Multiple citizenship: what it will bring Ukraine and what hidden dangers we fail to notice

Ukraine offers new opportunities for millions of citizens and foreigners who are already considering obtaining dual citizenship. In June 2025, the Verkhovna Rada passed a law allowing Ukrainians to hold multiple passports without renouncing their Ukrainian citizenship. This move sparked a wave of discussion, ranging from joyful anticipation to deep concern. But what will actually change, and why does multiple citizenship raise so many questions?

Why was this necessary?

The law on multiple citizenship did not appear by accident. Over the past few years, during the war, millions of Ukrainians have been forced to leave the country. Many of them have found a new home and obtained citizenship in other countries. But importantly, they still feel a connection to Ukraine and want to be able to keep their Ukrainian passport without having to renounce it in favor of their new citizenship.

From this perspective, the new law seeks to preserve the legal connection with all Ukrainians, even if they have become citizens of other countries. That is why this step is so important for a state that seeks to retain its citizens around the world.

How has the approach to citizenship changed?

Thanks to the new law, Ukrainians can now retain their Ukrainian passports even if they have acquired another citizenship. There are several conditions for this:

• Multiple citizenship is not permitted for citizens of aggressor states or states that do not recognize the territorial integrity of Ukraine.
• For foreigners of Ukrainian origin, the law offers a simplified procedure for acquiring Ukrainian citizenship, allowing them to retain their rights in both countries without renouncing their first passport.

This law opens up new opportunities for those who have family abroad or work in other countries but do not want to lose their connection with Ukraine.

Simplified citizenship for foreigners

One of the greatest achievements of this law is the simplified procedure for foreigners who want to become citizens of Ukraine. For example, citizens of countries that actively support Ukraine in the war can submit a declaration recognizing themselves as citizens of Ukraine without having to renounce their previous citizenship.

This simplifies the process for those who have lived in Ukraine for a long time and are already integrated into our society. It also simplifies the acquisition of citizenship for military personnel and those who are politically persecuted in other countries.

Important exceptions: what you need to know

Despite all its advantages, the new law has certain limitations. For example, citizens who live in temporarily occupied territories and were forced to accept the citizenship of the aggressor country will not be deprived of their Ukrainian passports. This is an important legal signal: the state does not consider such citizens to be traitors if their actions were carried out under duress.

In addition, for certain categories of persons, such as military personnel or people who have rendered outstanding services to Ukraine, the procedure for acquiring citizenship is significantly simplified, without the requirement of long-term residence or exams.

Challenges and risks

On the one hand, multiple citizenship offers enormous opportunities for the integration of Ukrainians into the world, but on the other hand, this step may also have hidden risks. One of the biggest concerns is the possibility of foreigners buying up Ukrainian land. The law on multiple citizenship does not change the provisions of the Land Code, which allows only Ukrainian citizens to own land. However, if they obtain citizenship, foreigners will still act as full citizens of Ukraine.

Another problem is the possible interference in political processes. Citizens with dual citizenship may obtain the right to vote and run for elected office, which again raises concerns among part of the population about the possibility of lobbying for the interests of other countries.

Land issues and security

One of the most discussed aspects is the issue of land relations. The law on multiple citizenship does not change the rules for buyers of agricultural land. However, there are concerns that foreigners who become citizens of Ukraine will be able to easily gain access to land. Fortunately, such transactions will be subject to strict state control, and this risk is minimized.

Constitutional contradictions?

There is also debate over whether the new law complies with the Ukrainian Constitution, which still proclaims single citizenship. Although some experts argue that this provision does not exclude multiple citizenship, the Constitutional Court of Ukraine is currently considering this issue. It is important that the final decision be made with national interests and state security in mind.

The law on multiple citizenship is an important step in Ukraine’s development on the international stage. It opens up new opportunities for connecting with Ukrainians around the world and encourages the involvement of investors and experts from other countries. However, as with any reform, there are risks that need to be carefully monitored.

The real success of this law will depend on how effectively the state can minimize these risks and ensure proper control to protect Ukraine’s national interests in a globalized world.