Safety

Safety in Moldova

Moldova is generally safe for daily life, with very low violent crime rates, though geopolitical concerns and petty crime require awareness.

Crime Statistics

Global Peace Index 2026: 72nd out of 150 countries

Security Index: 55.4

Violent Crime: Extremely low

• Rare incidents of serious violence
• Safe to walk in Chisinau even at night (use common sense)
• Rural areas very peaceful

Petty Crime: Moderate concern

• Pickpocketing in tourist areas of Chisinau
• Hotel and hostel theft
• Train station area higher risk
• Bag snatching occasionally

Areas of Concern

Chisinau:

• Central Train/Bus Station: Watch belongings
• Tourist areas: Stay alert for pickpockets
• Central Market: Keep valuables secure
• Nightlife areas: Standard precautions

Outside Chisinau: Generally safer, less crime

Transnistria: Breakaway region—exercise extreme caution, check current advisories

Geopolitical Concerns

Ukraine Conflict Proximity:

• Moldova borders Ukraine
• Debris from missiles and drones has landed in Moldova
• Transnistria region has Russian troops
• Energy vulnerability due to conflict

Travel Advisories (2026): Many countries advise "exercise high degree of caution" due to regional instability

Impact on Daily Life: Minimal in Chisinau, but monitor situation

Police and Authorities

Emergency Number: 112 (EU-wide standard)

Police Effectiveness: Variable

• Petty crime response can be slow
• Language barrier for non-Romanian speakers
• Corruption concerns (bribery attempts reported)

Reporting Crime:

• File police report for insurance claims
• Embassy assistance available for serious issues
• Keep copies of all documents

Political Situation

Protests: Occasional political demonstrations

• Can turn violent (rarely)
• Avoid large gatherings
• Monitor local news

Stability: Generally stable democracy, though polarized

Scams and Fraud

Common Scams:

• Taxi overcharging (use apps: iTaxi, Letz)
• Currency exchange rip-offs (use banks)
• Police bribery attempts
• Fake police/officials
• Romance scams online

ATM Safety: Use bank ATMs, cover PIN

Road Safety

Driving: Can be chaotic

• Aggressive driving common
• Poor road conditions outside cities
• Winter driving hazardous
• Pedestrian crossings not always respected

Pedestrian Safety: Watch for cars even on crosswalks

Health and Environmental Safety

Water: Tap water not recommended—drink bottled

Air Quality: Generally good

Natural Disasters: Minimal risk (some flooding in spring)

Women's Safety

Overall: Relatively safe

• Solo female travelers report feeling secure
• Nightlife: Standard precautions apply
• Unwanted attention possible but not excessive
• Dress conservatively in rural/traditional areas

LGBTQ+ Safety

Legal: Homosexuality legal, no anti-discrimination laws

Social: Conservative attitudes, especially in rural areas

Visibility: Limited LGBTQ+ scene, mostly underground

Recommendation: Discretion advised outside Chisinau

Practical Safety Tips

Do:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable taxi apps
• Stay aware in crowded areas
• Keep emergency contacts handy
• Register with your embassy
• Have travel insurance
• Monitor geopolitical situation

Don't:

• Flash expensive items
• Walk alone in unfamiliar areas late at night
• Accept drinks from strangers
• Engage with aggressive vendors
• Travel to Transnistria without research

Emergency Contacts

• Emergency Services: 112
• Police: 902
• Ambulance: 903
• Fire: 901
• US Embassy Chisinau: +373 22 408-300

Overall Assessment

Moldova is safe for expats who exercise common sense:

• Very low violent crime
• Petty theft manageable with awareness
• Geopolitical situation requires monitoring
• Daily life feels secure in Chisinau
• Not a dangerous destination, but stay informed