Dual Multiple Citizenship Law Adopted

Verkhovna Rada Legalized Multiple Citizenship: What Will Change for Ukrainians and How to Get Legal Help

On June 18, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine passed Law No. 11469 in its entirety, allowing Ukrainians to hold multiple citizenships. The law received support from 243 MPs. This means millions of Ukrainians living abroad will now be able to officially retain their Ukrainian passports even if they acquire the citizenship of another country included on a special list to be approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.

Key provisions of the law:

• Possibility of holding multiple passports: Ukrainians will be allowed to be citizens of other countries without losing their Ukrainian citizenship — as long as the other country is on the list approved by the Cabinet.
• Exceptions: The law excludes multiple citizenship with aggressor states (e.g., Russia) or countries that do not recognize Ukraine’s territorial integrity. Voluntarily acquiring such citizenship will result in the loss of Ukrainian citizenship.
• For diaspora and new citizens: The law simplifies the process of acquiring Ukrainian citizenship for ethnic Ukrainians, individuals facing political persecution, and foreigners serving in the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
• Only Ukrainian citizenship recognized in Ukraine: In legal relations with the state, a person is considered solely a Ukrainian citizen, even if they have multiple passports.
• Restrictions for officials: Public servants and judges are prohibited from holding multiple citizenships.
• Exams for new applicants: Citizenship applicants must pass exams on the Constitution, Ukrainian history, and language.

How the system will work:

• List of countries to be approved by Cabinet: Recognition of multiple citizenship depends on whether the other country is on the list created by the Ukrainian government.
• Loss of citizenship: Voluntarily obtaining the citizenship of a country not on the list will lead to automatic loss of Ukrainian citizenship.
• Declaration for existing dual citizens: If you already hold a second passport and the country is on the list, you can file a declaration recognizing yourself as a Ukrainian citizen.

Practical guidance and legal advice:

• Follow updates: The Cabinet still needs to publish the official list, so it’s important to check for updates before applying for foreign citizenship.
• Legal support: If you already have a second passport or plan to apply for another citizenship, consult lawyers who specialize in citizenship law. They will help you navigate the process and prepare the necessary documents.
• New administrative services: New services will become available — such as filing declarations, consultations regarding the list of countries, and document support.
• Have questions? WINNER Law Firm provides consultations on the legalization of multiple citizenship, assists with document preparation, and supports clients in communication with authorities.

When will the law take effect?         
The law will come into force six months after its official publication. The Cabinet must use this time to adopt by-laws and finalize the list of approved countries.

Summary:
The possibility of multiple citizenship is a step toward modern legal standards, support for the Ukrainian diaspora, and new opportunities for citizens. If you have questions or need help with documentation, contact the experts at WINNER — they’ll make sure everything is handled correctly and efficiently.