Russia: Simplified Procedure for Ukrainians Applying for Russian Citizenship

A Presidential Order that simplifies the procedure for Ukrainian citizens seeking Russian citizenship has entered into force. The order allows Ukrainian citizens (including those permanently resident in the Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, Luhansk and Donetsk regions) to apply for Russian citizenship without needing to comply with the usual conditions of a residence period in Russia, having a source of income in Russia, or having to pass a Russian language test. The processing period for obtaining Russian citizenship for these individuals has been reduced to a maximum period of three months from the date of filing, as opposed to the usual 12 months for others.