Ukraine's New Dual Citizenship Law and Streamlined Procedures for Partner Nations

State Migration Service of Ukraine Holds Key Meeting

According to Державна міграційна служба: An expanded meeting of the State Migration Service of Ukraine's board took place on February 20, 2026, to review the agency's performance in 2025. A landmark achievement was the adoption of new legislation on dual citizenship, a significant step for the nation. Chaired by SMS Head Natalia Naumenko, the meeting also covered simplified procedures for citizens of partner countries and the development of information systems.

Simplified Procedures for Citizens of Partner Countries

Specifically, in 2025, procedures were streamlined for citizens of the following nations:

• Canada
• Germany
• Poland
• Czechia
• United States

This decision resulted from collaboration between the State Migration Service and the Ukrainian Parliament's Committee on Human Rights, De-occupation, and Reintegration of Temporarily Occupied Territories. The committee's chairman, Andrii Zadorozhnyi, highlighted the importance of this productive cooperation in developing and passing the laws.

Furthermore, the board discussed expanding the grounds for stripping citizenship from individuals who pose a threat to national security. Serhii Ionushas, head of the Parliamentary Committee on Law Enforcement, emphasized that dual citizenship carries legal consequences, including in the realm of criminal liability.

The meeting also addressed the development and security of the SMS's information systems, financial discipline, and media coverage of the service's activities. In 2025, the SMS implemented projects including the 'Faces of SMS' campaign and coverage of mobile groups' work in de-occupied territories.

These reforms mark a pivotal phase in the evolution of Ukraine's migration policy as the country adapts to contemporary challenges while ensuring a proper level of security. The changes align with broader efforts to modernize Ukraine's legal framework and strengthen international ties following the full-scale invasion.

The adoption of dual citizenship legislation is part of a wider reform of Ukraine's migration policy aimed at aligning with international standards. Simplifying procedures for citizens of partner nations also reflects Ukraine's drive to strengthen international connections and attract investment. These steps may help improve Ukraine's global image and open new avenues for cooperation.