Ways to get the citizenship in Ukraine in 2023

Ukraine is a country located in Eastern Europe that offers a wide range of opportunities for individuals looking to settle and work in the country. Getting Ukrainian citizenship is a great way to enjoy the benefits of living and working in this country. If you're interested in becoming a Ukrainian citizen, here are some ways you can do it in 2023.

1. Naturalization

One of the most common ways to get Ukrainian citizenship is through naturalization. This process involves living in Ukraine for at least five years and meeting certain requirements, including speaking Ukrainian and passing a language test, having no criminal record, and passing a citizenship exam. If you meet all the requirements, you can apply for citizenship and get it after completing the necessary paperwork and going through the naturalization process.

2. Marriage to a Ukrainian citizen

If you're married to a Ukrainian citizen, you can apply for citizenship after living in Ukraine for two years. You'll need to meet the same requirements as someone going through naturalization, including speaking Ukrainian and passing a language test, having no criminal record, and passing a citizenship exam. After two years, you can apply for citizenship and get it if you meet all the requirements.

3. Investment

Another way to get Ukrainian citizenship is by making an investment in the country. In 2023, the Ukrainian government is expected to introduce new rules for foreign investors that will make it easier to get citizenship. Under the new rules, foreign investors who make a substantial investment in Ukraine can apply for citizenship after just three years of living in the country. The investment could be in the form of buying real estate, setting up a business, or investing in government bonds.

4. Ancestry

If you have Ukrainian ancestry, you may be able to get citizenship by descent. This means that if one of your parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents was a Ukrainian citizen, you may be eligible for citizenship. You'll need to provide proof of your ancestry, such as a birth certificate or passport, and go through the necessary paperwork to apply for citizenship.

5. Special circumstances

In some cases, individuals can apply for Ukrainian citizenship under special circumstances. For example, if you're a refugee or stateless person, you may be able to get citizenship if you meet certain requirements. Similarly, if you're a highly skilled worker in a particular field, you may be able to get citizenship if you're offered a job in Ukraine that requires your skills.

Related article: Moving to Ukraine through relatives: what kind of residence permit can I get?

Which way is the easiest and fastest?

Each of the ways to obtain Ukrainian citizenship has its own requirements and timelines, and the ease and speed of the process may vary depending on individual circumstances.

However, some of the ways to obtain Ukrainian citizenship may be considered easier or faster than others. For example, if you are married to a Ukrainian citizen and have been living in Ukraine for two years, you may be able to apply for citizenship and get it relatively quickly. Similarly, if you have Ukrainian ancestry and can provide the necessary documentation to prove it, you may be able to apply for citizenship by descent without having to meet the language or residency requirements.

On the other hand, the naturalization process can take longer, as it requires at least five years of continuous residency in Ukraine, passing language and citizenship exams, and meeting other criteria. The investment option may also require a significant financial commitment, which may not be feasible for everyone.

It's important to note that the speed and ease of obtaining Ukrainian citizenship should not be the only factors considered. Each option has its own benefits and drawbacks, and it's important to carefully evaluate your personal situation and consult with a legal professional before making a decision.

Related article: How can I recover my previously lost Ukrainian citizenship? Israeli and US citizens

How to calculate the risks and possibilities of obtaining citizenship?

When considering obtaining citizenship in a foreign country, it is important to carefully evaluate the risks and possibilities associated with each option. Here are some key factors to consider when calculating the risks and possibilities of obtaining Ukrainian citizenship:

1. Legal requirements: The first step in evaluating the risks and possibilities of obtaining Ukrainian citizenship is to review the legal requirements for each option. This includes understanding the residency requirements, language proficiency requirements, and any other criteria that must be met.

2. Processing times: The processing times for each option can vary, so it's important to understand how long it will take to obtain citizenship. This information can help you plan for the move and understand the timeline for obtaining citizenship.

3. Financial requirements: Depending on the option chosen, there may be financial requirements that need to be considered. For example, the investment option may require a significant financial investment in the country.

4. Political stability: It's important to evaluate the political stability of the country before deciding to obtain citizenship. Instability can affect the country's economy, job market, and social welfare, which could impact your decision to relocate and obtain citizenship.

5. Cultural differences: Understanding the cultural differences in Ukraine is essential to deciding if the country is the right fit for you. It's important to research and consider cultural norms, customs, and traditions, and evaluate whether they align with your personal beliefs and values.

6. Personal circumstances: Finally, it's important to evaluate your personal circumstances, such as your age, health, family status, and professional goals. These factors can affect your ability to relocate and obtain citizenship, and can help you determine which option is best for you.

By considering these factors and conducting thorough research, you can calculate the risks and possibilities associated with obtaining Ukrainian citizenship and make an informed decision that aligns with your personal circumstances and goals. It's also important to seek advice from legal professionals and other experts who can provide guidance and support throughout the process.

For example, today, the most difficult option for obtaining citizenship is considered to be obtaining citizenship after living in Ukraine for 5 years, that is, on the basis of permanent residence. Such a procedure requires much more thorough preparation and puts forward more conditions than, for example, when obtaining citizenship based on birth in Ukraine. And the review itself takes 3-4 years in practice.

Therefore, if you are planning your future in Ukraine, start by consulting with our lawyers. You will clearly understand your chances of obtaining Ukrainian citizenship, the timing and stages of the procedure.