The martial law imposed on the territory of Ukraine restricts the right to free border crossing for men aged 18 to 60. Find out whether the restrictions apply to men with dual citizenship and whether they can leave in 2024

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During the period of martial law, crossing the border by male citizens of Ukraine aged 18 to 60 is restricted. However, whether these restrictions apply to men with dual citizenship is discussed further in the article.

What does the law of Ukraine say about dual citizenship?

The Law of Ukraine "On Citizenship of Ukraine" states that if a citizen of Ukraine has acquired the citizenship (nationality) of another state or states, then in legal relations with Ukraine he or she is recognized only as a citizen of Ukraine, and vice versa, if a foreigner has acquired the citizenship of Ukraine, then in legal relations with Ukraine he or she is recognized only as a citizen of Ukraine. 

This means that a person who has acquired the citizenship of another state does not lose Ukrainian citizenship, and therefore, in legal relations with Ukraine, is recognized only as a citizen of Ukraine. 

Accordingly, such a person is entitled to all the rights and obligations provided for citizens of Ukraine, including military duty. 

Thus, men of military age who have dual citizenship are liable for military service and are restricted in their right to cross the border during martial law.

Can a man with dual citizenship leave Ukraine?

As a reminder, crossing the state border is possible for young men under the age of 18 and men over the age of 60. Persons unfit for military service may also leave freely, subject to confirmation by the relevant conclusion of the military qualification commission. 

As for men with dual citizenship, the Border Guard Service has access to a database of Ukrainian citizens. Therefore, it is quite possible that even if you try to cross the border with a passport of another state, a person with dual citizenship will be identified.

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How to leave Ukraine with dual citizenship?

If a person with dual citizenship considers the need to change his or her place of residence, he or she may apply for permanent residence abroad. In this case, it is necessary to apply to the migration service and obtain a permit to leave for permanent residence. It will also be necessary to "deregister" from the military register. 

The departure will be carried out on the basis of a stamp of the Migration Service on the registration of departure for permanent residence abroad, which is affixed to the passport of a citizen of Ukraine.

For more information on leaving Ukraine for men permanently residing abroad, please see here.

It should be noted that leaving Ukraine for permanent residence in another country is a rather lengthy and complicated procedure that often requires legal support. You can get help with the preparation of the relevant documents on the Visit Ukraine website. Our lawyers will answer all your questions and help you with the collection and execution of the necessary documents. Follow the link to sign up for a consultation or order full legal support.

For a full list of conditions for men to cross the border, please read our previous article.

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