Multiple citizenship as a bridge between Ukraine and the diaspora: a new law and its role in addressing the demographic crisis

Ukraine has officially allowed multiple citizenship for people of Ukrainian origin. Find out how the new law will help maintain ties with the diaspora, respond to demographic challenges, and encourage Ukrainians abroad to return home

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In June 2025, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted Law No. 11469, which for the first time in the history of independent Ukraine officially recognizes the possibility of multiple citizenship for certain categories of persons. In July, Volodymyr Zelensky signed this law. This decision is a strategic step in changing the paradigm of state policy towards Ukrainians abroad and, at the same time, an attempt to respond to one of the most pressing problems of our time: the demographic crisis. In this article, we will examine the legal, social, and political aspects of the relationship between multiple citizenship, the diaspora, and issues of restoring the human potential of the state.

For more details on the main provisions of the law on multiple citizenship and the countries that may be included in the list in the first round, please refer to our previous article.

The demographic situation in Ukraine: a legal challenge

According to the UN and the State Statistics Service, Ukraine's population has declined from 52 million (1991) to about 32 million (2025) over the past 30 years—a drop of almost 40%. War, labor migration, an aging population, and low birth rates have created a deep demographic crisis with legal consequences:

● a decline in the number of people of working age – a challenge for labor legislation;

● understaffing of the army – a factor in national security;

● pressure on the pension system – a challenge for social law.

In this situation, restoring ties with millions of ethnic Ukrainians abroad has become not only a political gesture, but a legal necessity and a tool for stabilising the demographic situation.

Legal status of the Ukrainian diaspora: what has changed with the new law

Before the law was passed: Ukraine did not officially recognize multiple citizenship. Ukrainians who emigrated and obtained another citizenship lost their Ukrainian citizenship de jure.

Restoring Ukrainian citizenship required formal renunciation of another citizenship—a complex, lengthy, and often impossible procedure.

After the law was passed: Persons of Ukrainian origin can acquire Ukrainian citizenship without losing their existing citizenship. They only need to submit a statement of intent to retain their other citizenship, without any additional bureaucratic barriers.

Accordingly, the law allows the diaspora to:

● officially work in Ukraine;

● invest and purchase real estate without restrictions;

● participate in public life;

● and, in the future, vote in elections.

This creates the conditions for the “legal return” of millions of Ukrainians scattered around the world.

The Ukrainian diaspora as a demographic reserve

According to estimates by the World Congress of Ukrainians, there are over 20 million people of Ukrainian origin living around the world. The largest communities are in Canada, the US, Poland, Brazil, Argentina, and Australia. A significant portion of them:

● retain their Ukrainian identity;

● are interested in maintaining ties with their homeland;

● are willing to invest, start businesses, and share their experience in areas such as IT, medicine, law, and science.

Thus, multiple citizenship, legalized at the legislative level, can transform the diaspora from emotional support into a practical resource for the country's development. The adoption of the new law opens up real opportunities for Ukraine:

● to physically return part of the diaspora;

● to attract investment;

● to revitalize cultural, economic, and educational ties;

● to replenish the labor market with skilled professionals.

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How dual citizenship works in other countries: international experience

Ukraine is not the only country that uses multiple citizenship to strengthen ties with the diaspora. The experience of other countries demonstrates the effectiveness of such a policy:

● Israel: The Law of Return allows persons of Jewish origin to automatically acquire citizenship – analogous to the Ukrainian diaspora.

● Ireland: Citizenship by descent can be granted to second and third generations.

● Italy: The principle of “ius sanguinis” (or citizenship by blood) allows descendants to obtain citizenship without generational restrictions – the diaspora is actively involved in cultural and economic life.

Ukraine is effectively moving in the same direction, but taking into account its security and political realities.

Challenges and next steps for implementing the reform

Despite the importance of the law, the effective implementation of multiple citizenship requires:

1. Develop a clear mechanism for applying for, reviewing, and granting citizenship;

2. Harmonize the provisions of the law with the Constitution of Ukraine, which currently does not provide for dual citizenship;

3. Launch information campaigns through consulates, embassies, and diaspora organizations to explain the new opportunities;

4. Ensure transparency and legality of all procedures.

Legal support for the diaspora and foreigners: how Visit Ukraine can help

Millions of people of Ukrainian origin are currently in legal limbo regarding the possibility of obtaining Ukrainian citizenship. That is why the team of migration lawyers at Visit Ukraine offers:

● individual consultations on the legal grounds for acquiring citizenship;

● assistance in submitting an application to the migration service;

● assistance with translation and notarization of documents;

● support in communicating with Ukrainian consulates abroad.

Our lawyers will help you navigate the new legislation, minimize risks, and make the most of new opportunities to legalize your connection with Ukraine.

Contact us for a consultation to get answers to all your questions!

We remind you! The introduction of multiple citizenship in Ukraine opens up new opportunities for Ukrainians and foreigners, but at the same time, the changes carry a number of risks. Read more about the advantages, disadvantages, and legislative changes in Ukraine related to multiple citizenship.

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

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