# Canada Updates Moldova Travel Advisory: What Ottawa Travellers Need to Know
**Planning a trip to Moldova or have family there?** The Government of Canada recently updated its travel advisory for this Eastern European nation, and Ottawa travellers should take note before booking flights or crossing the border.
As of May 4, 2026, Moldova remains at **Level 2 — Exercise a High Degree of Caution**, with certain regions carrying an even higher risk. While this isn’t a “do not travel” warning, it signals that visitors need to stay alert and prepare thoroughly before departure.
## What’s Behind the Advisory
The primary concern stems from Moldova’s proximity to Ukraine and the ongoing armed conflict across its border. Since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, political tensions have rippled through Moldova. Projectiles have crossed Moldovan airspace, and debris has landed near border areas. The security landscape can shift quickly, and demonstrations or civil unrest may occur with little warning.
The Transnistria region—a separatist-controlled area along Moldova’s eastern edge near Ukraine—carries a separate warning to avoid non-essential travel. This zone operates outside Moldovan government control, and Canada’s ability to assist citizens there is extremely limited.
## What This Means for Your Travel Plans
If you’re an Ottawa traveller with Moldova on your itinerary—whether for business, visiting relatives, or exploring Chișinău and wine country—you’ll need extra preparation. Stay away from areas near the Ukrainian border, keep tabs on local news through reliable sources, and register with Canada’s Registration of Canadians Abroad service.
The unpredictable security situation means having contingency plans matters more than ever. Know where Canada’s embassy is located, keep digital and physical copies of your passport, and have emergency contacts readily available.
## Health Preparation Is Critical
Beyond security awareness, protecting your health before departure is essential. Moldova’s healthcare infrastructure differs significantly from what Ottawa residents expect at home. A pre-travel health consultation helps you understand which vaccinations you need—typically including routine immunizations plus hepatitis A and B, and potentially typhoid depending on your plans.
Your travel health appointment should also cover:
– Assembling a comprehensive medical kit with prescription medications and first-aid supplies
– Discussing travellers’ diarrhea prevention and treatment
– Reviewing your insurance coverage for medical evacuation if the security situation deteriorates
– Understanding local healthcare access in Moldova
Given the current advisory level, having appropriate travel insurance with medical coverage isn’t optional—it’s a necessity that complements your physical health preparation.
## Get Prepared Before You Go
Don’t wait until the last minute. Travel health consultations ideally happen 4-6 weeks before departure to allow time for multi-dose vaccines to take effect. For Ottawa travellers, accessing expert guidance has never been more convenient.
Travelling to Moldova? Before you go, speak with one of our ISTM-certified travel health physicians – virtually, 7 days a week. A pre-travel consultation covers vaccines, medications, and destination-specific health risks. Book your virtual consultation at Orleans Travel Clinic Pharmacy.