-visa is also more popular among most of the short-term travellers.

Turnaround Time and Visa Processing.

• Processing Time: 510 working days, on average.

• validity: It depends on the type of visa and the purpose of travelling.

• Length of stay: The length is normally not exceeding 90 days in a span of 180 days.

Applications should be made earlier so that there is room to be flexible in case of request of extra documents.

Why Moldova Warrants a Visit although not Schengen.

Moldova has beautiful old towns, vineyards, monasteries, and traditional Eastern European culture and this at a fraction of the price of Western Europe. It is less busy and cheaper thus allowing the travelers to have a relaxed immersive experience. It is not a member of Schengen, and this fact ensures a reduced number of tourists and a more local atmosphere.

Mistakes that are usually made when applying to Moldova Visa.

• On the assumption of the Schengen visa being the guarantee of entry.

• Applying too late

• Filing of incomplete documentation.

• Travel date and bookings mismatch.

Planning is useful in facilitating a hassle-free visa process.

Concentrated: Prepare Smart when going to Clear Moldova Visa Regulations.

Although, Moldova does not belong to the Schengen Area, the visa procedure is simple and any Indian traveler can easily accommodate it. It is important to learn the distinction between the Schengen access and independent entry regulations prior to traveling. With the appropriate documents and time, it is possible to visit this European gem that is hidden and see its beauties thanks to the latest requirements of Moldova visa application.

In case you feel like having some other part of Europe other than the tourist trail, include Moldavia in your list of places to visit, you only need to plan on your visa the way you plan on the itinerary.