Ukrainians Without Passports Get Streamlined Path to Return Home

New Pilot Program for Ukrainians Lacking Passports

According to ХВИЛЯ: Ukraine's government has approved a pilot initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, that lets Ukrainians born in temporarily occupied territories-who never held Ukrainian passports-obtain a special identity certificate for returning home at foreign diplomatic missions. This change aims to ease the process for citizens stranded abroad.

Under the new rules, those who never had a Ukrainian passport can now apply at embassies and consulates for a return certificate. Issuing this document is free of charge, and once obtained, it allows the holder to enter Ukraine without obstacles. Identity verification has also been simplified: it can now be done based on testimony from a legally capable family member who is a Ukrainian citizen, or remotely via video link.

Diplomatic Missions Involved

The pilot project includes Ukrainian embassies in:

• Belarus
• Georgia
• Armenia
• Kazakhstan
• Turkey

Additionally, consulates general in Istanbul and Antalya are participating.

'From now on, Ukrainians born in temporarily occupied territory who have never held Ukrainian passports can contact our embassies and consulates to get a personal certificate for returning to Ukraine. The certificate can be obtained free of charge,' stated Andrii Sybiha.

This initiative marks a significant step in supporting Ukrainians who have faced hardships due to the temporary occupation of their homeland, underscoring the state's commitment to facilitating their return. Simplifying the return process could greatly ease the lives of many who have lost touch with their country, helping them reconnect with Ukrainian society. It may also bolster social stability and security in Ukraine, as bringing citizens back is vital for restoring territorial integrity and national identity.

As Ukraine implements this pilot program to assist its citizens abroad, it is important to note the broader context of the situation. Recent changes in EU regulations have led to stricter rules that could result in mass repatriations of Ukrainians. Understanding these evolving policies is crucial for those affected. For more details on how these new regulations impact Ukrainians in Europe, see our coverage on EU nations tightening return policies.