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Romanian Citizenship for Ukrainian Citizens by Descent

Romanian citizenship by descent is a popular procedure for Ukrainian citizens. This is due to historical events and territorial changes when significant parts of modern-day Ukraine were part of Greater Romania. This article will provide a detailed review of the legal aspects, territorial belonging, and required documents for obtaining Romanian citizenship by descent.

Legal Framework for Acquiring Romanian Citizenship

The primary law governing Romanian citizenship is the Romanian Citizenship Law (Legea cetățeniei române) No. 21/1991. According to Article 10 of this law, citizens of other countries, whose ancestors were born or lived in territories that were part of Romania before 1940, have the right to obtain Romanian citizenship through the procedure of repatriation. More details can be found at this link.

Historical Background

Greater Romania included territories that are now part of Ukraine. The main regions where Romanians lived were Northern Bukovina, Hertza, Bessarabia, and parts of Maramureș. After World War II, these territories were transferred to the USSR, and today they belong to Ukraine.

Where Did Your Ancestors Have to Live to Obtain Romanian Citizenship by Descent?

To qualify for Romanian citizenship by descent, the applicant’s ancestors must have lived in one of the following territories before 1940:

  • Northern Bukovina (includes Chernivtsi)
  • Hertza (includes Hertza)
  • Bessarabia (includes Chișinău and other regions)
  • Northern Maramureș (includes Sighetu Marmației)

Additionally, in the southern part of Ukraine, there are settlements that were part of Greater Romania:

  • Izmail: City of Izmail and surrounding areas.
  • Kiliya: City of Kiliya and nearby settlements.
  • Reni: City of Reni and adjacent territories.
  • Vilkovo: City of Vilkovo and surrounding areas.
  • Bolgard: City of Bolgrad and its surroundings.
  • Artsiz: City of Artsiz and nearby settlements.
  • Tatarbunary: City of Tatarbunary and adjacent areas.
  • Sarat: City of Sarat and surrounding areas.

These locations were part of the Romanian province of Bessarabia, which at that time was part of Greater Romania. After WWII, these territories were transferred to the Soviet Union and are now part of Ukraine.

List of Documents Required for Romanian Citizenship

This list of documents is for reference purposes and is not an official source. It is intended to help the applicant assess whether they have the necessary documentation.

To apply for Romanian citizenship, the following documents are required:

  • Photographs: Two passport-sized photos (3.5 x 4.5 cm).
  • Internal Passport: Notarized copy and apostille.
  • Foreign Passport: Notarized copy and apostille.
  • Birth Certificate: Original with apostille.
  • Marriage Certificate: If applicable, original with apostille.
  • Divorce Certificate: If applicable, original with apostille.
  • Birth Certificates of Minor Children: If applicable, notarized consent from the other parent.
  • Consent of Minors Over 14: Notarized statement in the presence of parents.
  • Parents’ Birth Certificates: Originals with apostille.
  • Parents’ Marriage Certificate: Original with apostille.
  • Grandparents’ Birth Certificates: Originals with apostille.
  • Grandparents’ Marriage Certificates: Originals with apostille.
  • Criminal Record Certificate: Original with apostille.

All documents must be translated into Romanian and notarized. Laminated certificates are not accepted, as lamination damages the details of the original documents.

Submission of Applications for Romanian Citizenship by Descent

Applications are submitted in person to the National Office for Citizenship, either at the main office in Bucharest or at territorial offices in Iași, Galați, and Suceava.

The processing time for applications is currently reported to be at least two years. It is not easy to schedule an in-person submission, as spots are limited. On average, applicants can expect to wait about 3 months for their turn.

Soviet-era documents are not accepted for apostille in Ukraine, so even if you have birth, marriage, or death certificates from the Soviet period, you will need to obtain duplicates of these documents from Ukraine’s Public Service Centers or civil registry offices (ZAGS) and then apply for an apostille.

Taking the Oath After Receiving Romanian Citizenship

Romanian citizenship is restored from the date the applicant takes the oath of allegiance to Romania. Within 6 months of receiving the notification of the decision by the President of the National Office for Citizenship, individuals who have restored their Romanian citizenship must take the oath.

Conclusion

The process of obtaining Romanian citizenship for Ukrainian citizens by descent requires careful preparation of documents and proof of ancestral ties to former Romanian territories. Understanding the legal requirements and historical context will help simplify the procedure and avoid potential mistakes.

For more detailed information, it is recommended to consult with specialized lawyers or consultants who deal with repatriation and citizenship issues.

Found your roots? Heading to Romania for submission? Don’t forget to get your vehicle inspected and buy a vignette for your travel to Romania!