Ukraine Allows Dual Citizenship: What the New Law Means

Overview of the New Dual Citizenship Law in Ukraine

Reforms in Ukraine mark a clear shift from the previous model. For decades, Ukrainian law followed a strict interpretation of “single citizenship.” People who acquired another nationality risked losing their Ukrainian passport, even if they were forced to leave the country for safety or stability.

That’s now changed. The new law allows multiple citizenships in certain countries. It doesn’t mean dual citizenship is open to everyone. Only citizens of “friendly states” — a list to be approved by the Cabinet of Ministers — will qualify. Officials have already confirmed that EU countries, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Japan, and other strategic allies are expected to be on this list.

On the other hand, Ukraine’s dual citizenship is explicitly banned with countries considered hostile, most notably Russia. If a Ukrainian voluntarily acquires the citizenship of an aggressor state, that act may lead to automatic loss of Ukrainian nationality. However, the law makes an exception for those forced to accept a foreign passport while living under occupation. In such cases, coercion matters.

Importantly, the law doesn’t create a new legal status. Within Ukraine, dual nationals are still treated as Ukrainian citizens — no exceptions. They cannot rely on their second nationality to avoid legal obligations, military service, or tax liability. This is in line with Ukraine’s existing legal framework and similar to how many other countries handle dual nationality internally. In short, Ukraine allows dual citizenship, but on its terms. The law is designed to reconnect with the diaspora and reward foreign supporters of Ukraine. At the same time, it introduces safeguards to prevent abuse, protect sovereignty, and ensure transparency. The article “Ukraine’s Move to Allow Dual Citizenship: What Foreigners Need to Know” will be helpful if you want to learn the impact and benefits of the reform on those living abroad.

Who Is Eligible for Dual Citizenship in Ukraine

The new Ukrainian dual citizenship law sets clear limits. It’s not open to everyone — only specific groups qualify. Among them are Ukrainians living abroad, members of the diaspora, foreign volunteers who defended Ukraine, and people facing political persecution. Each group must meet strict legal criteria to apply.

Categories of Eligible Individuals

Ukraine allows dual citizenship only for specific groups. Eligibility depends on your connection to Ukraine and the country of your second nationality. Key categories include:

• Displaced Ukrainians and expats. Citizens who emigrated or fled due to war can now keep their Ukrainian passport after acquiring another — if it’s from an approved country.
• Foreign volunteers. Individuals who fought for or supported Ukraine, including International Legion members, may qualify through a simplified process. Residency can be waived.
• Political refugees. Applicants persecuted in their home countries may be eligible if their second nationality is from a friendly state. Each case is reviewed individually.
• Foreigners from approved states. Those with no ethnic ties may still apply if they meet standard requirements (residency, language, clean record).

Ukraine’s dual nationality is not available with hostile or unapproved countries. In such cases, renouncing your other citizenship may be required.

Citizenship for Ethnic Ukrainians and Diaspora

The new citizenship legislation in Ukraine creates a real path for ethnic Ukrainians abroad. Millions of people with Ukrainian heritage but without formal status can now apply through a simplified process. It’s a way to reconnect with family roots while keeping the life they’ve built elsewhere.

Applicants must prove ancestry through documents, such as birth records or certificates from consulates or community groups. The requirements are easier than usual — just one year of residence and basic tests in language and history.

This change makes Ukrainian dual citizenship available to the global diaspora. It’s a chance to restore identity and secure legal ties to a country.

How to Obtain Dual Citizenship in Ukraine

Getting Ukrainian citizenship under the new law involves several steps. The process is clear but depends on your category and background. In most cases, the application starts with verifying eligibility, then gathering documents, passing legal checks, and completing formalities — now possible because Ukraine does allow dual citizenship.

Application Process

The first step in applying for dual citizenship in Ukraine is confirming eligibility. This depends on your background. Each group we specified before follows a separate legal path.

Most applicants must live in Ukraine for at least one year before applying, unless exempt (such as through military service). The State Migration Service processes the applications, and they are ultimately decided by the President. If you’re abroad, you may begin through a Ukrainian consulate.

Required Documents for Application

The paperwork is strict but manageable. Most applicants will be requested to provide the following:

1. A valid passport from a current country.
2. Proof of eligibility — for example, birth certificates showing Ukrainian heritage, or military records if applying as a volunteer.
3. Application forms and declarations (especially if you request to retain your current citizenship).
4. Ukrainian language and civics certificates (unless exempt).
5. Residency permit or visa.
6. Proof of a clean criminal record.
7. Photos and payment confirmation of application fees.
8. Certified Ukrainian translations of all foreign documents.

The goal is to show that you meet all legal requirements and that your second citizenship (if you already have one) comes from a country on the approved list.

Application Processing Times'

Timing depends on the category. For diaspora applicants, expect at least one year of residence plus several months for review. In total, 1.5 to 2 years is a realistic estimate. For foreign volunteers, it may be faster. Military service replaces the residency requirement, and the decision often comes directly from the President’s office. Some cases have been resolved within months.

Administrative backlogs may occur at the beginning. The law only takes effect six months after publication. So, the first applications will likely be accepted in late 2025 or early 2026. These are the first real cases where Ukraine allows dual citizenship under the new framework, and initial processing may be slower as the system adjusts.

Where to Submit Documents

If you’re already in Ukraine, submit your application to the regional office of the State Migration Service. If you’re abroad, you can begin the process at a Ukrainian consulate. They’ll forward the file, but key steps will still happen inside Ukraine.

The oath of allegiance and final passport issuance must take place on Ukrainian territory. You’ll need to be present for that.

If you’re a current Ukrainian citizen planning to acquire a second citizenship, you don’t apply. Instead, you file a declaration with the government after receiving your second passport. This requirement is new. The Cabinet of Ministers is expected to create a separate procedure for such declarations.

