Citizenship by Investment Options in Ukraine

1. What is the process of obtaining citizenship by investment in Ukraine?


The process of obtaining citizenship by investment in Ukraine typically involves the following steps:

1. Determine eligibility: Before beginning the application process, it is important to check if you meet the eligibility criteria for citizenship by investment in Ukraine. This includes having a clean criminal record, investing the required amount of money, and fulfilling any other specific requirements set by the government.

2. Choose an approved investment option: Ukraine currently offers three approved investment options for obtaining citizenship – real estate investment, business investment, and government bonds. You will need to select one of these options based on your preferences and budget.

3. Prepare documents: You will need to gather all necessary documents for your application, including proof of identification, proof of funds, and any other relevant certificates or paperwork. These documents may need to be translated into Ukrainian and certified.

4. Apply for residency: Before applying for citizenship, you must first obtain temporary or permanent residency in Ukraine. This can be done by either purchasing real estate in Ukraine or starting/expanding a business in the country.

5. Invest in the chosen option: Once your residency is obtained, you will need to make the required investment as per your chosen option. This may involve transferring funds to a Ukrainian bank account or purchasing property/business shares.

6. Submit citizenship application: After completing all necessary investments and fulfilling any other requirements set by the government, you can then submit your application for Ukrainian citizenship.

7. Wait for approval: The processing time for citizenship applications can vary but typically takes 6-12 months from submission.

8. Take oaths and renounce previous citizenship: If your application is approved, you will be required to take an oath of allegiance before a court and renounce your previous citizenship (if applicable).

9.Execute passport formalities: After taking oaths and renouncing previous citizenship (if applicable), you can then obtain your new Ukrainian passport.

It is recommended to seek assistance from a qualified lawyer or immigration specialist who can guide you through the process and ensure all steps are completed accurately and efficiently.

2. What are the main benefits of obtaining citizenship through investment in Ukraine?


1) Visa-free travel: The Ukrainian passport allows for visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 120 countries, including the European Union, Japan, and Canada.

2) Business opportunities: As a citizen of Ukraine, you will have access to one of the fastest growing economies in Europe, which offers attractive business opportunities.

3) Residency and immigration benefits: Citizenship can be obtained through investment in Ukraine after residing in the country for only three years, whereas traditional naturalization requires five years of residency. This shorter timeframe can be beneficial for those looking to establish a permanent residence quickly.

4) Education and healthcare benefits: Citizens have access to free education and healthcare in Ukraine.

5) Property ownership: As a citizen of Ukraine, you will have the right to own property in the country without any restrictions.

6) Tax benefits: Ukrainian citizens are only subject to personal income tax on income earned in Ukraine. Foreign income is not taxed.

7) Dual citizenship: Ukraine allows dual citizenship, so obtaining Ukrainian citizenship will not require you to renounce your current citizenship.

8) Family benefits: Obtaining Ukrainian citizenship can also extend to immediate family members such as spouse and children under 18 years old.

9) EU association agreement: As an associated member of the European Union (not a full member), Ukraine has signed an association agreement with the EU which allows its citizens certain privileges in trade and education within EU countries.

10) Stability and security: As a citizen of Ukraine, you will have protection from the government and other organizations within the country.

3. How much is the minimum required investment for citizenship in Ukraine?


The minimum required investment for citizenship in Ukraine is 100,000 USD.

4. Are there any residency requirements for citizenship through investment in Ukraine?

There are no specific residency requirements for citizenship through investment in Ukraine. However, applicants must provide proof of their continuous legal residence in the country for at least five years prior to the submission of their citizenship application. This can be demonstrated through tax returns, employment records, or other documents.

5. What types of investments are accepted for citizenship in Ukraine?


According to the Ukrainian Citizenship Act, the following types of investments are accepted for citizenship in Ukraine:

1. Direct investment: This includes the creation or acquisition of a business or enterprise in Ukraine with capital contributions equaling at least $100,000.

2. Investment in government bonds: The purchase of Ukrainian government bonds with a minimum value of $100,000 is also considered an eligible investment for citizenship.

3. Property investment: The purchase of real estate in Ukraine with a minimum value of $100,000 is accepted as an eligible investment for citizenship.

4. Bank deposit: A bank deposit with a Ukrainian bank in the amount of at least $100,000 is considered an accepted investment for citizenship.

5. Investment in approved projects: Investments in certain national projects approved by the Ukrainian government can also be considered as eligible investments for citizenship.

6. Joint venture or partnership: Investing at least $100,000 as a joint venture or partnership with a Ukrainian citizen or legal entity that employs 10 or more people can also be considered for citizenship.

7. Charitable donations: Donations to charitable organizations registered in Ukraine and recognized by the government may also count towards the required investment amount for citizenship.

It should be noted that all investments must be made legally and documented properly according to Ukrainian laws and regulations.

6. Is dual citizenship allowed in Ukraine?

Yes, dual citizenship is generally allowed in Ukraine. However, there are some restrictions and regulations that must be followed. For example, Ukrainian citizens who acquire another citizenship must inform the authorities within two years and obtain permission to keep their Ukrainian citizenship. Additionally, Ukrainians who have held permanent residency or citizenship in certain countries (such as Russia or Belarus) may be restricted from holding dual citizenship due to political tensions between the two countries. It is advisable to consult with the appropriate authorities in both countries before attempting to hold dual citizenship.

7. Are there any language or cultural requirements for obtaining citizenship through investment in Ukraine?


Yes, there are language and cultural requirements for obtaining citizenship through investment in Ukraine. Applicants are required to have an intermediate level of proficiency in Ukrainian language, as well as demonstrate knowledge of Ukrainian history, culture, and customs. This can be done through passing a language exam and attending a mandatory cultural orientation program. Additionally, applicants must pledge allegiance to Ukraine and renounce their previous citizenship if it is not permitted by Ukrainian law to hold dual citizenship.

