Vladimir Putin proposed to the Russian State Duma an agreement with Tskhinvali aimed at making it easier for South Ossetians to seek Russian citizenship.

The agreement was signed in 2021, and Georgia regards it as Russia's "continuation of policies of illegitimate occupation and de-facto annexation."

South Ossetians can get Russian citizenship without giving up their passports under the terms of the deal. Russian people will be able to apply for South Ossetian documents in the same way.

South Ossetians over the age of 18 would be able to apply for Russian citizenship in a more straightforward manner, while children under the age of 14 will obtain the same citizenship as their parents. Until the child reaches the age of 18, his or her parents will be allowed to pick their child's citizenship through a written application.

Residents who hold dual citizenship will be entitled to social security, education, and medical care under the laws of the country in which they continuously live. Military duty is also covered under the rule.

The agreement will go into effect when the ratification documents are exchanged and will be effective for five years.