Moldova launches tax‑free vacation vouchers for private‑sector workers to boost rural tourism

Private‑sector employers in Moldova can now offer employees tax‑free vacation vouchers worth up to 8,700 lei per year. The vouchers may be spent at any of the 31 participating rural guesthouses, such as those in the historic Orheiul Vechi complex, where visitors stay in traditional clay houses and take part in local workshops.

The measure is intended to stimulate domestic tourism in rural areas. Valentin Ceban, head of the National Tourism Office, said the programme initially targets private‑sector staff, with the possibility of extending to public‑sector employees later. The scheme mirrors Romania's long‑standing vacation ticket system, which has been available to public‑sector workers since 2009.

Tourism operators hope the additional incentive will increase visitor numbers to Moldova’s villages and generate economic benefits for local communities.