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Entry Rules & Migration Card
The migration card
Every foreign visitor entering Transnistria (Pridnestrovie) is issued a migration card at the border. It is valid for up to 45 days and can be extended repeatedly, so a standard tourist visit — even a longer one — is comfortably covered by the initial card.
You do not need to apply for a visa in advance. The migration card, filled out on arrival, is the only entry formality for most travelers.
What documents you need
- A valid passport, or another identity document proving citizenship of a foreign state (an internal passport or ID card is also accepted from some countries).
- Completion of the migration card at the checkpoint — this is done on the spot, not in advance.
Who doesn’t need a migration card
- Foreign citizens who already hold an unexpired Transnistrian migration card from a previous visit.
- Holders of a temporary or permanent residence permit in Transnistria.
- Visitors on international cooperation programs who have been notified to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in advance.
No visa, no COVID requirements
It is not required to open a visa to visit Transnistria. There is also no requirement for a COVID-19 test or vaccination certificate to enter.
Traveling through Moldova
Because Transnistria is landlocked within the Republic of Moldova, you must enter through Moldova — there is no other way in. Most travelers fly into Chisinau and cross by road or rail from there; see our border crossings guide for the exact checkpoints, and our Transnistria tour from Chisinau page if you would rather cross with a guide who handles the paperwork.
Traveling in a group
If you are organizing a group of 10 or more people, submit an application to the Ministry of State Security at least 5 working days before arrival. Groups typically cross the border together, out of the regular queue, and are expected to depart as the same group they arrived with (barring unforeseen circumstances).
If you need to stay longer
The 45-day migration card can be extended more than once. If your travel plans change, ask about an extension well before the card expires — a local registration point, or your tour operator, can point you in the right direction.