Ukraine’s Cabinet of Ministers has approved a resolution defining the criteria for selecting foreign states with which a simplified procedure for acquiring Ukrainian citizenship will be introduced. The initiative primarily targets ethnic Ukrainians living abroad, the Ministry of Internal Affairs reported.
The new policy introduces a simplified process for acquiring Ukrainian citizenship for ethnic Ukrainians who already hold foreign passports. It aims to enable hundreds of thousands of people around the world to restore their legal and emotional connection to Ukraine.
“Potentially, this could increase the number of Ukrainian citizens — as hundreds of thousands of ethnic Ukrainians and their descendants will be able to reestablish their bond with their homeland,” said Andrii Sybiha, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs.
According to the resolution, priority will be given to Ukraine’s closest and most reliable allies.
The main criteria include:
- membership in the G7 and the European Union;
- support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity;
- imposing sanctions on Russia for its aggression;
- strategic or other forms of partnership;
- financial and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine;
- the overall level and prospects of bilateral relations.
A specific list of eligible countries will be formed and approved separately by the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine.
Foreign Minister Sybiha emphasized that the decision represents a state-oriented approach, balancing the unity of the global Ukrainian community with national security priorities.
The law enabling multiple citizenship was adopted in June and signed by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in July. It will take effect on January 16, 2026.