Restrictions and Exclusions According to Ukrainian Law

Ukraine does allow dual citizenship, but only under strict conditions. Not every combination of passports is legal. The second citizenship must come from a country on Ukraine’s approved list. This list will include states that support Ukraine and respect its borders, such as EU countries, the U.S., Canada, Japan, etc. If your other nationality comes from a hostile or unrecognized state, you’ll need to renounce it.

Russian citizenship is not allowed. If a Ukrainian citizen voluntarily obtains a Russian passport, they lose Ukrainian nationality by law. This rule does not apply to those in occupied territories who were forced to accept Russian documents. In such cases, proof of coercion matters. Public office comes with its limits. Dual citizens cannot hold positions in parliament, government, courts, police, or national security. Only Ukrainian citizenship is accepted for these roles. This ensures full legal loyalty — one person, one allegiance.

Inside Ukraine, only your Ukrainian citizenship is valid. You can’t use your foreign passport to avoid laws, taxes, or military duty. Foreign consular protection is not recognized on Ukrainian soil. Property laws also remain unchanged. Only Ukrainian citizens can own agricultural land. If you gain citizenship legally, even as a second passport, you have the same rights as any other national. But a foreign passport alone won’t give you access.

Key Benefits of Dual Citizenship for Ukrainians

This change is not only legal — it’s deeply personal. Dual citizenship in Ukraine gives people a way to stay connected without giving up anything. It removes the pressure to choose between countries, families, or futures.

Here’s what reforms in Ukraine change:

• Diaspora inclusion. Ethnic Ukrainians abroad can apply for a Ukrainian passport and keep their original nationality. No need to give up ties to where they were born or raised.
• Security for refugees. Ukrainians who fled the war and naturalized abroad can keep their Ukrainian citizenship. No legal penalty. No hidden risk.Simplified status for families.
• Children born to Ukrainian parents abroad can now legally keep both nationalities. This ends years of confusion and legal gray zones.
• Mobility and opportunity. Dual citizens can live, work, vote, and own property in both countries. Healthcare, retirement, and education rights stay intact.
• National benefit. Citizens abroad are more likely to invest, return, or support Ukraine — directly or indirectly. This reform turns them into partners, not outsiders.

In short, Ukraine’s dual nationality gives people options. It respects their past and supports their future. The country gains — and so do its people, wherever they live.

Legal Services for Dual Citizenship Provided by Intermarium

Every case is unique. One missing document or wrong step can delay or block your application. Intermarium is here to help you prevent that. Our legal team offers:

• Eligibility assessment. Your background — ancestry, military record, and second citizenship — is carefully reviewed to determine your path under the law. Clarity from the start.
• Document support. We help gather, translate, certify, and assemble the required materials. We also your file meets all legal requirements and procedural standards.
• Application oversight. Submission, tracking, and coordination with authorities, including consulates if you're abroad, are handled with attention to detail and timing.
• Resolution of complex issues. If your case involves gaps, risks, or prior declarations, we work to address them. Our role is to present a clear, supported position.
• Legal briefings post-approval. After you’re approved, we will explain your tax, military, and travel responsibilities so you remain compliant across jurisdictions.

Your application is prepared to withstand legal scrutiny. Ukraine's citizenship law evolves, so expert support today helps avoid complications tomorrow.

Legal Considerations: Taxation, Military Service, and Civil Rights

Ukraine allowing multiple citizenship gives flexibility but not exemption. The law applies equally to all Ukrainian citizens.

Key points to know:

• Taxes. Ukraine taxes are based on residency and income source, not citizenship count. If you live or earn in Ukraine, you must file taxes. Double taxation treaties may apply, but you must declare income properly. Second citizenship in Ukraine doesn’t change tax rules.
• Military duty. Ukrainian men aged 18–60 can be conscripted. If you live in Ukraine or have registration here, you’re not exempt. A second passport doesn’t shield you. Prior service abroad may be considered, but on a case-by-case basis.
• Civil rights. Dual citizens can vote, own property, and access services. But they can’t hold high-level public positions unless they renounce their other nationality. Inside Ukraine, only Ukrainian citizenship counts. No consular protection. No foreign exceptions.

Whether you have one passport or two, your obligations remain.

Common Issues and Risk Mitigation

Even when the rules are clear, problems may still arise. Here are the most frequent risks and how to reduce them:

• Constitutional risks. Ukraine’s Constitution still mentions “single citizenship.” The new law reinterprets it, but future court challenges are possible. Track legal updates and keep full records of your application.
• Delays or rejections. Missing documents, expired certificates, staff shortages, or other issues at consulates can slow you down. Check details, prepare backups, and expect long wait times, especially early on.
• Non-approved second passport. Dual nationality in Ukraine is only allowed with approved countries. Russia is excluded. Others may be added or removed. Always check the list before applying.
• Military and tax overlap. You may face obligations in both countries. File taxes correctly. Review draft laws. And get advice from both jurisdictions to avoid conflict.
• Occupied territory cases. If you were forced to take a passport in Crimea or other regions, your case requires extra care. Document coercion — medical needs, employment requirements, or safety concerns. Context matters.

Proper preparation reduces risk. Even in complex cases, a strong legal position can make the difference.

Conclusion

The decision of Ukraine to allow dual citizenship is more than a legal reform — it’s a signal of openness to the world. The law creates new opportunities for Ukrainians abroad, foreign allies, and those with ancestral ties to the country. It also offers clarity for refugees and volunteers who stood with Ukraine during the war.

At the same time, the system comes with clear rules. Restrictions apply. Obligations remain. But for those who qualify and prepare properly, Ukrainian dual nationality is now not only possible — it’s legally protected.