Who is Karyna Shuliak? Belarusian dentist who could inherit Jeffrey Epstein's $100 million-plus fortune & was left diamond ring 'in contemplation of marriage'

Karyna Shuliak, a Belarusian-born dentist identified in court records and media reports as Jeffrey Epstein's longtime companion, has once again come under public scrutiny following the release of investigative files detailing their relationship.

According to a report by The New York Times, the documents provide fresh insight into the nearly eight years Shuliak spent in Epstein's inner circle, the financial support she received and her potential role as a beneficiary of his estate.

Who is Karyna Shuliak?

Shuliak moved from Belarus to New York in 2011 on a student visa. Soon after arriving in the United States, she met Epstein, and the two developed a close relationship.


The records indicate that Epstein referred to her as his "favourite", provided financial support and helped her pursue a career in dentistry. Over the years, he is reported to have transferred nearly $1 million to her and also sent money to her parents in Belarus.

How did Epstein help her education?

The investigative files state that Epstein assisted Shuliak in gaining admission to Columbia University's dental school after her initial application was unsuccessful. He later paid her tuition and continued supporting her educational ambitions.

In 2023, she returned to Columbia University to enrol in a postdoctoral dental programme required to obtain a licence to practise dentistry in New York State.

Reports claim Epstein arranged a marriage

The documents also allege that Epstein arranged a same-sex marriage between Shuliak and one of his employees, reportedly to help her obtain a US green card.

A congressional report later questioned whether the marriage was genuine, describing it as potentially "illusory". However, there has been no public indication that US immigration authorities have challenged her citizenship status.

What do the files reveal about their relationship?

As reported by The New York Times, federal prosecutors' emails show that Epstein arranged Broadway tickets, restaurant outings and a helicopter tour of Manhattan for Shuliak and her roommate.

The records also suggest she travelled to Epstein's ranch in New Mexico and later visited his private island in the US Virgin Islands during the course of their relationship.

Could she inherit Epstein's fortune?

Shortly before his death in August 2019, Epstein reportedly amended his will to include Shuliak among the beneficiaries of his estate. The documents also mention a large diamond ring accompanied by a handwritten note stating it was given "in contemplation of marriage".

Although reports have suggested she could inherit a significant share of Epstein's remaining wealth, the exact amount has not been made public.

Estate records show that Epstein's fortune, once estimated at around $600 million, has declined to between $120 million and $200 million following compensation payments to victims and other legal settlements. His will names multiple beneficiaries, including members of his family.

Inputs from agencies