Putin simplifies Russian citizenship for locals of occupied Abkhazia, Tskhinvali regions

19:18, 17.05.2025

Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree on simplified acquisition of Russian citizenship by citizens of Georgia’s occupied Abkhazia and South Ossetia regions.

The document was published on the portal of legal acts, Russian media reported.

Applicants for citizenship will not need to comply with the requirements for permanent residence in the Russian Federation, knowledge of the Russian language and Russian history.

According to the document, citizens of occupied Abkhazia and South Ossetia permanently residing in the regions can apply to the so-called diplomatic missions of the Russian Federation at site.

If they already live in Russia, they can apply to the territorial body of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation at their place of stay or residence.

Conflicts

Russian Citizenship

Vladimir Putin