Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed laws that significantly expedite Russian citizenship process for citizens of post-Soviet countries.

In particular, Ukrainian citizens, who live in certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions, are exempt from state duty.

"The federal law exempts persons, who permanently reside in the territory of certain areas of Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine and apply… for citizenship of the Russian Federation in a simplified manner, from the payment of the state duty for conferment of citizenship of the Russian Federation," reads the statement on the Kremlin’s website.

This state duty amounts to RUR 3,500 ($ 47).

Putin also signed a law that allows foreigners to get Russian citizenship without giving up their previous citizenship. In addition, the citizens of Ukraine, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Moldova can get Russian citizenship without five-year permanent residence in Russia. The foreigners who are married to Russians or are permanent residents of Russia will be able to get citizenship under expedited procedure.

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