Is it possible to restore Ukrainian citizenship and retain German citizenship at the same time: the lawyer of Visit Ukraine answers

Ukrainians who have renounced Ukrainian citizenship but wish to restore it are faced with the question: do they need to renounce the citizenship of another country? This is especially true for those who live in countries that recognize dual citizenship, such as Germany. Let's understand the rules of restoration of Ukrainian citizenship on the example of a real appeal to Visit Ukraine lawyers

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The process of restoring Ukrainian citizenship for Ukrainians who have previously renounced it and adopted the citizenship of another country through an official procedure is generally simplified. But does it require renunciation of current citizenship and how does the country's preparation for the adoption of the draft law on the introduction of multiple citizenship affect this? These and other questions are answered by a Visit Ukraine lawyer in this article.

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The procedure for restoring Ukrainian citizenship with a German passport - legal advice from Visit Ukraine

In this article, we will analyze the basic rules and nuances of restoring Ukrainian citizenship on the example of a real application for written advice from Visit Ukraine lawyers.

Request: I am interested in a single question, I have previously renounced my Ukrainian citizenship because I was granted German citizenship. Now both countries have recognized the possibility of dual citizenship. I would like to clarify, if I try to obtain, restore Ukrainian citizenship, will Ukraine require me to renounce my German citizenship?

Current situation with dual citizenship in Ukraine

As of January 2025, Ukraine does not officially recognize dual citizenship, i.e. a person holding another citizenship is considered exclusively a citizen of Ukraine under the law. However, in some cases, in practice, other citizenship is allowed, especially if this citizenship was acquired after the person renounced Ukrainian citizenship.

Requirements for restoration of Ukrainian citizenship

The procedure for restoration of citizenship is regulated by the Law of Ukraine “On Citizenship”. Here are the main aspects:

1. Restoration is possible under a simplified procedure if you:

● Have previously been a citizen of Ukraine;

● Have renounced Ukrainian citizenship in accordance with the law;

● Can provide supporting documents of previous citizenship.

2. Renunciation of foreign citizenship: As a general rule, in order to obtain or restore Ukrainian citizenship, you need to provide an obligation to renounce the citizenship of another state. However, this does not always mean automatic renunciation of the citizenship of another country. In practice, much depends on agreements between countries and specific circumstances.

What should you do in your situation?

Since Germany and Ukraine have now recognized the possibility of multiple citizenship, this opens the way for retaining both citizenships. Here are the key aspects of the legislation that clarify this situation:

● If you acquired German citizenship while renouncing your Ukrainian citizenship, you can apply for restoration of Ukrainian citizenship;

● Ukraine may require a formal commitment to renounce German citizenship, but in practice this may remain a formality due to current changes in the law that allow for multiple citizenship;

● Germany does not require renunciation of its citizenship upon obtaining another citizenship, provided that it is in accordance with its legislation.

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Recommendations

1. Consultation with the consulate: contact the Consulate of Ukraine in Germany to clarify the procedure for restoration of citizenship. Consulates are well aware of such situations.

2. Preparation of documents: prepare documents confirming your previous Ukrainian citizenship and its loss, as well as your current German citizenship.

3. Submitting an application for restoration: submit an application to the migration service of Ukraine or to the consulate of Ukraine abroad.

Possible complications

Ukraine has not yet officially introduced a mechanism for recognizing dual citizenship, so situations can be resolved on an individual basis. However, at present, restoration of Ukrainian citizenship is possible without automatic renunciation of German citizenship, given the current international context.

How to get a legal consultation from a Visit Ukraine lawyer?

To get a consultation, choose a direction (migration issues, visas, employment or study abroad, business), country and a convenient format of cooperation: written or oral online consultation or comprehensive legal support.

To make an appointment for a consultation:

● Fill out the form with your details (name, e-mail, contact phone number).

● Choose a convenient date for a consultation.

● Read the terms of the agreement and make a payment.

Not sure which consultation format to choose? Contact our managers via Telegram or WhatsApp - they will help you choose the best option for your situation.

Visit Ukraine lawyers provide qualified assistance to Ukrainians in solving migration issues. Our team consists of experienced specialists who help with various issues, including:

● obtaining refugee status and temporary protection

● obtaining visas and residence permits

● family reunification

● employment abroad;

● appealing against refusals to grant status, etc.

Sign up for a consultation with Visit Ukraine lawyers to get professional help! Our experts will find the best solution for your situation.

We remind you! In the previous article, Visit Ukraine lawyers have already told you how to move to Germany in 2025 with a temporary protection status in another country. Follow the link to find answers to all your questions.

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