Armenia Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Armenia welcomes international visitors with a relatively straightforward entry process and generous visa policies. Located in the South Caucasus region, Armenia offers visa-free entry to citizens of many countries and an accessible e-Visa system for others. The country has modernized its immigration procedures in recent years, making entry smoother for tourists, business travelers, and those visiting family. Most travelers arrive through Zvartnots International Airport in Yerevan, though land border crossings with Georgia and Iran are also available (note that borders with Azerbaijan and Turkey remain closed). The immigration process is generally efficient, with English-speaking officers available at major entry points. Visitors should ensure their passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond their intended stay and have proof of sufficient funds and onward travel arrangements. Armenia's strategic location and rich cultural heritage make it an increasingly popular destination. Whether you're exploring ancient monasteries, enjoying the vibrant capital of Yerevan, or hiking in stunning mountain landscapes, understanding entry requirements will help ensure a smooth start to your Armenian adventure. Always check the most current requirements before traveling, as immigration policies can change.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Armenia offers visa-free entry to citizens of over 60 countries, an e-Visa system for many others, and traditional visa options for remaining nationalities. The type of authorization you need depends on your citizenship and purpose of visit.

Visa-Free Entry

Up to 180 days per year

Citizens of these countries can enter Armenia without a visa for tourism, business, or family visits

Includes

All European Union member states United States Canada United Kingdom Australia New Zealand Russia Ukraine Georgia Belarus Argentina Brazil Chile United Arab Emirates Qatar Kuwait Japan South Korea Singapore Switzerland Norway Iceland

The 180-day limit applies within any calendar year. Eurasian Economic Union citizens (Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan) can stay indefinitely. Always carry your passport as identification. Some nationalities may receive 90 or 120 days instead of 180 days.

Electronic Visa (e-Visa)

21 days (single entry) or 120 days (multiple entry)

Citizens of countries not eligible for visa-free entry can apply for an e-Visa online

Includes

China India Indonesia Philippines Thailand Vietnam Egypt South Africa Turkey Iran Most other countries not eligible for visa-free entry

How to Apply: Apply online at evisa.mfa.am. Processing typically takes 3-5 business days, though it can be as quick as 2 hours. Print the e-Visa approval and present it upon arrival along with your passport.
Cost: Approximately 3,000-6,000 AMD (8-15 USD for single entry, higher for multiple entry). Fees vary by nationality and visa type. Payment by credit/debit card online.

E-Visa must be obtained before travel - it cannot be issued on arrival. Ensure your email address is correct as the approved e-Visa will be sent electronically. The e-Visa is valid for entry within 120 days of issuance.

Visa on Arrival

21 days (single entry) or 120 days (multiple entry)

Available for citizens of most countries not eligible for visa-free entry, if they haven't obtained an e-Visa

How to Apply: Available at Zvartnots International Airport and land border crossings. Complete application form and pay fee upon arrival. Processing takes 15-30 minutes depending on queue.

Cost is similar to e-Visa but applying online in advance is recommended to save time at the border. Visa on arrival may not be available at all land border crossings, so check in advance if not arriving by air.

Traditional Visa Required

Varies based on visa type and purpose of visit

Some nationalities or special circumstances require applying at an Armenian embassy or consulate

How to Apply: Contact the nearest Armenian embassy or consulate. Required for work visas, long-term stays, study visas, and certain nationalities. Processing time typically 5-10 business days.

Required for employment, study, or stays exceeding tourist visa limits. Extensions and residence permits can be arranged through the Passport and Visa Department in Yerevan for those already in Armenia.

Arrival Process

The entry process into Armenia is straightforward. Whether arriving by air at Zvartnots International Airport or by land from Georgia or Iran, expect standard immigration and customs procedures. Have all required documents ready and be prepared to answer basic questions about your visit.

Document Check

Present your passport and visa (if required) to the immigration officer. Your passport will be scanned and checked against databases.

Immigration Interview

Answer brief questions about the purpose of your visit, duration of stay, and accommodation details. This is typically quick and routine.

Biometric Data Collection

At major entry points, fingerprints may be taken and a photo captured as part of the entry process.

Entry Stamp

Your passport will be stamped with the entry date. Verify that the stamp is clear and legible, as you'll need it for departure.

Baggage Claim and Customs

Collect your luggage and proceed through customs. Most travelers pass through the green 'nothing to declare' channel. If carrying items requiring declaration, use the red channel.

