The status of a foreign Ukrainian provides, among other things, free visas and access to education in Ukraine. Find out how to get the appropriate certificate, what documents you need to submit, and how long it will take to process your application

Legal assistance on entry and stay in Ukraine for foreign citizens

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According to Article 3 of the Law of Ukraine “On Foreign Ukrainians”, a foreign Ukrainian is a person of Ukrainian ethnic origin or originating from Ukraine, but not a citizen of the country. This status, among other things, provides a number of advantages, such as free visa processing or the opportunity to receive education in Ukraine on a state-funded basis. In this article, we will look at the procedure for obtaining the status, what documents are required, and how long it takes to process an application.

We have described in detail who can obtain this status and what benefits it provides in our previous article.

How to obtain the status of a foreign Ukrainian?

Only those who have reached the age of 16 and do not have Ukrainian citizenship can apply for this status. The document confirming this status is a certificate of a foreign Ukrainian issued for a period of 10 years, but it does not replace the passport of a citizen of Ukraine.

Pursuant to clause 3 of the Procedure for registration and issuance of a certificate of a foreign Ukrainian, approved by the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine dated 17.11.2004 No. 1531 (as amended), a person who wishes to acquire the status of a foreign Ukrainian shall submit a written application in the form as set out in the Annex.

Where and how to submit the application?

Depending on the applicant's place of residence, the application can be submitted

— in Ukraine - to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine;
— abroad - to the diplomatic missions of Ukraine.

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What documents do I need to submit?

In order to obtain the status of a foreign Ukrainian, a package of documents must be submitted along with the application form, which includes:

1. Passport document or a document that replaces it.

2. Copies of documents confirming Ukrainian ethnic origin (birth certificate or other documents on the origin of relatives, the fact of residence in Ukraine).

3. Two color photographs 30x40 mm in size.

4. Receipt of payment for services for issuing the certificate.

In addition, written testimonies of Ukrainian citizens or other foreign Ukrainians (but not less than three persons) confirming the applicant's ethnic origin may be submitted. The application package may also include references from public organizations of Ukrainians abroad, if the applicant is a member of such organizations.

Procedure for consideration of the application

The application is sent (for documents submitted abroad, no later than two months from the date of their receipt) to the National Commission for Ukrainians Abroad, which considers it within 90 days and makes a decision.

If the decision to grant the applicant the status of a foreign Ukrainian is made, the National Commission issues a certificate in accordance with the established form, which, together with a copy of the decision, is handed over to the foreign Ukrainian by a representative of the National Commission or sent to the diplomatic mission of Ukraine in the country of his/her residence.

Thus, the applicant may receive the certificate in person or by mail to the address specified in the application (by registered mail).

If the National Commission refuses to grant the status of a foreign Ukrainian, the applicant receives a copy of the decision. After that, you can try to appeal the refusal or submit a new application, correcting the deficiencies.

Obtaining the status of a foreign Ukrainian opens up new opportunities for people of Ukrainian descent living in Ukraine or abroad. It is a way not only to keep in touch with Ukraine, but also to take advantage of a number of privileges in visa and educational matters. It is important to carefully prepare the necessary documents and follow the application procedure to get a positive decision.

If you need assistance in obtaining the status of a foreign Ukrainian or advice on other legal issues, please contact Visit Ukraine lawyers. Our specialists provide full support in the process of preparing and submitting documents, as well as help with legalization and other aspects of staying in Ukraine. You can order a consultation or full legal support on our website.

We remind you! The Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine has voted in favor of Draft Law No. 9585 in the second reading, which allows foreigners serving in Ukraine to obtain Ukrainian citizenship. Read why this step is significant for many foreign military personnel and what rules will apply to russians and Belarusians.

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

Ihor Usyk is the Head of Legal Department at Visit Ukraine

Before you travel to Ukraine or while you are already in the country, seek legal advice. Our team will help you feel safe and confident during your trip, business trip or relocation.