Putin simplifies citizenship procedures for Belarusians

December 19, Pozirk. On December 18, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed an edict that simplifies Russian citizenship procedures for nationals of Belarus, Kazakhstan and Moldova.

The edict removes the five-year residence rule and the requirement to be familiar with Russian history and the country’s basic laws.

Belarusians, unlike Kazakhs and Moldovans, would be exempt from certifying their command of Russian. The edict authorizes them to apply for Russian citizenship with a residence permit and an ID.