How to Obtain Ukrainian Citizenship by Residency in 2025
Foreign nationals may acquire Ukrainian citizenship by naturalization after holding a valid permanent residence permit and meeting the legal and linguistic requirements. The process is regulated by the Law on Citizenship of Ukraine and administered by the State Migration Service.
This 2025 guide walks you through eligibility, documents, language exam, residence requirements, and how to apply for Ukrainian citizenship step-by-step.
Eligibility Criteria
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Residency | 5 years of legal and continuous residence with a PR permit. |
| Language | Ukrainian language proficiency required. |
| Income | Proof of stable legal income to support yourself. |
| Criminal Record | No serious criminal convictions in Ukraine or abroad. |
| Renunciation | Must renounce current citizenship (dual citizenship not permitted). |
Residency Pathway Overview
- Temporary Residence Permit (TRP): Often a prerequisite for PR; valid for 1–3 years depending on category.
- Permanent Residence Permit (PRP): Must hold this for 5 years prior to citizenship application.
- Citizenship Application: Filed through local branch of the State Migration Service.
Simplified Routes: Available for individuals with Ukrainian heritage, marriage to a Ukrainian citizen, or military service in Ukraine (shortened residency period or waiver of some requirements).
Application Steps (2025)
- Hold valid Permanent Residence Permit for 5 years.
- Pass Ukrainian language proficiency exam.
- Collect necessary documents.
- Submit application at State Migration Service regional office.
- Wait for Presidential Decree approving citizenship (via Presidential Administration).
Required Documents
- Valid passport and legalized/translated documents
- Permanent residence permit (PRP)
- Proof of legal income and employment (or pension/social support)
- Ukrainian language certificate
- Certificate of no criminal record (domestic and foreign)
- Document proving renunciation or intent to renounce prior citizenship
- Medical certificate (if applicable)
Costs & Fees
| Service | Approx. Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Citizenship Application Fee | UAH 1,200–2,000 | Varies by region and service tier. |
| Language Exam | UAH 1,000–1,500 | University-certified providers. |
| Translations / Legalization | UAH 300–1,000 per doc | All foreign-language documents must be certified in Ukrainian. |
Tips for Success
- Keep all legal stays documented; gaps in residence can delay eligibility.
- Consult with a migration lawyer to ensure renunciation is handled properly.
- Prepare for language testing early; it’s a common stumbling block.
- Ensure all foreign documents are legalized and translated per Ukrainian standards.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I hold dual citizenship in Ukraine?
No. Ukraine does not officially allow dual citizenship. You must provide proof of renunciation.
2. How long must I live in Ukraine?
5 years of continuous residence with a permanent residence permit.
3. Do I need to speak Ukrainian?
Yes. You must pass a Ukrainian language test as part of the application.
4. How long does it take?
Typically 6–18 months from submission to Presidential Decree of approval.
Resources & Government Links
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