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How to Obtain Ukrainian Citizenship: Step-by-Step Guide for Foreigners

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How to Obtain Ukrainian Citizenship: Step-by-Step Guide for Foreigners

Q: What are common reasons for refusal of citizenship?

Several factors can lead to the rejection of a citizenship application Ukraine. One of the most frequent and straightforward reasons for delays or denials is turning in an incomplete or incorrect set of documents, which can slow things down significantly or even stop the process altogether. On top of that, having a criminal record — even for something relatively minor — can be a serious obstacle when applying, since Ukraine performs thorough background checks to look into a person’s history. These checks help determine whether someone poses a public safety risk and whether they meet expected levels of moral integrity before citizenship is approved. Also, issues around long-term residence — like time gaps in staying legally, past visa problems, or even something as simple as not keeping your registered address consistent — can hurt your eligibility. People who haven’t really shown an effort to fit into Ukrainian life, like learning the language or the Constitution, or completing the interview and swearing the oath, might end up getting denied. The best way to avoid that? Be upfront, don’t cut corners, and make sure every piece of your application is done right from the start.

Q: What are the benefits of Ukrainian citizenship?

Getting Ukrainian citizenship comes with quite a few benefits. It gives you the right to a Ukrainian passport, which opens the door to visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 130 countries, including a large part of Europe, much of South and Central America, and several regions in Asia. On top of that, Ukrainian citizens enjoy full civil, social, and economic rights, meaning they can take part in both local and national elections, either by giving a vote or even participate as a candidate during elections. In addition, Ukrainian citizens are shielded from deportation and have full legal protection under Ukrainian law. They are entitled to participate in state programs, apply for scholarships, and benefit from international agreements where Ukraine is a signatory. For many, the opportunity to build a life in a growing and resilient European democracy is the most powerful benefit of all.

Q: Is dual citizenship allowed in Ukraine?

Right now, Ukrainian law doesn’t allow dual citizenship. Even if someone obtains a second passport, the Ukrainian government continues to treat them as a citizen. Still, when someone becomes naturalized, they’re generally expected to give up their other nationality. That said, change might be coming. In 2025, Ukrainian legislators said they were putting together a new law to address multiple citizenships, and it’s supposed to be completed by the end of the year. One of the main reasons for this move is to make it easier for the reintegration of Ukrainian refugees and displaced people who flee to different countries. The reform also aims to bring Ukraine closer to the democratic practices of EU countries. Still, the proposal isn’t being rushed. Lawmakers are making sure to build in protections, especially when it comes to Ukrainians in areas that are currently occupied. Some legal experts and human rights groups have expressed concerns that hostile governments—Russia in particular—could try to forcibly impose citizenship on Ukrainian citizens. To address that, the final version of the law is expected to have restrictions for nationals of aggressor states, along with additional verification mechanisms. Until any new rules are officially in place, people applying for citizenship need to stick with the current ones. That usually means renouncing another citizenship after Ukrainian one is granted.

Acquiring Ukrainian citizenship for foreigners is a serious and life-changing decision that opens the door to economical, career and personal life opportunities in the middle of Europe. Whether you're motivated by heritage, marriage, investment, or service, Ukraine provides a legal and structured path for those willing to meet the requirements for Ukrainian passport. This analytical article from Intermarium Law Firm is your comprehensive guide on how to obtain Ukrainian citizenship, including every major procedure, document, and legal condition involved in the journey of Ukrainian citizenship acquisition.

How to Obtain Ukrainian Citizenship: Step-by-Step Guide for Foreigners

Who Can Apply for Ukrainian Citizenship?

Under Ukrainian nationality law, individuals who meet the certain conditions may initiate a citizenship application. Ukraine generally regulate if person is eligible for the blue passport of Ukraine based on factors such as place of birth, residency, marriage, Ukrainian ancestry or contributions to the Ukrainian state.

Main Grounds for Obtaining Ukrainian Citizenship

Ukrainian Citizenship by Birth or Descent

Individuals born in Ukraine or to at least one Ukrainian parent may claim citizenship through descent. This is one of the most simple and commonly used methods recognized under law, as long as the relevant documents are provided to prove that for example grandparent came from Ukraine.

According to the Law of Ukraine "On Citizenship of Ukraine” (Article 7) a person is considered a citizen of Ukraine by birth if, at the time of their birth:

at least one parent was a citizen of Ukraine;
or at least one parent permanently resided in Ukraine, and the child was born on the territory of Ukraine;
or the child was born in Ukraine to foreign nationals who did not transmit their citizenship to the child (thus the child would otherwise be stateless);
or the child was born in Ukraine, and the parents are unknown (and not identified within one year).

Investment Immigration

Foreigners who have made significant economic contributions to the Ukrainian economy may qualify. While not formally codified in current Ukrainian legislation as a distinct route, investment may fast-track how to get Ukrainian citizenship through special consideration. General and commonly used procedure is to acquire permanent residency of Ukraine based on investment of 100 000 US dollars or more into Ukrainian economy, and then transitioning to citizenship after residing in Ukraine for 5 years.

