The status of a foreign Ukrainian: what is it, who can get it and what are its advantages

The document for persons of Ukrainian origin is called the “status of a foreign Ukrainian”. Find out what this document is and what benefits it has

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In Ukraine, there is a special document for persons of Ukrainian origin - it is called “status of a foreign Ukrainian”. We tell you what kind of document it is and what its advantages are.

 What is the "status of a foreign Ukrainian"?

A certificate issued by the National Commission to citizens of another state or stateless persons, as well as ethnic Ukrainians or persons of Ukrainian origin.

The certificate of a Ukrainian living abroad confirms the relevant status, but does not replace a passport. Such a document is issued for 10 years, with subsequent re-registration. It is worth noting that the status can be acquired only by persons who have already reached the age of 16 and are not citizens of Ukraine.

When is a foreign Ukrainian certificate more advantageous than a residence permit in Ukraine — we explain here.

What advantages can a person with a foreign Ukrainian ID card count on?

- the possibility of obtaining higher education at the expense of the state budget of Ukraine within the limits of the established study quotas;

- the right to obtain a free multiple-entry visa for visiting Ukraine without providing a corresponding invitation valid for 5 years (for citizens of countries with which Ukraine has a visa regime);

- the possibility to immigrate to Ukraine for permanent residence, subject to obtaining an immigration permit for permanent residence outside the immigration quotas in accordance with the procedure established by law.

It is worth noting that, being in Ukraine on legal grounds, a Ukrainian abroad enjoys the same rights and freedoms, as well as bears the same obligations as a citizen of Ukraine, with the exception established by the Constitution, laws of Ukraine or international treaties, consent to the obligation the validity of which is granted by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine.

Free education at Ukrainian universities for Ukrainians living abroad

This is implemented:

- within the quotas established for the admission of foreign Ukrainians to study at higher education institutions of Ukraine of the MES system (in other higher education institutions (except for medical ones) in agreement with the ministries in whose management system such higher education institutions are located);

- admission to study within quotas for foreign Ukrainians is carried out based on the results of an interview on the subjects specified in the rules of admission to a higher educational institution;

- in accordance with the international agreement on cooperation in the field of education with the country of which the foreign Ukrainian is a citizen. The selection of foreign Ukrainians to study at Ukrainian universities is carried out by the relevant ministry of the country of permanent residence of the foreign Ukrainian;

- enrollment in studies is carried out on the basis of the direction of the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine.

Which foreigners do not need a work permit in Ukraine — we explain at the link.

How to get the "status of a foreign Ukrainian"?

Citizens who want to obtain a certificate of a foreign Ukrainian must submit a written application to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the representative office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the territory of Ukraine. If you are abroad, the application must be submitted to a foreign diplomatic institution of Ukraine.

How to obtain a permit to immigrate to Ukraine — read here.

Documents required to acquire the status:

• a passport document or a document that replaces it;

• copies of documents certifying Ukrainian ethnic origin or origin from Ukraine (certificate or other documents on the birth of a person or his relatives, documents confirming the fact of a person's residence on the territory of Ukraine and, if necessary, other documents);

• two color photos measuring 30 x 40 mm;

• a receipt for payment by the applicant for services related to the registration and issuance of the certificate.

Are you planning to apply for foreign Ukrainian status or do you have questions about documents, procedures or legal grounds for staying in Ukraine?

The lawyers at Visit Ukraine will help you understand the requirements, prepare the necessary paperwork and accompany you every step of the way to ensure you get the result you want without mistakes or unnecessary bureaucracy.

Don't put off important decisions — book a consultation right now and get professional legal support!

We will remind you! All citizens, including foreigners, must insure their cars in Ukraine. How foreigners can insure their cars in Ukraine — find out by following the link.

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