In a groundbreaking legislative move, Ukraine is set to introduce multiple citizenship, a policy that aims to encourage Ukrainians living abroad to return home. On June 19, 2025, the Ukrainian parliament, the Verhovna Rada, passed a bill permitting dual nationality, marking a historic shift in the country’s nationality laws. The law awaits the signature of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who has openly supported the initiative since submitting it last summer. Oleksiy Chernyshov, the Vice Prime Minister and Minister for National Unity, emphasized this legislation as a critical step in reuniting the Ukrainian diaspora—particularly those who were displaced due to the ongoing conflict with Russia, which began with the annexation of Crimea in 2014 and escalated into full-scale war in 2022.
The backdrop of this policy change paints a stark picture, with around 25 million Ukrainians currently residing outside their homeland, a number strikingly close to the 32 million still living in Ukraine. Chernyshov articulated the government’s goal of “uniting Ukrainians throughout the globe,” suggesting that many nationals who adopted foreign citizenship would still wish to retain their Ukrainian identity. The newly implemented law will enable individuals to hold both Ukrainian citizenship and that of another country, thereby offering a solution for those who have felt forced to choose between their native nationality and the citizenship of the country they sought refuge in.
However, the law has specific limitations. Dual citizenship will not be available to Russian citizens or individuals from countries that refuse to acknowledge Ukraine’s territorial integrity. The Ukrainian government is tasked with creating a list of nations whose citizens may apply for dual nationality. Deputy Foreign Minister Serhii Kyslytsia indicated that careful selections will be made to ensure alignment with national interests. This cautious approach underscores the delicate political context surrounding Ukrainian citizenship amid ongoing geopolitical tensions, especially regarding Russia.
Chernyshov expressed optimism about the prospect of many Ukrainians returning home once a peaceful resolution to the conflict is achieved. Drawing on the nation’s recent history, he noted the return of displaced Ukrainians after areas were liberated from Russian control. He anticipates that as conditions in Ukraine improve, particularly through economic development and reforms aimed at generating employment opportunities, roughly one-third of those who left since the beginning of the full-scale invasion in early 2022 might choose to return. He recognized the value that Ukrainians bring to the European labor market, suggesting that returning migrants could further enhance Ukraine’s developmental prospects.
The legislation introduces new criteria for losing Ukrainian citizenship, including acquiring a Russian passport or serving in the Russian military. This element of the new law is significant, as it underscores the gravity of the conflict with Russia and aims to disincentivize actions that may be seen as aligning with the aggressor’s interests. By establishing clear grounds for the loss of citizenship, the Ukrainian government is sending a strong message about national loyalty in the midst of an ongoing war that has deeply affected many lives.
In conclusion, the introduction of multiple citizenship in Ukraine is a pivotal move aimed at fostering national unity and encouraging the diaspora to reconnect with their roots. The initiative reflects a broader strategy to revitalize the nation amidst adversity, as officials recognize the complex realities faced by many who have left, often against their will. With the law poised to support dual nationality for eligible applicants, the Ukrainian government’s hope rests on an improved future that entices its citizens to return and contribute to the rebuilding and evolution of their homeland.
