“This is a very important law for preserving ties between Ukrainians living abroad and their homeland,” Sybiga stated on Facebook. He stressed that the measure aligns with one of President Volodymyr Zelensky’s key priorities and an important objective of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The minister noted that approximately 7.5 million Ukrainian citizens currently reside outside the country. “We need to establish an institution of multiple citizenship so as not to lose our people, taking into account all security measures—especially a mandatory ban on multiple citizenship with the aggressor state—and other provisions,” Sybiga said.
He added that during numerous visits abroad and interactions with Ukrainian communities, the issue of multiple citizenship repeatedly emerged as a top concern. “I am confident that by the second reading, all necessary adjustments can be made, enabling us to take this strategically wise step to maintain the unity of Ukrainians around the world,” he emphasized.
On December 17, the Verkhovna Rada supported Bill No. 11469 in its first reading, which aims to implement the institution of multiple citizenship in Ukraine. A total of 247 MPs voted in favor during Tuesday’s plenary session.
The presidential bill “On Amendments to Certain Laws of Ukraine to Ensure the Right to Acquire and Retain the Citizenship of Ukraine” simplifies the process of acquiring Ukrainian citizenship and clarifies the legal status of certain categories of foreigners and stateless persons. These groups include those who serve in the Armed Forces, the State Special Transport Service, or the National Guard, their spouses, children, and non-family members or parents who have provided support.
According to the explanatory note, adopting this law broadens the opportunities for certain foreigners and stateless persons to obtain Ukrainian citizenship. However, multiple citizenship will not be granted to individuals holding Russian citizenship or to citizens of countries that do not recognize Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
