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Money & currency

Money in Moldova

Updated 2026-10-09

Money & Currency
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Moldovan Leu (MDL)

Currency code: MDL

Practical Money Tips

The Moldovan leu, and changing money

The Moldovan leu (MDL, plural lei) is the currency of the country. Euros and US dollars are the easiest money to bring, best as clean notes, and banks and licensed exchange offices in Chisinau change them at fair rates; the airport counters serve for a first small amount.

Cash machines in Chisinau and the towns

Cash machines are common in Chisinau and found in the larger towns, and most take Visa and Mastercard. In the countryside they are few, so lei for a day at the monasteries or a night in a village are drawn in the capital before setting out.

Cards in the capital, cash in the country

Hotels, restaurants, supermarkets and shops in Chisinau take cards, often contactless. Markets, rural guesthouses, minibuses and village shops take cash, and a little cash is handy at the monasteries and for purchases at the cellars.

The region east of the Dniester

The region east of the Dniester, around Tiraspol, uses its own currency, which is not accepted elsewhere, so travellers who go there change only what they need and spend it before leaving.

Note: Always check current exchange rates before traveling. Currency exchange is available at airports, banks, and authorized money changers.

Common Money Questions

What currency should I bring to Moldova?

Euros are the easiest, and US dollars change easily too. Clean notes change best, at banks or licensed exchange offices in Chisinau.

Can I use my bank card in Moldova?

Yes, Visa and Mastercard work at cash machines and card terminals in Chisinau and the larger towns. In rural areas cash is needed, so lei are drawn before leaving the capital.

Is tipping expected in Moldova?

It is appreciated rather than expected. Leaving something for good service in a restaurant, rounding up a taxi fare and a tip for a cellar guide are all welcome, in lei.

How expensive is Moldova?

Everyday costs are modest by European standards: local food, guesthouses, minibuses and taxis cost little, while cellar tours with tastings and the best restaurants of the capital cost more. Prices move with the exchange rate, so current rates are worth checking when planning.

What currency is used east of the Dniester?

The region around Tiraspol uses its own currency, which has no value elsewhere; travellers change only what they need there and spend it before leaving.

Entry rules, visa types and practical notes live on the Moldova overview.

Treat this Visaja page as your starting point: verify the current rules directly with the official source before you submit an application.