Multiple Citizenship in Ukraine 2026: A Comprehensive Legal Analysis of the New Law

In 2026, Ukraine enacted one of the most fundamental changes to its migration and citizenship policy in its modern history. The new law officially legalizes multiple (dual) citizenship, a highly anticipated move designed to strengthen ties with the global Ukrainian diaspora and integrate foreign volunteers who have tied their futures to the country. Historically, Ukraine adhered strictly to a single-citizenship principle, often creating legal gray areas for those who acquired foreign passports. This legislative breakthrough now permits Ukrainians to hold passports from specific allied states without the risk of losing their Ukrainian citizenship. In this expert legal review, we will analyze the mechanisms of the new law, the rules for foreign military personnel, and the impending regulatory frameworks regarding taxation and military service.

✅ Core Legal Principle: The new legislation officially abolishes the automatic loss of Ukrainian citizenship upon acquiring a foreign passport, provided the foreign state is included in the approved list determined by the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine.

What Changes for Ukrainian Citizens?

From a legal standpoint, the entry into force of this law eliminates the long-standing risk of forced denaturalization. Previously, voluntarily acquiring a foreign passport was a direct ground for losing Ukrainian citizenship. Now, citizens can legally hold multiple passports. However, the law does not grant a blanket permission for passports of any country.

The legislature has delegated the authority to regulate this to the executive branch. The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine is mandated to approve and regularly update the exhaustive list of countries with which dual citizenship is permitted. Preliminary discussions highlight key allied states such as the USA, Canada, Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic. Consequently, citizens will be able to officially formalize their status without hiding their second passport. The exact procedural rules—such as the obligation to notify state registers, administrative liabilities for failing to do so, and specific restrictions on holding public office—will be detailed in upcoming bylaws and governmental decrees.

Opportunities for Foreigners and Volunteers

• The General Naturalization Pathway: The law establishes a transparent route for foreign nationals from the approved list of countries to acquire a Ukrainian passport. Applicants must meet standard constitutional requirements, which strictly include passing state exams to prove proficiency in the Ukrainian language, knowledge of Ukrainian history, and understanding of the fundamentals of the Constitution.
• The Fast-Track for Military Personnel: A crucial argument introduced by lawmakers was the moral and legal obligation to foreign defenders. The law introduces a highly simplified naturalization procedure for foreigners serving in the Armed Forces of Ukraine under a contract during martial law. For these individuals, completing just 1 year of military service is sufficient to earn the right to Ukrainian citizenship. Furthermore, this expedited procedure extends to the immediate relatives of military personnel who have died in combat or continue to serve.
• The State’s Position on Obligations (Taxes and Draft): While the right to hold two passports is secured, the state explicitly reserves the right to enforce civic duties. The law dictates that complex issues regarding dual taxation, pension accruals, social benefits, and, most importantly, military conscription obligations will be governed by separate, upcoming governmental decisions. Dual citizens will not be able to use a foreign passport to automatically evade the constitutional duty to defend Ukraine.

Conclusions and Legal Advice

The legalization of multiple citizenship is a monumental step towards European integration and recognizing the reality of a globalized Ukrainian nation. However, from a jurisprudential perspective, the framework is still in its transitional phase. Currently, there is no automatic international data exchange regarding dual passports between Ukraine and other nations, keeping personal data relatively insulated. Yet, as bilateral treaties are signed, this will change. We strongly advise our clients to consult with immigration attorneys before initiating the acquisition of a second passport to fully understand the impending tax residency rules and military registration requirements.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Will I lose my Ukrainian citizenship if I obtain a US or Polish passport now?
Answer: No. Under the new law, acquiring a passport from an allied country approved by the Cabinet of Ministers is entirely legal and does not result in the deprivation of your Ukrainian citizenship.

Question: Can a foreign volunteer serving in Ukraine get a passport without giving up their original one?
Answer: Yes. Foreigners who have completed at least 1 year of service in the Armed Forces of Ukraine under a contract can obtain a Ukrainian passport through a simplified procedure, provided their home country is on the permitted list for dual citizenship.

#DualCitizenship #UkraineLaw #Immigration2026 #ExpatUkraine #MarzoniLaw