Dual Citizenship from 2026: No Exemption from Military Mobilization.

Dual Citizenship and Military Service: New Rules for Ukrainians

According to Novyny.live: Starting January 16, 2026, Ukrainians will be permitted to obtain citizenship of other countries remotely, provided those nations are on a special government-approved list. This policy change comes as Ukraine continues to navigate the legal complexities of a nation at war. However, individuals holding dual citizenship will still be subject to military mobilization on the same terms as other citizens. This is mandated by Article 4 of the Ukrainian Constitution, which enshrines the principle of single citizenship.

All Ukrainian citizens eligible for military service can be called up during mobilization, regardless of whether they hold a second passport. As expert Maryna Ivina notes,

"Possession of a foreign passport does not affect the obligation to serve in the army and does not grant an exemption from mobilization."

Furthermore, Maryna Ivina emphasized that a person retains their status as a Ukrainian citizen unless they have formally renounced it. This requires submitting an application for citizenship termination, securing approval from the President of Ukraine, and the issuance of a corresponding decree. Without completing this process, individuals with foreign passports cannot avoid mobilization.

The Critical Need for Legal Awareness

What other details are important to note? Evading mobilization, including by using a foreign passport to travel abroad, may be classified as an administrative or criminal offense. This is a crucial consideration for those contemplating obtaining a second citizenship, as the legal responsibility to serve remains firmly in place.

Therefore, the issue of dual citizenship in Ukraine does not relieve individuals of their military obligations. Ukrainians who obtain foreign passports must be aware of the potential consequences related to mobilization.

The introduction of a simplified procedure for acquiring a second citizenship could have a significant societal impact, particularly given the ongoing conflict. However, by maintaining military service obligations, the new rule does not cancel an individual's duty to the state. This may create complex situations for those wishing to hold dual citizenship and underscores the vital importance of legal literacy regarding rights and responsibilities under these new legislative changes.