Andrei came to Ireland in 2010 and stayed for two months, looking for work as an irregular migrant. He left his wife and child in Moldova, hoping to find better economic opportunity. He realized almost immediately that he would be unable to find a job without a work permit, and found himself struggling to maintain housing. Andrei decided he could not survive in Ireland, and wanted to return to his family. Unfortunately, he could not afford the travel back to Moldova, as he had invested so much in his move to Ireland.

A friend who knew of Andrei’s situation recommended that he contact IOM to ask about his options for return. Andrei was assisted with buying a plane ticket and in organizing his legal documents to exit the country.

After Andrei returned, he struggled in Moldova because of political and security issues. He and his family survived with financial assistance from Andrei’s relatives at first. Andrei then submitted his business plan to begin a freelance building business. He received building tools and was able to begin providing construction services right away. After six months, Andrei reported that it would be possible to support his family with the income. There is a lot of competition for building services, however, and he needs more funds to buy equipment that will allow him to expand his services.

Andrei said that he feels “50% happy” to back. He is also unsure about his future in Moldova. He is not planning to immigrate again soon, but has the possibility in mind in case he cannot find enough building work to sustain his family.

 

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