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Publication date: 08.05.2024
Lawyer
Romania is a wonderful European country with a rich culture, attractive resorts and a promising economy. Obtaining Romanian citizenship opens many opportunities for free movement, work or business within the European Union. There are several ways for Ukrainians to acquire Romanian citizenship, let's consider them in more detail.
Acquisition of citizenship by roots (repatriation)
This path is available to persons who can document their Romanian origin. This includes the inhabitants of the historical Romanian territories: Bessarabia, Northern Bukovina, Duchy of Moldova and other regions. Your ancestors could have emigrated from these lands at different times.
In order to obtain Romanian citizenship by roots, you need to collect a set of documents proving your origin. Most often, register books, birth/marriage certificates, autobiographies of ancestors, etc. are submitted. You should prepare a family history file, which traces your connection with the former Romanian territories.
To submit documents, you need to appear in person at the general consular department at the Romanian embassy in Ukraine (in Odesa, Kyiv or Chernivtsi). The decision to grant citizenship is considered within 1-2 years. In general, the procedure is free if you really have Romanian roots.
Obtaining citizenship through marriage
According to Romanian law, marrying a Romanian citizen is another way to acquire their citizenship. The marriage must be officially registered for at least 5 years at the time of application. It is also necessary to pass an interview at the consular department and provide evidence of the family's actual residence in Romania.
It is worth noting that the procedure is accompanied by a thorough check for the fictitious nature of the marriage. The registration fee is about 600-800 euros.
Romanian citizenship without roots
For those of non-Romanian descent, the paths narrow. In some cases, Romanian citizenship without roots can be granted for outstanding services to the country or through investment in the economy. But such cases are considered individually and require strong financial support.
Acquisition of citizenship by birth in Romania
If a child is born on the territory of Romania, this does not automatically give him Romanian citizenship. However, in certain circumstances (for example, parents are unknown or stateless persons), a separate consideration of the issue is conducted.
Acquisition of Romanian citizenship by birth is regulated by Section C of Article 8 of the Law "On Romanian Citizenship". A stateless person or a foreigner can obtain Romanian citizenship upon application, if the following conditions are met:
- The applicant was born and lives in Romania at the time of submitting the petition. Or if he was not born in Romania, he has legally lived here for at least 8 years.
- If the applicant is married to a Romanian citizen, they must have lived together for at least 5 years from the date of marriage.
- By his behavior, actions and attitude, the applicant demonstrates loyalty to Romania, does not commit or support actions directed against law and order or national security.
- The applicant has reached the age of majority (18 years).
- Has legal means for a dignified existence on the territory of Romania in accordance with the legislation on foreigners.
- Has not been prosecuted in Romania or abroad for an offense that makes him unworthy of Romanian citizenship.
- Possesses the Romanian language, the basics of Romanian culture and civilization is sufficient for integration into society.
- Knows the Constitution and the national anthem of Romania.
In summary, the most realistic way for Ukrainians to obtain Romanian citizenship remains the presence of documented Romanian roots (repatriation). It is through this route that every year thousands of our compatriots join the large family of citizens of the European Union. Good luck on your way!
