Ukrainian Government Approves New Criteria for Simplified Citizenship and Multinational Citizenship for the Ukrainian Diaspora
On October 8, the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine adopted a significant decision that opens new opportunities for foreigners and Ukrainians abroad.
The government decree establishes specific criteria for countries with which Ukraine can implement a simplified citizenship acquisition process.
This means that citizens of these countries meeting the criteria will be able to obtain Ukrainian citizenship more swiftly and with fewer bureaucratic hurdles.Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha announced that these criteria will enable the introduction of a multiple citizenship institute, allowing individuals to hold both Ukrainian and foreign passports simultaneously.
The primary target audience is the Ukrainian diaspora — Ukrainians living abroad, many of whom have been eagerly awaiting such a possibility for years.
He emphasized that priority will be given to countries considered as Ukraine’s closest and most reliable allies, including G7 members, EU countries, and states imposing sanctions on Russia due to its aggression.The decree specifies that the selection of countries will consider factors such as the level and prospects of bilateral relations, support for Ukraine abroad, and cooperation standards in security and political spheres.
Other factors influencing Ukraine’s national interests will also be taken into account.
A separate government body will determine the specific list of partner countries.Minister Sybiha highlighted that this initiative will allow Ukrainian citizens holding foreign nationality to acquire Ukrainian citizenship without renouncing their previous citizenship.
This measure is especially significant for the Ukrainian communities around the world — many of whom have waited decades for this opportunity.
The law permitting multiple citizenship, signed by President Volodymyr Zelensky in July 2025, will come into effect on January 16, 2026, opening new horizons for cooperation and the strengthening of Ukrainian identity abroad.