Moscow simplifies citizenship for native Russian speakers
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 6 March 2014 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Moscow simplifies citizenship for native Russian speakers, 6 March 2014, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/534d2e4eb.html [accessed 5 June 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
March 06, 2014
The Russian government is working on simplifying procedures for native Russian speakers to obtain citizenship.
Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev said on March 6 that native Russian speakers who had lived in territories that were subjects of the Russian Empire or those of the former Soviet Union will be able to obtain Russian citizenship without getting permanent residence permits.
Medvedev added that priority will be given to educated professionals and specialists.
A special commission will hold interviews with potential Russian citizens.
Medvedev also said citizenship will be given within three months to those who enter the Russian Federation on immigration visas and who satisfy the previous criteria.
Medvedev's statement comes amid the ongoing occupation of Ukraine's Crimea by Russian forces.
Based on reporting by RIA Novosti and Interfax
Link to original story on RFE/RL website
