Money & Payments in Chișinău

Availability

Very common in Chisinau city center, 24/7 access at most locations outside bank branches

Withdrawal Limits

Typical range 5,000–8,000 MDL per transaction, with some ATMs offering up to 14,000 MDL or 15,000 MDL

Foreign Card Acceptance

Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Plus, Cirrus widely accepted; Amex, JCB, UnionPay generally not accepted

General Note

Cash in MDL is preferred for tipping; card tipping is becoming more common in urban areas but not universal

Rate Quality

Better rates at licensed exchange offices and banks than airport or hotels

Currency Availability

USD, EUR, GBP easily exchanged; MDL is a closed currency (cannot be obtained outside Moldova)

Cash Where Essential

• Public transport (buses, trolleybuses, minibuses/marshrutkas)
• Central Market vendors
• Small local shops and markets
• Tips to guides, taxi drivers, housekeeping staff
• Rural areas and villages

Overview

Moldova has a modernizing banking system with 11+ commercial banks, many with foreign ownership. Account opening is relatively straightforward but requires proper documentation and KYC compliance.

Major Banks

Major banks include Moldova Agroindbank (MAIB), Moldindconbank, Victoriabank, and Mobiasbanca. English service is available at major banks in Chisinau.

Account Features

Modern banking system with 11 commercial banks including foreign banks; SWIFT member banks enable international transfers; multiple currency accounts allowed. As of October 2025, Moldova is connected to SEPA, allowing euro transfers between Moldova and EU countries to be processed faster, more securely, and at significantly lower costs.

Minimum Deposits

Most banks require an initial deposit of $5,000–$10,000 USD or equivalent as an opening balance.

Non Resident Access

Foreigners residing or doing business in Moldova can open both local and offshore bank accounts. Banks in Moldova welcome non-resident account openings subject to standard Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures and identification verification.

Account Opening Requirements

Foreign nationals with a valid Residence Card and IDNP (personal fiscal code) can open accounts. Documentation typically includes notarized passport copies, address proof (utility bills), income source details and references as part of standard account opening due diligence. Processing time is 1-3 business days.