Multiple citizenship allowed in Ukraine

Ukraine officially allows multiple citizenship: law comes into force

In Ukraine. legislation allowing multiple citizenship came into force. This is reported by «SOUTH».

From now on, Ukrainian citizens can legally hold citizenship of other states, without losing their Ukrainian passport, if this is provided for by law or international agreements.

What the new law changes

The new rules stipulate that:

• Ukrainians can own two or more citizenships;

• having another citizenship is not an automatic ground for losing Ukrainian citizenship;

• the state recognises multiple citizenship as a legal status.

At the same time, the law establishes exceptions and limitations, In particular, for persons holding certain public positions or having access to state secrets.

Who is affected by the restrictions

According to the document, special requirements may apply to:

• judges;

• law enforcement;

• military personnel;

• government officials.

For these categories, the issue of multiple citizenship will be regulated by separate rules.

Context and meaning

The issue of multiple citizenship has remained controversial in Ukrainian society for years. Its legalisation is considered to be an important step for:

• of the Ukrainian diaspora abroad;

• citizens who have been living in the EU, the US and other countries for a long time;

• strengthening Ukraine's ties with millions of Ukrainians outside the country.

The new rules are expected to simplify the legal status of Ukrainians abroad and facilitate the return of investments and specialists to Ukraine.