Foreigners who are serving or have served in the Ukrainian army have the
right to apply for Ukrainian citizenship.
Requirements:
• Recognize the Constitution and laws of Ukraine• Pass exams on the basics of the Constitution, history, and the Ukrainian language within 2 years from the date of citizenship acquisition (registration for exams is available at the link) • Have lawful sources of income (e.g., military monetary compensation)• Reside continuously in Ukraine on lawful grounds for a certain period, i.e. five years
For foreigners serving in the army, reduced residency requirements apply:
• One year of continuous service during martial law• Three years of continuous service in peacetime
For foreigners declared unfit due to injury or awarded state honors, the residency requirement does not apply.
Usually, obtaining Ukrainian citizenship requires renouncing previous citizenship. However, for certain categories, it is sufficient to submit a declaration renouncing foreign citizenship – a simpler and more accessible option. This applies to:
• Current and former service members of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) or the National Guard of Ukraine (NGU), including those awarded state honors of Ukraine, as well as their spouses, children, and parents• Members of the families of service members who died while performing combat duties• Refugees and persons granted asylum in Ukraine• Persons who have suffered political persecution in the aggressor country• Persons who have outstanding merits to Ukraine or represent a national interest for it, as well as their spouses and children
To submit an application for citizenship:
1. You must personally apply to the territorial office of the State Migration Service (SMS); see the addresses here 2. Prepare a set of documents:
• 3 photographs sized 35 × 45 mm• A declaration renouncing foreign citizenship and recognizing oneself solely as a citizen of Ukraine (except for those who have taken an obligation to terminate foreign citizenship), or a declaration of statelessness (for stateless persons)• A copy of the military service contract, a copy of the military ID, and a certificate from the place of service• A document confirming continuous legal residence in Ukraine for the required period (copy of the military ID and passport)• A commitment to take exams on the basics of the Constitution of Ukraine, Ukrainian history, and to demonstrate proficiency in the official language In this case, the exams must be passed within two years
The SMS reviews the documents, and the case is forwarded to the Presidential Commission. After the Presidential Decree is signed, the foreigner receives a Ukrainian passport.
