Moldova breaks bilateral visa waiver agreement with Israel

On June 23, 2024, Moldova announced adding Israeli citizens to their electronic visa system. This decision follows Israel's announcement of the introduction of an electronic travel authorization system (ETA) for visitors from visa-exempt countries, including Moldova.

The changes call into question the visa-free agreement in force between the two countries since 2014. Moldova's ambassador to Israel, Alex Roitmansaid on his X account (formerly Twitter) that the ETA-IL system "will have an impact on Moldovan travellers to Israel, many of whom are employed by Israeli companies, and will de facto put an end to the visa-free regime with the Republic of Moldova by the State of Israel“.

Implications for travelers

Pilgrimage to Uman

These new measures could particularly affect Jews and Israelis traveling to Uman, Ukraine, for the annual pilgrimage. Uman, located in the Cherkassy oblast, is a major pilgrimage site for the Breslov Hasidic movement, attracting tens of thousands of visitors each year for Rosh Hashanah. Moldavia, sharing a border with Ukraine, plays a crucial role in alternative travel routes to Uman, given the suspension of direct flights to Ukraine due to the war.

Country Before June 2024 After June 2024
Israel ๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฑ Visa-free entry for Moldovans ETA system required
Moldova ๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฉ Visa-free entry for Israelis Electronic visa required

Israel's ETA system, which will be fully operational this summer, will require visitors from visa-exempt countries to obtain prior authorization for stays of up to 90 days. The system is likely to use machine learning algorithms to analyze information provided by travelers and compare it with various security databases.

Moldova's older e-visa system operates in a similar way, but is still intended for countries requiring a prior visa. It is likely to incorporate online identity verification mechanisms and security protocols to protect applicants' data.

Diplomatic and economic implications

Ambassador Roitman stressed Moldova's commitment to promoting bilateral relations with Israel "in a spirit of mutual respect and reciprocity", while expressing the country's willingness to engage in discussions on this issue. This statement suggests a diplomatic approach aimed at maintaining positive relations despite policy changes.

The new visa requirements could have an economic impact on :

  1. Moldovan workers in Israel
  2. Religious tourism to Uman via Moldavia
  3. Trade between the two countries

April 2024, Moldova signed an agreement with the European Union to strengthen cooperation in border management, which could influence the country's future visa policies.

As CEO of Visamundi, I am dedicated to facilitating international travel by helping our customers obtain visas worldwide. By staying at the forefront of ever-changing regulations, I ensure that our agency is a trusted pillar in the field of visa services.

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