**Ukraine’s Parliament Passes Bill Allowing Dual Citizenship**
In a significant move, Ukraine’s parliament has supported a bill that will allow Ukrainian citizens to hold passports of foreign countries. The draft law was backed by 243 lawmakers in the second and final reading, paving the way for Ukrainians to have multiple citizenships.
The legislation, which must receive a presidential signature before entering force, outlines conditions for holding multiple citizenship and simplifies procedures for foreigners wanting to obtain Ukrainian passports. Until now, the status of multiple citizenship has not been recognized by Ukrainian law.
**New Grounds for Losing Citizenship**
The bill also establishes new grounds for losing Ukrainian citizenship, including receiving a Russian passport or serving in the Russian Armed Forces. This move comes at a time when Ukraine is still reeling from the full-scale invasion by Russia, which drew millions of Ukrainians to flee their home country.
**Recognizing the Rights of Ethnic Ukrainians**
The bill is seen as part of Ukraine’s effort to strengthen ties with Ukrainians living abroad. President Volodymyr Zelensky had included the step in his 10-point internal resilience plan last November, saying it should allow ethnic Ukrainians born abroad to obtain citizenship.
**Simplifying Procedures for Foreigners**
The government will determine the list of countries whose citizens will be able to obtain Ukrainian passports in a simplified way, taking into account issues like EU membership or imposed sanctions in connection with Russian aggression. Multiple citizenship will be recognized for foreigners from these listed countries who apply for Ukrainian citizenship, or if Ukrainian citizens apply for citizenship in these countries.
**A Move Towards Greater International Ties**
With the war having drawn millions of Ukrainians abroad, this bill is a significant move towards greater international ties and recognition of the rights of ethnic Ukrainians. As of 2025, there are 6.8 million Ukrainian refugees and asylum-seekers remaining abroad, according to U.N. data.
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