Ukraine grants the status of Ukrainian abroad to persons of Ukrainian origin: how to get it

Ukraine grants the special status of Ukrainian abroad to persons of Ukrainian origin who live outside the country. This document contributes to the preservation of national consciousness, maintains a connection with the homeland and provides a number of privileges. In accordance with Article 12 of the Constitution of Ukraine, the state ensures the satisfaction of the national, cultural and linguistic needs of Ukrainians abroad.

The status of a Ukrainian abroad provides unique opportunities for persons of Ukrainian origin living outside of Ukraine. It allows not only to preserve cultural identity, but also to gain access to education, easier entry into Ukraine and the possibility of immigration.

Who can get the status of a Ukrainian abroad?

An overseas Ukrainian is a person who is a citizen of another state or a stateless person, but has Ukrainian ethnic origin or is of Ukrainian origin. It is important to note that this status can be acquired only by persons who have reached the age of 16 and are not citizens of Ukraine.

Ukrainian ethnic origin means the belonging of a person or his ancestors to the Ukrainian nation and its recognition of Ukraine as the homeland of his ethnic origin.

Basic principles of cooperation with Ukrainians abroad

Ukraine supports cooperation with Ukrainians abroad based on several basic principles:

1. Recognition and freedom of every person from birth. Ukraine recognizes the rights and freedoms of Ukrainians abroad, which are inalienable for any person.
2. Support and resolution of the problems of formation and consolidation of the Ukrainian nation. Ukraine promotes the unification of Ukrainians abroad in order to preserve national identity and cultural heritage.
3. Meeting the national, cultural and linguistic needs of Ukrainians abroad. Ukraine provides the opportunity to study in the Ukrainian language and preserve Ukrainian culture abroad.
4. Mutual enrichment of spiritual and material culture. Cooperation with Ukrainians abroad promotes the exchange of cultural values ​​between Ukraine and the world.
5. Cooperation with other states to ensure the rights and freedoms of Ukrainians abroad. Ukraine works with other countries to ensure the rights of Ukrainians living abroad, based on generally recognized principles and norms of international law.
6. Parity in ensuring the rights and needs of Ukrainians abroad and national minorities of Ukraine. Ukraine strives for equal treatment of Ukrainians abroad in other countries and national minorities in Ukraine.

What gives the status of a Ukrainian abroad?

The certificate of a foreign Ukrainian is issued for 10 years and confirms the relevant status, although it does not replace a passport. Recipients of the status have several significant advantages:

1. Education. The possibility of obtaining higher education in Ukraine at the expense of the state budget within the limits of the established quotas.
2. Free visas. The right to obtain a free multiple-entry visa for visiting Ukraine without providing a corresponding invitation valid for 5 years (for citizens of countries with which Ukraine has a visa regime).
3. Immigration. The possibility of immigrating to Ukraine for permanent residence without taking into account immigration quotas, but subject to obtaining an immigration permit in accordance with the procedure established by law. At the same time, the family of a Ukrainian abroad also has the right to immigrate to the country.

A Ukrainian abroad, staying in Ukraine on legal grounds, enjoys the same rights and freedoms, and bears the same obligations as citizens of Ukraine, with the exception of those established by the Constitution and laws of Ukraine.

How to get the status of a foreign Ukrainian

The process of obtaining the status of a Ukrainian abroad is not simple and includes confirmation of Ukrainian ethnic origin and submission of relevant documents. This usually requires time and the involvement of various government agencies in the process.

If you want to obtain the appropriate status or have questions about the preparation of documents, contact lawyers or specialized organizations that provide qualified consultations and full legal support for foreigners in Ukraine. With their help, you will be able to go through all the necessary procedures quickly and without problems.

Thus, the status of a Ukrainian abroad is an important tool for maintaining ties between Ukraine and its diaspora. It provides opportunities for preserving national identity, cultural exchange and facilitates legal procedures for those who wish to return to their homeland or simply maintain close ties with Ukraine.