How Sailors Can Open a Bank Account in Moldova: Step-by-Step Guide and Required Documents

How Sailors Can Open a Bank Account in Moldova: Step-by-Step Guide and Required Documents

Ukrainians, including sailors, may face certain specific requirements and processes when opening a bank account in Moldova. In this article, we will explore the general process for opening a bank account in Moldova for Ukrainians, taking into account the specific requirements for sailors, and highlight key aspects to be aware of.

Familiarization Stage

Moldova has several leading banks. The most popular banks include:

  • Victoriabank
  • Moldindconbank
  • MAIB
  • ProCredit Bank

According to the law, many banks open accounts for foreign nationals only if they have a residence permit (ВНЖ). Temporary protection does not qualify in this case.

Another way to open a bank account in Moldova, if you don’t have a residence permit, is through a labor contract. If you have a labor contract with a local company, you can open an account without major problems.

If your labor contract is with a foreign company, you will need to undergo a verification process to open an account. Only after this process will you be informed whether the bank will open an account for you.

Additionally, even if you successfully open a bank account as a non-resident, the bank may set limits on withdrawals from the account or card.

Please make sure to inquire about this information before applying to open an account.

Preliminary Stage

Before opening an account in a bank in Moldova, sailors are advised to contact the bank by phone. For example, you can call ProCredit Bank at 080 000 010 to clarify all details and prepare the necessary documents.

Required Documents to Open an Account in Moldova for Ukrainians

To open a bank account, sailors will need to provide the following documents:

  • Internal Ukrainian passport with registration
  • Foreign passport (1st page)
  • Page of the passport with the entry stamp into Moldova
  • Stamp from the passport showing the last entry into the Republic of Moldova
  • Latest employment contract on the ship. If no contract is available, this must be reported to the bank.
  • Contact phone number.

These documents must be sent by email to the bank or provided in person at the bank branch for further analysis and account opening.

Features and Benefits

Opening a bank account in Moldova can offer sailors a number of advantages, such as the ability to withdraw up to $2200 per day. This limit is significantly higher than other banks, where the withdrawal limit is usually no more than $400 per day. This is especially important for sailors who may need access to large sums of cash in a short time.

Conclusion and Next Steps

After successfully opening the account, sailors will receive all the necessary information about using the account, including cards, online banking, and other services. It is important to be aware of possible service fees and other charges to avoid unexpected expenses.

Conclusion

Opening a bank account in Moldova for sailors requires careful preparation and understanding of local requirements and processes.

To make this process as smooth as possible and avoid potential complications, you should:

  • Have a preliminary consultation with the bank
  • Understand the terms of account usage
  • Prepare the necessary documents

Moldovan banks offer sailors convenient and favorable conditions for opening and using bank accounts, making them an attractive option for maritime professionals.

Additionally, in the summer of 2024, updates on simplifying account opening for Ukrainians in Moldova were introduced by MAIB bank.

If you want to open an account within the EU, read our article about opening an account for Ukrainians in Polish banks.