How the European Union Accession Process Works: Key Steps and Negotiation Areas

The process of joining the European Union involves a series of stages and reforms through which a candidate country aligns its legislation, institutions and standards with those of the EU. In an information material published in November 2026, the European Commission outlines the main steps in this process, as well as the areas covered by accession negotiations.

The process begins when a country submits its application for EU membership, followed by an assessment by the European Commission. Subsequently, EU Member States unanimously decide whether to grant the country candidate status and whether the conditions for opening accession negotiations have been met. Negotiations officially begin once the Member States approve the negotiating framework.

The negotiations are structured around six thematic clusters, covering 35 chapters and areas of EU policy. These include Fundamentals; Internal Market; Competitiveness and Inclusive Growth; Green Agenda and Sustainable Connectivity; Resources, Agriculture and Cohesion; and External Relations.

A central role is played by the Fundamentals cluster, which covers public administration reform, the functioning of democratic institutions, the judiciary and fundamental rights, as well as justice, freedom and security. This cluster is opened first and closed last, reflecting the importance of democratic reforms and the rule of law throughout the accession process.

Throughout the negotiations, the candidate country must demonstrate its ability to implement EU legislation and standards across all policy areas. Once negotiations are completed, the European Commission issues an opinion assessing the country’s readiness for membership. The final decision to conclude the negotiations is taken unanimously by the EU Member States and requires the consent of the European Parliament.

The final stage involves the signing and ratification of the Accession Treaty by all EU Member States and the candidate country.

For the Republic of Moldova, this process means continuing reforms and aligning with European standards across all areas, from justice and public administration to the economy, environment, energy and security. EU accession is not merely a process of legislative negotiations, but also an institutional and economic transformation aimed at delivering lasting benefits to citizens.