To legally operate a foreign-registered vehicle on Moldovan roads, you must obtain a vignette—a road usage tax certificate. This requirement applies to all vehicles not registered in Moldova, with the exception of motorcycles.
Steps to Apply for a Moldova Vignette:
- Online Purchase:
- Official Website: Visit the e-Vinieta portal to purchase the vignette online. This platform allows you to select the appropriate vignette type and duration for your vehicle.
- Payment: Payments can be made securely through the MPay system using standard payment methods.
- In-Person Purchase:
- Bank Branches: Vignettes are available at Moldova Agroindbank (MAIB) branches, which are located at border crossing points and throughout the country.
- Payment Terminals: Self-service terminals from providers like Qiwi, Paymaster, MMPS, and PayNet offer vignette purchasing options. These terminals are commonly found at border crossings, fuel stations, and shopping centers.
Important Considerations:
- Timing of Purchase: The vignette must be obtained immediately upon entering Moldova. For online purchases, if the start date is the current day, the vignette becomes valid from the time of payment confirmation and remains valid until midnight of the last day of the selected period.
- Duration and Fees: Vignettes are available for various durations, including 7 days, 15 days, 30 days, 90 days, and 180 days. Fees vary based on the vehicle category and selected period.
- Verification: Authorities, including the National Patrol Inspectorate and mobile teams of the Customs Service, may verify vignette compliance. Ensure you have proof of payment accessible during your stay in Moldova.
- Penalties for Non-Compliance: Driving without a valid vignette can result in fines ranging from 45 to 180 conventional units, equivalent to approximately 2,250 to 9,000 Moldovan lei. Additionally, you will be required to pay the vignette fee for the entire period of your vehicle’s stay in Moldova.
By following these steps and considerations, you can ensure compliance with Moldova’s road usage regulations and avoid potential fines.