Chisinau – Transnistria Border Crossing
Crossing the border into Transnistria? One of the things that can be challenging when backpacking is when you need to cross a land border. It’s especially challenging in a country where not many people speak English.
Hopefully, this guide breaks down the border crossing between Moldova and Transnistria nicely. It will make you feel more relaxed about this journey as it is easier than you think!
Crossing the border from Chisinau into Transnistria
You must take the marshrutka from Gara Centrala which is behind the Piata Centrala (central market). The buses have a set schedule and run every 1-2 hours each day. Make sure to leave early if you plan on doing a day trip. The buses will have a sign displaying Tiraspol so you will know you’re getting the correct bus. Tiraspol is where the journey ends.
How to buy tickets for the bus from Chisinau to Transnistria?
There is a ticket office located next to where the buses depart, you should buy your ticket before boarding. It cost 60 MDL (€3.10) for one way.
What happens at the border when from crossing from Chisinau to Transnistria?
When you arrive at the border you will be asked to leave the bus and you should present your ID. You will be asked if you speak English or Russian. You will be asked about the purpose of your trip and your length of stay. It is important you know how long you will be staying as they will give you a visa based off how long you stay. If you say you are staying a day you will be given a 12-hour visa. You will also be asked if you have a big camera. Respond honestly to all the questions and you will have no issues. You will then receive a visa which is a paper slip, be sure not to lose this! Note you will not pass through a Moldovan border as Transnistria is an unrecognised state.
How do you travel from Transnistria to Chisinau?
To go back to Chisinău from Tiraspol you will need to head to the main station you were dropped off at. You will find a line of marshrutkas which say Chisinău in their window. There are set time the buses leave so check out the times in the ticket office and purchase a ticket from the office.
Where do you buy tickets for the bus from Transnistria to Chisinau?
There is a big building which is the bus station and if you head towards the left-hand side of the building you will find a ticket office here. You can pay in either the Transnistria ruble or the Moldovan Leu. It costs 73 MDL (€3.80) for one way.
Where do you buy tickets for the bus from Transnistria to Chisinau?
There is a big building which is the bus station and if you head towards the left-hand side of the building you will find a ticket office here. You can pay in either the Transnistria ruble or the Moldovan Leu. It costs 73 MDL (€3.80) for one way.
What happens when exiting the border from Transnistria?
You will have to exit the marshrutka when you reach the border. You will have to hand over your ID and the visa you were given when entering the country. The immigration officials will keep the paper visa you were given and you will then be allowed to exit the country.
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