Moldova backs EU standards for foreign diplomas
The Parliament of the Republic of Moldova has passed in first reading a bill aligning national rules on foreign professional qualifications with European Union standards.
Drafted by the Ministry of Education and Research, the legislation transposes key EU directives. It aims to streamline diploma recognition and boost labor mobility between Moldova and EU member states.
Mutual recognition and European standards
Under the new framework, professionals qualified in an EU member state can practice their occupation in Moldova under identical legal conditions. Moldovan qualifications will benefit from the same reciprocal principle across the bloc.
The bill establishes an updated list of regulated professions aligned with EU criteria. It also allows recognition of qualifications earned in third-party countries, provided minimum training standards are met.
The European professional card and system safeguards
Qualified individuals will receive a European Professional Card. This electronic certificate confirms recognition and permits either temporary service provision or full professional establishment in the issuing country.
The draft law mandates a proportionality assessment prior to regulating new professions or modifying existing rules. Additionally, the government will implement an automated alert system to flag restricted practice cases.
Impact and effective date
The reform offers employers greater trust in standardized qualifications while enhancing international visibility for Moldovan educational institutions.
Following its final adoption in second reading, the law will officially take effect upon Moldova's formal accession to the European Union.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
