Moldovan Citizens Get Faster Track to Ukrainian Citizenship: Here’s What’s Changing.

Simplified Path to Citizenship Now Open for Moldovans

According to Espreso.tv: Ukraine has added the Republic of Moldova to its list of countries whose citizens can access a streamlined naturalization process. Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko explained that this decision makes sense given the shared border, both nations’ path toward European integration, and their mutual backing in the face of Russian aggression. For English-speaking readers, this move underscores Kyiv’s push to strengthen ties with neighboring countries amid ongoing regional instability.

To qualify, applicants must pass exams on the Ukrainian language, the Constitution, and Ukraine’s history—all taken within Ukraine. The government is also working on introducing remote testing to make the process more accessible for those who need it.

Yuliia Svyrydenko noted that this step also recognizes the large Ukrainian community living in Moldova and the need to simplify their access to Ukrainian citizenship.

Why This Matters for Ukraine’s Strategy

Extending the simplified citizenship mechanism to Moldovans reflects Ukraine’s broader strategic interests in regional security and closer ties with European institutions. It also signals the growing importance of cooperation between Ukraine and Moldova as they face common challenges, particularly Russian aggression.

Streamlining the citizenship process could play a key role in strengthening bilateral relations and supporting the Ukrainian diaspora in Moldova.