From 1 January 2026, the Republic of Moldova will take a significant leap forward in its integration with the European Union by joining the EU’s “Roam like at home” initiative — a game-changing move that will bring tangible benefits to both ordinary citizens and cross-border trade. This development marks Moldova’s inclusion into a key element of the EU’s digital single market and offers a much-needed boost for communication, mobility, and economic ties across the continent.
What is “Roam like at home”?
Since 2017, EU citizens travelling within the Union have benefited from the “Roam like at home” scheme, which allows them to use their mobile phones — including calls, text messages and data — in any other EU country without incurring additional roaming charges.
Now, starting 1 January 2026, Moldovan citizens will enjoy the same benefits when visiting any EU member state. Simply put, Moldovans will pay the same rates for mobile services abroad as they do at home — no more sky-high bills for checking emails, making a call, or using Google Maps while in another EU country.
Benefits for the Moldovan diaspora and travellers
1. Affordable communication for millions of Moldovans
With a large Moldovan diaspora living and working in the EU, this change represents a major relief. Families will be able to stay in touch more easily, and Moldovans travelling to visit relatives or for work will no longer need to buy foreign SIM cards or restrict their phone use due to high roaming costs.
Whether you’re travelling to Italy for a holiday, visiting family in France, or attending a conference in Germany, you’ll be able to use your Moldovan mobile plan just like you do at home — seamlessly and affordably.
2. A win for students and professionals
For Moldovan students studying in the EU, and for professionals working remotely or in multinational teams, constant access to mobile data and connectivity is no longer a luxury — it’s a necessity. The “Roam like at home” scheme ensures that Moldova’s young generation can access digital tools like emails, video calls, cloud services, and navigation tools without interruption.
This level of connectivity will make study exchanges, research collaboration, and professional networking much easier, supporting Moldova’s deeper integration into Europe’s academic and digital economy.
Boosting Moldova–EU trade relations
The benefits of this agreement extend far beyond personal convenience — it’s also a catalyst for trade and economic cooperation.
1. Stronger communication for business
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Moldova with trade partners or suppliers across the EU will now benefit from uninterrupted, low-cost communication, making coordination, negotiation, and customer service smoother and more cost-effective.
Business owners travelling to EU countries for trade fairs, meetings or logistics will no longer be penalised for staying connected on the move.
2. Support for cross-border digital services
As Moldova continues to build its reputation as a hub for IT and digital services, this roaming agreement will make it easier for companies to operate across borders, manage remote teams, and deliver services to clients in EU countries — all without facing communication barriers or hidden costs.
In a time where digital readiness is crucial for competitiveness, Moldova is now better positioned to engage in EU-wide business activities.
A symbol of digital integration and EU alignment
Moldova’s entry into the “Roam like at home” system is not just a practical win — it’s also highly symbolic. It demonstrates that the country is aligning its regulatory and technological systems with those of the European Union.
This decision is part of the EU’s wider digital transformation strategy and signals confidence in Moldova’s readiness to participate in a digitally connected European space. It shows that Moldova is not just a neighbouring partner, but a country on a clear path toward deeper integration with the EU — economically, socially and digitally.
A few things to keep in mind
Mobile operators will apply a “fair use policy” to prevent abuse of roaming privileges. This typically includes reasonable limits on data usage while abroad, which will be clearly communicated to customers.
Travellers are advised to:
- Check with their operator if their current plan supports EU roaming.
- Review the operator’s fair use policy before departure.
- Ensure roaming is activated on their phone before travelling.
Conclusion
The inclusion of Moldova in the “Roam like at home” scheme is a landmark development — one that empowers citizens, strengthens the diaspora connection, and supports Moldovan business in operating confidently across EU borders.
It’s a change that reflects Moldova’s future-facing vision and its commitment to aligning with European norms. From 1 January 2026, Moldovans will no longer feel like foreigners when they use their phones in the EU — they’ll be connected, integrated, and at home.
Europe is no longer just a destination — it’s a shared digital space where Moldova now belongs.