Сформульовано визначення поняття принципів громадянства, досліджені теоретичні проблеми їх систематизації та класифікації.
Сформулировано определение понятия принципов гражданства, исследованы теоретические проблемы их систематизации и классификации.
The author analyzes different scientific approaches defining essence and core issues of citizenship. The definition of principles of citizenship is given as well as theoretical problems of systematization andclassification of such principles is studied. As reflected in the legislation, the principles of citizenship, first, themselves are of regulatory importance, and, secondly, considered the source of legal regulation with regard to citizenship issues. It is worked out that the principles of citizenship: 1) reflect the nature and content of the citizenship; 2) are the regulatory basis; 3) are direct; and 4) considered the source for the government practice in citizenship sphere; 5) influence person’s behavior and amount of freedom is granted; 6) are an important indicator of the democratic state. The following classification of citizenship principles is proposed according to the article: depending on definition and place the principles occupy in the system of citizenship principles general and special principles; depending on legal act bearing such principles principles defined by Constitution of Ukraine and principles defined by Law on citizenship of Ukraine. Analysis of international public-law documents allows the author to claim that the principles of citizenship contained in such documents, on the one hand, characterize citizenship as an integral institution of law, and on the other regulate specific legal relationships arising with respect to citizenship. Principles of citizenship are complex and multifaceted phenomenon. The principles are the foundation that links together various components of citizenship, successfully reflects its essence as a single legal institution.