The citizens of the People’s Republic of China, of Kuwait and of Qatar will not need a short-stay visa in the Republic of Moldova if they hold only a permit of stay or a valid visa (except for the transit one) issued by one of the European Union member states or signatories of the Schengen Agreement. A bill to this effect was passed by Parliament in the first reading on May 25, IPN reports.

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration Daniela Morari said the move is aimed at facilitating the attraction of foreign investment and at promoting tourism.

Asked by MP Iurie Leanca why the bill applies to only three states, Daniela Morari said the list of states will be extended gradually.

Under the bill, the citizens of the three states will be able to stay on Moldova’s territory for 90 calendar days during any period of 180 days. If the stay exceeds 90 calendar days during any period of 180 calendar days, these citizens will be obliged to apply for a long-stay visa in accordance with the law.