Multiple (Dual) Citizenship in Ukraine: New Rules, Opportunities, and Risks

Ukraine has officially allowed multiple citizenship. This news is historic not only on a political level but also for millions of Ukrainians around the world. If you already hold a passport from another country or are planning to obtain Ukrainian citizenship, this directly concerns you. However, new opportunities also come with new challenges.

The law firm Olson helps you understand the details — who is entitled to multiple citizenship, who may lose it, and in which cases you should not take risks without legal consultation.

What is multiple citizenship — and why is it important?

Before the new law was adopted, Ukrainian legislation formally prohibited dual citizenship, but it did not provide for liability for holding it. As a result, millions of people held second passports but did not disclose them. This created a legal “gray zone” lacking transparency and rights protection.

The new law has, for the first time in history, legalized multiple citizenship — but only in clearly defined cases and with established limitations.

Who can hold multiple citizenship in Ukraine?

Among those officially allowed to hold several passports are the following categories:

• Children with parents of different citizenships or adopted by foreigners;

• Spouses of foreigners who automatically receive the partner’s passport;

• Emigrants who obtained another citizenship in their country of residence;

• Foreigners of Ukrainian origin — through a simplified procedure;

• Foreign military personnel serving in the Armed Forces of Ukraine;

• Citizens of “friendly countries” who may keep their first passport by simply submitting a declaration recognizing themselves as citizens of Ukraine.

The list of friendly countries is expected to include the EU, the USA, Canada, the United Kingdom, Israel, Japan, Australia, and others.

Who is prohibited from having multiple citizenship?

There are categories of persons for whom dual citizenship is strictly forbidden:

• Citizens of Russia who voluntarily obtained a Russian passport may automatically lose their Ukrainian citizenship;

• Persons with citizenship of countries that do not recognize Ukraine’s territorial integrity or have supported the annexation of Crimea;

• The list includes Russia, Belarus, Syria, Iran, Nicaragua, Venezuela, and other aggressor states.

A special case involves residents of occupied territories who were forced to obtain Russian passports. Their Ukrainian citizenship may be preserved — but only if the circumstances are properly documented in legal terms.

What changes for foreigners?

The new law simplifies the path to Ukrainian citizenship for those who have a real connection to Ukraine:

• You do not need to renounce your existing passport;

• It is enough to submit a declaration instead of a commitment to renounce;

• You must pass an exam: on Ukrainian history, the Constitution, and the Ukrainian language.

This is especially relevant for:

• People of Ukrainian descent;

• Foreign volunteers and soldiers;

• Individuals permanently residing in Ukraine.

Important condition: In Ukraine, you are considered only a Ukrainian citizen

If you have two passports — within Ukraine, you are recognized solely as a citizen of Ukraine. This means:

• You cannot seek assistance from another country’s consulate;

• You are not entitled to diplomatic protection from a foreign state;

• You will be held accountable as a Ukrainian citizen.

This rule protects the interests of the state and eliminates dual interpretations when someone tries to benefit from both citizenships at the same time.

When should you consult a lawyer?

If you:

• Already hold two passports but have not officially disclosed this;

• Want to apply for Ukrainian citizenship;

• Plan to obtain citizenship based on origin, marriage, or military service —

you definitely need legal consultation.

Any mistake in documentation, declarations, or wording may lead to the loss of citizenship, denial of your application, or even legal issues.

How can the law firm Olson help?

Olson’s lawyers already support dozens of clients in complex citizenship-related cases:

• We prepare complete and accurate document packages;

• We explain risks and how to avoid them;

• We represent clients’ interests in government agencies;

• We help clarify legal questions regarding already obtained passports.

Contact us — and get it right the first time

Citizenship is not just a passport status. It is your rights, freedoms, heritage, and future.

Write to us — and get safe, professional support today.