Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree simplifying the process of granting Russian citizenship to citizens of Moldova, Belarus, and Kazakhstan.

Putin simplified citizenship process for Moldovan, Belarusian, and Kazakh citizens allowing them to obtain Russian citizenship through a permit and test rather than proving permanent residence

Putin signed his presidential decree on Dec. 18 allowing citizens of Moldova, Belarus, and Kazakhstan to obtain Russian citizenship on a 'simplified basis,' by first applying for a permit and then passing a test on Russian history, rather than proving permanent residency in Russia.

Putin signed decree simplifying naturalization for Belarusian, Kazakh, and Moldovan citizens on Dec. 18

On December 18, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree to simplify the acquisition of Russian citizenship for citizens of Belarus, Moldova, and Kazakhstan.

Under the new decree, Belarusians do not need to prove their knowledge of the Russian language, while Kazakhs and Moldovans still need to pass a Russian language exam.