Marriage to a Ukrainian Citizen

Marriage to a Ukrainian spouse provides a viable path, though it requires continuous temporary residence for at least two years and proof of genuine marital cohabitation, then transition to permanent residency, and after that applying for citizenship. However, there are more peculiarities related to immigration based on family reunion with Ukrainian family member.

Military Service or Special Merits

Those foreigners who serve in the Ukrainian Armed Forces or have made exceptional contributions to the state may qualify under special provisions, often expedited through decree. In 2025, Ukraine introduced a law simplifying the procedure to Ukrainian citizenship for foreigners serving in the Armed Forces of Ukraine (ZSU). This legislative step, signed by President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, reflects desire of the government to recognize and integrate those who defend the country — regardless of origin, and improve demographic situation in Ukraine.

Since the beginning of the full-scale armed conflict with Russian, thousands of foreign volunteers have joined Ukraine’s military. In recognition of their courage and sacrifice, the government created a streamlined procedure to support their Ukrainian citizenship acquisition. The law provides that foreign or stateless persons who are serving or have served under contract in the ZSU, National Guard, or other military units are eligible to apply for citizenship through a simplified route.

The application process for these individuals bypasses the usual five-year residence requirement. Instead, verified military service — documented by a military ID or contract — satisfies key criteria. The law also temporarily lifts certain obligations: language and civic knowledge exams are deferred, with new citizens expected to complete them within two years after the end of martial law.

A critical provision concerns dual citizenship. While Ukrainian law traditionally requires renunciation of other nationalities, the new rules allow foreign soldiers to delay this step until the war ends. This provision protects volunteers from hostile regimes, such as Russia or Belarus, who might punish them for renouncing citizenship during wartime.

The law also extends certain protections to family members. Spouses and children of military personnel of Ukrainian armed forces can apply for legal status and temporary residence, creating a long-term pathway for family reunification and eventual naturalization.

This reform is both practical and symbolic. It ensures legal security for foreign members of ZSU or National Guard and sends a powerful message: those who are ready to risk their lives for Ukraine can call it home. By embedding this change in law, Ukraine reaffirms that knowing the process how to get Ukrainian citizenship is not only a matter of paperwork, but of shared values and solidarity in defense of freedom.

Simplified Citizenship Procedures in Ukraine

Categories Eligible for Simplified Process

Stateless persons residing legally in Ukraine
Refugees recognized by Ukrainian authorities
Individuals of Ukrainian descent
Former citizens of the USSR with permanent status in Ukraine

Required Documents for Simplified Application

The list of documents may vary but typically includes:

Application form
Valid foreign passport
Proof of residence abroad
Birth certificate or descent documents
Marriage certificate (if applicable)
Confirmation of no criminal record
Payment receipt for the fee

Ukrainian Citizenship by Presidential Decree

There are certain rare situations where the President of Ukraine may grant citizenship by special decree. This usually applies to people like political asylum seekers, well-known experts in their fields, or others whose naturalization is seen as serving the national interest — such as military officers, volunteers, and similar cases.

Application Process

Where to Submit Your Application

Foreign nationals must submit their application to:

State Migration Service of Ukraine (SMSU)
Ukrainian consulates abroad (if applicable)

Each application is reviewed under the current framework of Ukrainian nationality law.

Fees and Processing Time

The fee for submission varies depending on the type of procedure and legal support required. The timeline for processing generally ranges from 12 to 18 months.

Interview and Oath

Most applicants must pass a background check and undergo a mandatory interview. Upon approval, a formal oath of allegiance to Ukraine is required.

Rights and Obligations of Ukrainian Citizens

Becoming a Ukrainian citizen guarantee to the person full civil and political rights, including the right to vote, work without restriction and work permits, own property, including agricultural land, and access healthcare and education. However, citizenship also involves duties such as tax compliance and military service (if applicable). Also, certain groups of citizens, mainly male, have restrictions related to the martial law, for example freedom of movement outside of Ukrainian boarder.

Common Reasons for Refusal and How to Avoid Them

Rejections often occur due to:

Incomplete documents
Misrepresentation of facts
Failure to demonstrate continuous residence
Dual citizenship issues, since dual citizenship Ukraine is not officially permitted

To avoid refusal, ensure all paperwork is accurate, complete, and submitted through proper channels.

How We Help Clients Navigate the Citizenship Process

Our legal team at Intermarium Law Firm specializes in guiding clients through the complexities of how to get Ukrainian citizenship. We offer:

Initial eligibility assessments
Full support in compiling documents
Representation during the interview
Legal counseling on dual citizenship Ukraine challenges
Appeal procedures for rejected applicants

Conclusion

The path to Ukrainian citizenship for foreigners is complicated process that allows knowledge in law, policy, and procedure. However, with the right support and preparation of Immigration lawyers from Intermarium Law Firm, Ukrainian citizenship acquisition can become a reality for eligible applicants. Whether through descent, marriage, or presidential decree, Ukraine continues to welcome individuals who are consciously willing to contribute to its society and culture.

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