The procedure for renunciation of Ukrainian citizenship: all the important details

Renunciation of Ukrainian citizenship is a complex and formalized procedure that is strictly regulated by the current legislation. This step is usually taken by persons who wish to obtain a passport in another country. Learn more about the conditions and stages of renunciation of Ukrainian citizenship

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Renunciation of Ukrainian citizenship in 2026 remains a complex and multi-level procedure, especially in conditions of martial law. Not all categories of citizens can implement it, and the process itself involves the fulfillment of clear legal requirements.

In this article, we will consider who can renounce citizenship, what restrictions exist, the procedure and important nuances.

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Renunciation of Ukrainian citizenship: what is this procedure?

Renunciation of Ukrainian citizenship is possible only if there is another citizenship or a guarantee of obtaining it, as well as if you live abroad. In 2026, the procedure is significantly complicated due to martial law, especially for military personnel, and is completed exclusively by decree of the President of Ukraine.

Is it possible to renounce Ukrainian citizenship in 2026?

Yes, but only under strictly defined conditions and not for everyone.

Renunciation of citizenship (legally - withdrawal) is regulated by the Law of Ukraine “On Citizenship of Ukraine”. The law provides for three ways to terminate citizenship:

1. Voluntary withdrawal at the initiative of the individual.

2. Loss of citizenship at the initiative of the state.

3. Grounds under international treaties.

In 2026, due to martial law, the procedure became significantly more complicated. The main problem is restrictions on removal from military registration, registration of departure for permanent residence (PMP), and access to consular procedures for certain categories.

In fact, most men subject to military service cannot undergo the procedure.

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Refusal or withdrawal of citizenship: what's the difference?

Withdrawal is a voluntary procedure, loss is a decision of the state without the consent of the individual.

Ukrainian legislation provides for two different procedures:

1. Withdrawal of citizenship - initiated by the individual, requires the submission of an application and is completed by a presidential decree.

2. Loss of citizenship – initiated by state bodies, occurs without the consent of the person and has clearly defined grounds

In 2026, additional grounds for loss of citizenship appeared, in particular: threat to national security, participation in armed aggression against Ukraine and use of forged documents.

Ukrainian legislation partially allows multiple citizenship in exceptional cases, more details at the link.

Who can renounce Ukrainian citizenship?

In 2026, only persons who live abroad and have another citizenship or a guarantee of obtaining it can renounce Ukrainian citizenship.

The main requirements for renouncing Ukrainian citizenship:

- Presence of citizenship of another state or a guarantee of obtaining it.

- Permanent residence abroad (PMP).

- Absence of debts and obligations to the state.

In practice, in 2026, the procedure can actually be completed by persons who left for military service before February 24, 2022, persons not subject to military service, citizens over 60 years of age, and minor children with their parents.

Detailed instructions on how to obtain an EU passport through repatriation in this article.

Who will not be able to renounce citizenship?

Those subject to military service, persons with debts or criminal cases will not be able to renounce Ukrainian citizenship.

It is impossible to renounce Ukrainian citizenship if a person:

- Lives in Ukraine.

- Does not have another citizenship.

- Is a defendant in criminal proceedings.

- Has debts or unenforced court decisions.

- Is on military registration without grounds for withdrawal

This especially applies to men aged 18–60 without a military service certificate issued before 2022.

Find out in this article which European countries are most difficult to obtain a passport in 2026 and what requirements apply to migrants.

How to renounce Ukrainian citizenship: a step-by-step procedure

The procedure for renouncing Ukrainian citizenship consists of several stages - registration of a temporary residence permit, preparation of documents and submission of an application to the consulate.

Stage 1. Registration of departure for a temporary residence permit

To do this, you must:

1. Obtain permission from the State Migration Service or consulate.

2. Deregister from the place of residence.

3. Make a note about temporary residence permit in your passport.

4. Register with the consular office.

5. Deregister from military registration (if possible).

Important! In 2026, this stage is often impossible for those liable for military service.

Stage 2. Preparation of documents

You must submit:

- Application (4 copies).

- Passport of a citizen of Ukraine.

- International passport.

- 4 photos 35×45 mm.

- Document of another citizenship or guarantee.

- Certificate of absence of debts.

Documents of a foreign state must be apostille, translated into Ukrainian and notarized.

Stage 3. Submission of the application

Documents are submitted in person to the consulate or embassy.

Important! Submission through "Diya" or by mail is NOT provided.

Stage 4. Consideration of the application

The application goes through several instances - the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the State Migration Service, the Security Service of Ukraine (if necessary) and the Commission under the President. The final decision is a decree of the President of Ukraine.

Stage 5. Completion of the procedure

After the decree, it is necessary to surrender Ukrainian passports and obtain a certificate of termination of citizenship.

We told you how Ukrainians can travel to the USA in 2026 without U4U in this article.

How long does the procedure for renouncing Ukrainian citizenship last?

In general, the procedure for renouncing Ukrainian citizenship can last up to 12 months or longer.

Officially, the terms are strictly defined, but in practice, the consideration can last up to a year, and sometimes much longer due to queues and martial law. It is almost impossible to influence the speed of the process legally.

What are the consequences of renouncing Ukrainian citizenship?

After the procedure for renouncing Ukrainian citizenship, you lose the rights of a citizen of Ukraine, but you retain your property.

After renouncing citizenship:

- You lose the right to visa-free entry as a citizen of Ukraine, social guarantees, the right to vote and access to free education

- You retain the right to own real estate and the ability to dispose of property.

Important! Agricultural land plots are subject to restrictions for foreigners.

Is it possible to re-obtain Ukrainian citizenship?

Re-obtaining Ukrainian citizenship is possible, but through a general procedure. After a refusal, you can apply for citizenship or for renewal. It all depends on the grounds and circumstances of the specific situation.

What should you do before starting the procedure for renouncing Ukrainian citizenship?

Before starting the procedure, it is worth checking all legal risks. In particular, check for debts, assess the possibility of being removed from military registration, and prepare all documents in advance.

Visit Ukraine specialists help with the preparation of documents and support of the procedure: from the initial analysis of the situation to the preparation of documents and communication with state authorities. This allows you to minimize the risks of refusal and significantly speed up the process.

The better you prepare at the start, the more chances you have to go through the procedure without delays and legal problems.

Get advice from a migration lawyer to assess your case!

Renunciation of Ukrainian citizenship in 2026 is a legally complex procedure with numerous restrictions, especially during martial law. Only certain categories of citizens who already live abroad and have a different citizenship can actually go through it. Before starting the process, you should carefully assess all requirements and risks and, if necessary, seek professional legal assistance.

Let us remind you! We have already told you how Ukrainians can legalize their residence in Germany and how not to lose their right to reside.

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