Ukraine to Allow Citizenship for Foreigners Currently Serving in the Ukrainian Armed Forces

The Ukrainian Parliament has passed a new law that allows citizenship to be granted to foreign nationals currently defending Ukraine against Russian aggression, establishing a legal framework for the process.

Law No. 9585 establishes a legal framework for granting citizenship to foreigners and stateless persons who have served in the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The legislation outlines a tiered process, commencing with temporary residence permits, progressing to immigration permits, and culminating in the conferral of Ukrainian citizenship.

Previously, Ukrainian legislation stipulated that foreign soldiers must serve until the war’s end to qualify for Ukrainian citizenship. Starting from August 20, foreign volunteers who already joined the ranks of the Ukrainian International Legion, responding to President Zelenskyy’s call to fight to defend Ukraine’s sovereignty, will have an opportunity to apply for Ukrainian citizenship.