Ukraine sets criteria for countries eligible for streamlined citizenship

Ukraine’s Cabinet of Ministers has approved criteria for foreign countries whose citizens can apply for Ukrainian citizenship through a simplified process, Foreign Affairs Minister Andrii Sybiha reported.

The document was drafted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as part of a reform that opens the way for multiple citizenship for ethnic Ukrainians living abroad.

The main target audience for these changes is Ukrainian communities around the world. Allowing multiple citizenship will enable ethnic Ukrainians who hold foreign citizenship to acquire Ukrainian citizenship while keeping their original nationality, Sybiha said.

“Ukrainians abroad of all generations know how long-awaited this step is. Many have been waiting for it for years,” the minister said.

Priority for the simplified citizenship process will be given to countries considered Ukraine’s closest and most reliable allies, he said.

In determining these countries, the government will consider factors such as membership in the G7 or the EU, support for Ukraine in the war against Russia, including sanctions against Russia, and positions during votes in international organizations.

Other considerations will include strategic partnerships, the level of bilateral relations, financial assistance provided, and other factors affecting Ukraine’s national interests.

“To address the question in advance, the specific list of foreign countries will be determined separately. The resolution defines the procedure for forming and approving this list by the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine,” Sybiha said.

The minister said that the most important thing now is that the government has clearly established a unified approach and a single set of criteria.

“This is a state-focused approach that correctly combines preserving the unity of the global Ukrainian community with the strategic priorities of Ukraine’s national security,” Sybiha said.

The Ukrainian World Congress has consistently called on the government to adopt a law on multiple citizenship and continues to work systematically with authorities to ensure the swift implementation of these changes.

The document was ultimately approved in June and signed by President Zelenskyy in July. The new provisions will take effect on Jan. 16, 2026.