Citizenship or residence permit: what rights and obligations does a foreigner have in Ukraine?

Foreigners who plan to move to Ukraine often face a choice: to obtain a residence permit or apply for Ukrainian citizenship. Find out what is the difference between these two statuses, what are the pros and cons of each of them, and how to choose the legalization option for yourself

Legal assistance on entry, stay and legalization of foreigners in Ukraine

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Foreigners who decide to live in Ukraine on a permanent basis face a choice: to obtain a residence permit (residence permit) or to seek Ukrainian citizenship. These two statuses confer significantly different rights and obligations that affect both the legal and practical aspects of a foreigner's life in Ukraine. In this article, we will analyze the main differences, as well as the main pros and cons of each of these statuses.

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Residence permit in Ukraine: what are the opportunities and restrictions?

A residence permit allows a foreigner to legally reside in Ukraine. It can be temporary (up to 1 year with the possibility of extension) or permanent (indefinite).

Rights of a foreigner with a residence permit

1. Residence in Ukraine: A foreigner has the right to reside permanently or temporarily in Ukraine without the need to extend the visa.

2. Work without a special permit: Permanent residence permit holders can work without obtaining additional permits, unlike temporary residents.

3. Education and healthcare: Access to educational and medical services on an equal basis with Ukrainian citizens.

4. Traveling: Foreigners with a residence permit can freely cross the border of Ukraine within the validity period of the document.

You can find a detailed procedure for obtaining a residence permit in Ukraine here: temporary residence permit / permanent residence permit.

Restrictions for citizens with a residence permit

1. Political activity: Foreigners with a residence permit are not eligible to participate in elections or be elected to public office.

2. Public service: Inability to hold positions that require Ukrainian citizenship.

3. Long-term stay outside Ukraine: In case of prolonged stay abroad (more than 6 months), a temporary residence permit may be revoked.

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Citizenship of Ukraine: what are the rights and obligations?

Ukrainian citizenship opens up maximum opportunities for a foreigner, but at the same time imposes more obligations.

The rights of a Ukrainian citizen are

1. Participation in political life: The right to vote in elections, to be elected to the authorities, to participate in referendums.

2. Diplomatic support: protection by Ukrainian diplomatic missions abroad.

3. The right to own land: Ukrainian citizens can own land plots for any purpose, while foreigners are limited in their right to acquire agricultural land.

4. Perpetuity: Citizenship does not require renewal or confirmation like a residence permit.

We described in detail how a foreigner can obtain Ukrainian citizenship in a previous article.

Duties of a citizen of Ukraine

1. Military duty: In the event of military mobilization, a citizen of Ukraine may be called up for service.

2. Payment of taxes: Ukrainian citizens are obliged to declare their income and pay taxes even outside the country (in certain cases).

3. Compliance with the law: Citizens are fully accountable to the laws of Ukraine.

What to choose: citizenship vs residence permit

For a short-term stay (work, study or business), a residence permit is sufficient. However, for long-term residence and integration into Ukrainian society, especially with the intention of staying forever, citizenship will be more appropriate.

The choice between a residence permit and citizenship depends on personal circumstances and long-term plans of the foreigner. The residence permit provides basic rights and amenities for legal residence, while citizenship provides all the opportunities that Ukrainian citizens have, but also requires the fulfillment of a wider range of responsibilities.

Legal advice will help you choose the best option, taking into account the specific situation and goals of the foreigner. Visit Ukraine lawyers offer:

● Legal advice: assistance in resolving any migration issues, including the choice between citizenship and a residence permit;

● Paperwork: preparation of applications, verification of compliance with the requirements, submission and receipt of the documents you need;

● Support of procedures: full legal support at all stages.

Seek legal support from professionals to get qualified assistance in resolving your issues!

We remind you! Obtaining Ukrainian citizenship is a multi-stage process that requires compliance with certain requirements. There are general rules for most foreigners and stateless persons, but certain categories have simplified conditions. Read how long you need to live in Ukraine to obtain citizenship and who can benefit from simplified conditions in our previous article.

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