Your guide to being an expatriate in Moldova

Demographics of Moldova:

Religion Overview

Moldova has a significant Orthodox Christian population, with over 98% of the country identifying as Christian. The Moldovan Orthodox Church is the largest Christian denomination in the country, and enjoys close ties with the Russian Orthodox Church. There are also small Catholic and Protestant communities in Moldova, particularly in rural areas.

Major Religions

Climate

Moldova has a continental climate with distinct seasons. Summers are warm and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 18-22°C (64-72°F). Winters can be harsh, with frequent snow and temperatures dropping below freezing. Spring and fall are typically mild and colorful.

Economy Overview

Moldova's economy has grown significantly in recent years, driven largely by agriculture and services. The country enjoys strong trade ties with Europe and Russia, and has experienced rapid growth in the tech sector in recent years. Despite this progress, Moldova still faces a number of economic challenges, including high levels of corruption and inequality.

Key Industries

• Agriculture (33.1%)
• Industry (29.0%)
• Services (37.9%)
• Tech sector (growing rapidly)

Major Companies

• Moldtelecom
• Moldovan Agrarian Bank
• Moldova Agroindbank
• Moldova-Agroindbank
• Priorcell AG

Culture and Language Overview

With roots stretching back centuries, Moldovan culture is a unique blend of Slavic, Romanian, and European influences. The country is known for its thriving arts scene, which includes traditional music, dance, and literature. Moldovan cuisine is equally rich and diverse, featuring a range of hearty dishes based around grains, vegetables, and locally sourced meats. English and Russian are widely spoken in Moldova, in addition to the official languages of Moldovan and Russian.

Cultural Highlights

• Mosan tradition - a unique religious celebration involving fasting and prayer
• Balalaika music - a traditional form of Slavic folk music
• Moldovan painting - prominently featuring traditional motifs and colors
• Comedia dell'arte - an Italian form of theater that has been adopted and adapted by Moldovan performers

Geography and Landmarks Overview

With rolling hills, fertile farmland, and dense forests, Moldova's landscape is both beautiful and varied. The country is home to a range of noteworthy landmarks and cultural sites, from ancient monasteries to stunning urban architecture.

Notable Landmarks

• Milestii Mici Winery - the world's largest wine cellar with over 200 kilometers of tunnels
• Bendery Fortress - a historic citadel dating back to the 18th century
• Piatra lui Sofronie Monastery - a beautiful Orthodox Christian monastery featuring traditional Moldovan architecture
• Old Orhei - a historic site featuring ancient ruins dating back to the 13th century
• Chișinău Botanical Garden - a stunning urban oasis boasting over 10,000 plant species

National Holidays

• New Year's Day (January 1)
• Independence Day (August 27)
• Victory Day (August 9)
• Christmas (December 25)
• Good Friday (variable)
• Easter Sunday (variable)
• Easter Monday (variable)

Political Stability

Moldova has made significant progress in establishing a stable and democratic government in recent years, although corruption and political instability continue to pose challenges. The country is a member of the European Union's Eastern Partnership program and has expressed interest in pursuing closer ties with the EU. However, relations between Moldova and Russia have remained a source of tension, with the two countries signing a landmark trade agreement in 2014. Despite these challenges, Moldova is widely regarded as a safe and stable destination for expats and visitors alike.