8. Do I need to have a job offer or business plan to qualify for citizenship by investment in Ukraine?

No, you do not need to have a job offer or business plan to qualify for citizenship by investment in Ukraine. However, you will need to make an investment in the country, meet certain financial requirements, and pass a background check. Having a job offer or business plan may strengthen your application and show that you have ties to the country.

9. Can my family members also obtain citizenship through my investment in Ukraine?


No, your family members cannot obtain citizenship through your investment in Ukraine. Each person must apply for citizenship individually and meet the eligibility requirements. However, if they are listed as dependents on your application, they may be able to obtain citizenship through you once you have been granted Ukrainian citizenship.

10. What is the timeline for obtaining citizenship by investment in Ukraine?


The timeline for obtaining citizenship by investment in Ukraine can vary, but on average it takes anywhere from 2-4 months. The exact timeline will depend on the specific requirements and processing times of the chosen investment program, as well as individual factors such as language proficiency and document preparation. It is important to consult with a qualified immigration lawyer to accurately assess the expected timeline for your particular situation.

11. Can I invest in any industry or sector for citizenship purposes in Ukraine?


There is no specific industry or sector that is required for investment purposes for obtaining citizenship in Ukraine. However, the investment must be made in accordance with the laws and regulations of Ukraine and contribute to the economic development of the country. Investments in industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and IT are generally encouraged by the Ukrainian government.

12. Is there a limit on the number of people granted citizenship by investment each year in Ukraine?


There is not a set limit on the number of people granted citizenship by investment in Ukraine each year. The Ukrainian government assesses each application on a case-by-case basis and there is no maximum number of individuals that can be granted citizenship through this route. However, the process may be more competitive at times and applications may be subject to stricter criteria depending on the current political and economic climate in Ukraine.

13. What level of due diligence is conducted when applying for citizenship through investment in Ukraine?


The level of due diligence conducted when applying for citizenship through investment in Ukraine is quite extensive. The Ukrainian government has strict regulations and requirements for those seeking citizenship through this route.

Some of the measures that are typically taken during the due diligence process include:

1. Collecting personal information: The first step in the due diligence process is to collect detailed personal information from the applicant, such as their name, date and place of birth, nationality, passport details, etc.

2. Criminal record check: The applicant’s criminal record is thoroughly checked in all countries where they have lived for a certain period of time. This is to ensure that they have not been involved in any criminal activities that would make them ineligible for citizenship.

3. Source of funds verification: One of the main requirements for obtaining citizenship through investment in Ukraine is to prove that the funds used to make the investment are legal and obtained through legitimate sources. Therefore, a thorough investigation into the source of these funds will be carried out.

4. Business background check: If the applicant owns a business or has had any significant involvement in businesses, their business background will be thoroughly investigated to ensure it is legitimate and financially stable.

5. Financial status check: The applicant’s financial status will also be checked to ensure they have sufficient funds to support themselves and their family in Ukraine without relying on public assistance.

6. Health screening: Applicants are required to undergo a medical examination to ensure they do not have any serious health conditions that would make them ineligible for citizenship.

Overall, the level of due diligence conducted during the application process aims to verify the authenticity and eligibility of the applicant as well as protect the integrity of Ukraine’s citizenship program.

14. Are children born to citizens through investment automatically granted citizenship?


No, children born to citizens through investment are not automatically granted citizenship. Their eligibility for citizenship would depend on the laws and regulations of the country in which they were born and their parents’ eligibility for granting citizenship through investment.

15. Are there any restrictions on which countries can apply for citizenship by investment in Ukraine?


Yes, only citizens of non-Sanctioned countries can apply for citizenship by investment in Ukraine. This means that citizens of countries facing international sanctions or conflicts, such as North Korea or Syria, cannot apply for Ukrainian citizenship through this program. Additionally, individuals who have been declared persona non grata by the Ukrainian government are also ineligible to apply.

16. Does receiving citizenship through investment grant me voting rights and access to government services?

Yes, upon receiving citizenship through investment, you may be granted voting rights and have access to government services. This will depend on the laws and regulations of the specific country of citizenship you are granted.

In some countries, citizenship obtained through investment may also require additional requirements or responsibilities, such as maintaining a certain level of residence or involvement in the country’s economy.

It is important to thoroughly research the specific requirements and benefits associated with receiving citizenship through investment in your desired country before making any decisions.

17. Is it possible to lose my newly acquired citizen status if I fail to maintain my initial investment?


It is possible to lose your citizenship status if you fail to maintain your initial investment, depending on the laws and regulations of the country where you acquired citizenship. Some countries have specific requirements for maintaining citizenship status, which may include maintaining a certain level of investment or annual income. If you fail to meet these requirements, your citizenship status may be revoked. It is important to thoroughly research the rules and regulations of your chosen country before making any investment decisions.

18. Can I include dependents such as parents or siblings on my application for citizenship by investment in Ukraine?


No, the citizenship by investment program in Ukraine only allows for the applicant’s spouse and children under the age of 18 to be included on the application. Parents or siblings cannot be included as dependents.

19. Does holding another passport affect my eligibility for gaining full citizen status through investing in Ukraine?

It depends on the laws and regulations of the country where you hold another passport. Some countries have restrictions on dual citizenship, while others allow it. It is important to research the laws of both countries before applying for full citizen status through investment in Ukraine.

20. Are there any tax implications associated with gaining economic residency and/or full nationality through investing in Ukraine?


There may be tax implications, depending on the individual’s specific situation and the tax laws of their home country. It is recommended to consult with a tax professional for personalized advice.