Ukrainians living in the Republic of Moldova will be able to acquire Ukrainian citizenship under a simplified procedure. The Ukrainian government has added Moldova to the list of countries whose citizens are covered by this mechanism, Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko said.
According to her, she discussed the decision with Moldovan Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu.
Svyrydenko called the move a natural step for the two countries, which share a common border, a common path toward the European Union, and mutual support amid Russia’s aggression.
“A large Ukrainian community lives in Moldova, and we want people to have easier access to Ukrainian citizenship,” the prime minister said.
At the same time, Svyrydenko said the government’s next task is to make the procedure as convenient as possible.
At present, applicants for Ukrainian citizenship must pass exams in the Ukrainian language, the Constitution, and the history of Ukraine. However, these exams can currently be taken only in Ukraine.
Svyrydenko said the government is working on the possibility of allowing the exams to be taken remotely.
Ukraine also plans to regulate the final stage of document processing through its foreign diplomatic missions so that people can receive a Ukrainian passport without unnecessary obstacles.
Separately, during the talks with the Moldovan prime minister, the two sides discussed the development of joint transport infrastructure. In particular, they discussed the construction of a new bridge between Ukraine and Moldova.
According to Svyrydenko, the project should create additional opportunities for people and businesses.
Ukraine and Moldova share a common border and are both moving along the path of European integration. Since the start of Russia’s full-scale war, Moldova has also become an important destination for Ukrainians forced to leave their homes because of Russian aggression.
