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14 Feb. 2025

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Does the status of a foreign Ukrainian give the right to citizenship?

For foreigners in UA
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Ukraine
Does the status of a foreign Ukrainian give the right to citizenship?

The status of a foreign Ukrainian opens up additional opportunities for obtaining Ukrainian citizenship by simplifying the procedure. However, it does not automatically grant the right to a passport, but only facilitates the path to its acquisition. Learn more about the conditions and benefits of this procedure

Legal assistance on migration issues for foreigners
Legal assistance on migration issues for foreigners
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Many people living abroad are interested in the possibility of obtaining Ukrainian citizenship through the status of a foreign Ukrainian.


Does this status give an automatic right to a Ukrainian passport and what advantages does it provide in the process of acquiring citizenship - we will tell you further in the article.




Who is a ‘foreign Ukrainian’?


A foreign Ukrainian is a foreigner or stateless person who


- has Ukrainian ethnic origin or originates from the territory of modern Ukraine;

- recognises the Ukrainian language, culture and traditions as their national identity.


This status is confirmed by a special certificate issued in accordance with the Law of Ukraine ‘On Foreign Ukrainians’.


Does the status of a foreign Ukrainian give the right to citizenship?


This status does not provide a direct automatic right to acquire citizenship. However, it greatly simplifies the process of obtaining a Ukrainian passport due to the special conditions provided for by law.




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How does the status of a foreign Ukrainian help to obtain citizenship?


In accordance with the Law of Ukraine ‘On Citizenship of Ukraine’, foreign Ukrainians can benefit from a simplified procedure for acquiring citizenship. The main advantages:


- No need to reside in Ukraine for 5 years before applying, as is required of other foreigners.

- There is no requirement to obtain an immigration permit or permanent residence permit. - Simplified application for citizenship provided that the previous citizenship is renounced (except for countries where official renunciation is not possible).


What documents are required to obtain citizenship through the status of a foreign Ukrainian?


The following documents are required to apply for citizenship under the simplified procedure:


- Passport or other identity document.

- Certificate of a foreign Ukrainian.

- A document on renunciation of previous citizenship (or a statement on the impossibility of renunciation).

- Certificate of no criminal record.

- An application for Ukrainian citizenship.


If you need assistance in preparing documents or support during the citizenship procedure, please contact the migration lawyers of Visit Ukraine.


They will help you to properly prepare all the necessary documents, explain the legal nuances and provide full support at every stage of the process.




Is it possible to retain two citizenships?


Ukrainian law does not recognise dual citizenship, so in general, a person must officially renounce their previous citizenship to obtain Ukrainian citizenship. However, if the applicant's country does not allow renunciation of citizenship, it is possible to retain both passports with a relevant certificate.


The process of changing the legislation on multiple citizenship is currently underway, so the rules may change over time.


Advantages of the status of a foreign Ukrainian


The status of a foreign Ukrainian is a useful legal tool for those who want to obtain Ukrainian citizenship faster and easier. Main advantages:


- No need to wait for 5 years of residence in Ukraine before applying.

- No need to obtain an immigration permit.

- Possibility of a simplified application for citizenship.

- In some cases, you can retain your previous citizenship.


Migration lawyers of Visit Ukraine will help you understand all the nuances of obtaining Ukrainian citizenship through the status of a foreign Ukrainian.


They will provide professional legal support and make the process of obtaining citizenship as quick and clear as possible.


Order a professional consultation and simplify your path to Ukrainian citizenship!




Just to remind you! The e-Residency programme in Ukraine opens up opportunities for foreigners to conduct business without being physically present in the country, but not all applicants are approved. Rejection can be caused by various factors: from belonging to ‘risky’ countries to errors in documents. Read more about the main reasons for e-residency rejection and possible ways to appeal here.


Photo: Wikipedia


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We recommend purchasing it for a safe and comfortable trip to Ukraine: 


Visit Ukraine Insurance – health insurance with coverage of war risks;

Visit Ukraine Mini Hull Insurance – car insurance with extended coverage in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Osago – compulsory motor third party liability insurance for cars with Ukrainian registration;

Visit Ukraine Tickets – bus and train tickets to/from Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Tours – the largest online database of tours to Ukraine for every taste;

Visit Ukraine Hotels – hotels for a comfortable stay in Ukraine;

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