Parliamentary elections in April 2009 resulted in violent demonstrations. The situation for the moment is more settled, however you should still avoid any political rallies, demonstrations or large gatherings.

Caution is advised if considering travelling to Transnistria; consult your embassy in Chisinau for the most up-to-date information.

You should be vigilant to petty crime, particularly in Chisinau. It is advised to always carry a photocopy of your passport for identification purposes, as police checks are frequent.

There is a zero tolerance policy for possessing or supplying drugs; therefore, there are strong penalties for possession or use of drugs.

Avoid taking photographs of military or government installations.

The Moldovan authorities are now strictly enforcing penalties (including deportation) against foreign visitors who overstay the terms of their visas.

This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organisations for the latest travel advice:

British Foreign and Commonwealth Office

Tel: 0845 850 2829.
Website: www.fco.gov.uk

US Department of State

Website: http://travel.state.gov/travel
Embassies and tourist offices

Ministry of Culture and Tourism

Piata Marii Adunari 1, Chisinau, MD 2033, Moldova
Tel: (22) 227 620.
www.turism.md

Embassy of the Republic of Moldova in the UK

5 Dolphin Square, Edensor Road, London W4 2ST, UK
Tel: (020) 8995 6818.
www.britania.mfa.gov.md

Embassy of the Republic of Moldova in the USA

2101 S Street, NW, Washington, DC 20008, USA
Tel: (202) 667 1130 or 1137 (ext. 15 for consular section).
Webste: www.embassyrm.org