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Moldovan Leu (MDL)
Chișinău
GMT+2 (EET) / GMT+3 (EEST)
Moldova is a dynamic Eastern European nation that has rapidly transformed into a strategic tech and service hub. As an EU candidate country, it offers a unique bridge between Western and Eastern markets. With a heavy focus on digitalization and one of the most competitive tax regimes for the IT sector in the world, Moldova is a premier destination for high-efficiency global operations.
Landlocked between Romania to the west and Ukraine to the north, east, and south, Moldova is located at a crossroads of European trade routes. The landscape is characterized by rolling hills, fertile plains, and vast vineyards. The capital, Chișinău, is the country's primary economic engine and home to a thriving international community.
Moldova enjoys a moderate continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are typically cold and occasionally snowy, while summers are warm and sunny—perfect for the country's world-renowned wine production. Average summer temperatures hover around 25–28°C (77–82°F).
Moldovan culture is deeply rooted in hospitality and a strong sense of community. Known for its rich folk traditions and world-class wine heritage, the society is open, resilient, and highly adaptable. In business, Moldovans value directness, professionalism, and personal connection, often blending formal Western standards with warm local hospitality.
Romanian is the official language. However, Moldova is exceptionally multilingual: Russian is widely used in daily life and business, and English is becoming the primary language for the tech and international service sectors. Gagauz and Ukrainian are also spoken in specific regions, reflecting the country's diverse cultural fabric.
Moldova applies a flat Personal Income Tax (PIT) rate of 12%, making it highly transparent for both residents and international employers.
The social security and health insurance system is structured to share the responsibility between the employer and the employee.
| Types of Contribution | Contribution rate % (by employer) | Contribution rate % (by employee) |
|---|---|---|
| Social Security (CNAS) | 24% | - |
| Health Insurance (CNAM) | - | 9% |
| Total | 24% | 9% |
| Occasion | Date in 2026 |
|---|---|
| New Year's Day | January 1 |
| Orthodox Christmas | January 7–8 |
| International Women's Day | March 8 |
| Orthodox Easter | April 12–13 |
| Easter of Blajini (Day of Rejoicing) | April 20 |
| International Labor Day | May 1 |
| Victory Day and Europe Day | May 9 |
| International Children's Day | June 1 |
| Independence Day | August 27 |
| National Language Day | August 31 |
| Christmas Day (New Style) | December 25 |
Salaries are paid monthly in Moldovan Leu (MDL). As of January 1, 2026, the national minimum wage has been increased to 6,300 MDL, while the average monthly salary in the economy is forecasted at 17,400 MDL.
The standard work week is 40 hours (typically 8 hours per day, 5 days a week). Employers must maintain accurate timesheets to manage overtime, which is compensated at a rate of 150% for the first two hours and 200% thereafter.
All employees are entitled to a minimum of 28 calendar days of paid annual leave per year, excluding public holidays.
Female employees are entitled to 126 calendar days of paid maternity leave (70 days prenatal and 56 days postnatal). Following this, partially paid parental leave is available until the child reaches the age of 3.
Fathers are entitled to 15 calendar days of paid paternity leave, which must be taken within the first 12 months of the child's birth. This is fully funded by the state social insurance.
Employees who legally adopt a child are entitled to special leave benefits to facilitate the integration of the new family member, aligning with the protections provided to biological parents.