Language

Language in Moldova

Language in Moldova reflects the country's complex history and position between Romanian and Russian cultural spheres.

Official Language

Romanian: Official language of Moldova

• 49.2% identify as "Moldovan" speakers
• 31.3% identify as "Romanian" speakers
• Total: 80.5% speak Romanian/Moldovan (same language)

Note: "Moldovan" and "Romanian" are the same language; the naming is political/historical

Other Languages

Russian: 15.3% native speakers

• Widely understood, especially among older generations
• Common in business and urban areas
• Leftovers from Soviet era

Other Minority Languages:

• Gagauz: 2.3%
• Ukrainian: 2%
• Bulgarian: 0.8%

English Proficiency

Overall Level: Low to Moderate

• Tracked in EF English Proficiency Index
• Younger generation (under 30) more likely to speak English
• Urban areas, especially Chisinau, have more English speakers
• Rural areas: almost no English

Where English Works:

• Tourist areas in Chisinau
• International hotels
• Some restaurants/cafes in center
• Tech companies
• International organizations

Where English Doesn't Work:

• Government offices
• Banks (limited)
• Markets
• Public transport
• Healthcare (except private)
• Rural areas

Language Requirements

For Citizenship: Romanian proficiency A2-B1 level required

For Permanent Residence: Romanian language certificate from Ministry of Education

For Daily Life: Romanian essential for integration

Learning Romanian

Difficulty: Moderate

• Romance language (similar to Italian, Spanish, French)
• Latin alphabet
• Some Slavic influences
• English speakers find it learnable with effort

Resources:

• Language schools in Chisinau (€150-300/month)
• Private tutors (€10-20/hour)
• Online apps (Duolingo, Babbel have Romanian)
• Free: Moldovan-Romanian courses at community centers
• Language exchange meetups

Timeline: 6-12 months to basic conversational, 1-2 years to proficiency

Russian in Moldova

Still Useful: Understanding Russian helps significantly

• Many older residents prefer Russian
• Some media and TV in Russian
• Business dealings often in Russian
• Easier than Romanian for Slavic language speakers

Russian vs Romanian: Learning Romanian more valuable long-term for integration and citizenship

Workplace Language

International Companies: English common

Tech Sector: English widely used

Local Companies: Romanian required

Government: Romanian only

Practical Communication

Apps:

• Google Translate (with camera for signs)
• Deepl (better translations)
• Language exchange apps

Body Language: Universally helpful

Key Phrases to Learn Immediately:

• Bună ziua (Hello)
• Mulțumesc (Thank you)
• Cât costă? (How much?)
• Nu înțeleg (I don't understand)
• Vorbiți engleza? (Do you speak English?)

Cultural Attitudes

Language Sensitivity: Some Moldovans prefer "Moldovan" terminology, others "Romanian"—be culturally aware

Effort Appreciated: Locals appreciate when foreigners attempt Romanian

Russian Usage: Generally accepted but Romanian preferred in official contexts

Recommendations for Expats

1. Start learning Romanian immediately - essential for integration
2. Hire a tutor for fastest progress (very affordable)
3. Practice with locals - most patient with learners
4. Don't rely on English - you'll be frustrated outside Chisinau center
5. Consider learning some Russian as secondary language if comfortable