The Ukrainian parliament has passed a law that allows Ukrainian citizens to hold more than one citizenship. The measure is aimed at mitigating the severe demographic crisis deepened by the Russian invasion and strengthening ties with the Ukrainian diaspora. The bill was approved with 243 votes “in favor“, Reuters reports, News.bg reports.
“This decision is an important step towards maintaining and restoring ties with millions of Ukrainians around the world“, said Unity Minister Oleksiy Chernyshov.
According to Ukrainian authorities, the diaspora numbers about 25 million people. At the same time, the country's current population is estimated at approximately 32 million people – a significant drop from 52 million when Ukraine declared independence in 1991.
Until now, Ukrainian law did not allow dual citizenship. This forced ethnic Ukrainians holding foreign passports to renounce them if they wanted to obtain Ukrainian citizenship. Since the beginning of the Russian aggression in February 2022, the issue of dual citizenship has become particularly urgent, given the mass exodus of the population and the growing need for international support.
Data shows that over 5 million Ukrainians currently live in Europe, as the war enters its fourth year.
The new law provides for simplified procedures for:
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children born abroad to Ukrainian parents;
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Ukrainians who have acquired another citizenship through marriage;
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foreign fighters fighting on the side of Ukraine.
It is also planned to create a list of countries with which dual citizenship will be officially permitted.
Although the text of the law does not explicitly prohibit Russian citizens from apply for Ukrainian citizenship, it states that the government will have the right to introduce restrictions related to “armed aggression against Ukraine“.
All foreigners seeking Ukrainian citizenship will have to pass an exam certifying knowledge of the Ukrainian language, history and constitution.