Exit Immigration Area

Once cleared, exit to the arrivals area where you can access currency exchange, SIM cards, taxis, and other services.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Armenia. Should have at least one blank page for entry/exit stamps.

Visa or e-Visa (if applicable)

Print out your e-Visa approval if you applied online. Keep it with your passport for presentation to immigration.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservation, invitation letter from host, or address where you'll be staying. May be requested by immigration officers.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Bank statements, credit cards, or cash to demonstrate you can support yourself during your stay. Rarely requested but good to have available.

Return/Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from Armenia, such as a return flight ticket or onward travel booking. May be requested to confirm you don't intend to overstay.

Travel Insurance

While not mandatory for entry, comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended and may be requested.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Have all documents organized and easily accessible before reaching the immigration counter to speed up the process.

Keep your entry stamp legible and safe - you'll need to show it when departing Armenia. Take a photo of it as backup.

Exchange a small amount of currency at the airport for immediate expenses, though ATMs and better exchange rates are available in the city.

If traveling overland from Georgia, the Bagratashen and Bavra border crossings are most commonly used and well-equipped for tourist entry.

Download offline maps and key information before arrival, as you may not have immediate internet access.

Be polite and patient with immigration officers. Most speak English, but having key information written down in Armenian can be helpful.

Register your stay if required - hotels automatically register guests, but if staying with friends/family, you may need to register at the local police station for stays exceeding certain durations.

Customs & Duty-Free

Armenia's customs regulations are standard for the region. Most personal items for tourist use can be brought in without issue. However, there are limits on duty-free goods and strict prohibitions on certain items. When in doubt, declare items to avoid penalties.

Alcohol

Up to 2 liters of alcoholic beverages per person

Must be 18 years or older. Wine is particularly appreciated in Armenia, but quantities above the limit may incur duty.

Tobacco

Up to 400 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco products per person

Must be 18 years or older. Exceeding limits requires payment of customs duty.

Currency

Amounts over 10,000 USD (or equivalent) must be declared

Both foreign currency and Armenian Drams must be declared if exceeding this threshold. Declaration is done via written customs form. There's no limit on how much you can bring, but amounts over the threshold must be declared.

Gifts/Goods

Personal goods up to 500 EUR in value

Items clearly for personal use during your trip are generally exempt. Commercial quantities or valuable items may require declaration and duty payment.

Perfume

Reasonable quantities for personal use

Typically interpreted as 1-2 bottles. Large quantities may be considered commercial and subject to duty.

Prohibited Items

Narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances - strictly prohibited with severe penalties
Weapons and ammunition - without proper authorization and permits
Explosives and fireworks - prohibited for passenger transport
Counterfeit currency and goods - illegal to import
Pornographic materials - prohibited under Armenian law
Materials promoting violence or hatred - prohibited content
Endangered species and products - protected under CITES regulations
Fresh meat and dairy products - from certain countries due to disease control

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - bring only what you need with original packaging and prescription. Large quantities may require a doctor's letter
Cultural artifacts and antiques - items over 50 years old require special export permits if you plan to take them out of Armenia
Drones and radio equipment - may require registration or permits from relevant authorities
Professional photography/video equipment - may be questioned if appearing commercial; bring documentation for valuable equipment
Plants and seeds - require phytosanitary certificates and may be restricted
Pets - require health certificates, vaccination records, and microchip (see special situations section)

Health Requirements

Armenia does not currently require specific vaccinations for entry for most travelers. However, health precautions are recommended, and requirements can change based on global health situations and countries visited prior to arrival.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - only if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission (certificate required if coming from endemic areas in Africa or South America)

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations - ensure MMR, DTP, and other routine vaccines are up to date
Hepatitis A - recommended for most travelers due to possible food/water exposure
Hepatitis B - recommended for those who may have intimate contact with locals or need medical procedures
Typhoid - recommended for travelers visiting smaller cities, villages, or adventurous eaters
Rabies - consider for travelers spending time outdoors, especially in rural areas, or working with animals
Tetanus - ensure boosters are current, especially for active travelers

Health Insurance

While not mandatory for entry, comprehensive travel health insurance is strongly recommended. Medical facilities in Yerevan are adequate for most needs, but serious conditions may require evacuation. Ensure your insurance covers medical evacuation. EU citizens should carry their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), though private insurance is still advisable. Keep insurance documents and emergency contact numbers easily accessible.

Current Health Requirements: COVID-19 requirements have been lifted as of 2023, but always check current health entry requirements before travel as these can change rapidly. Visit the Armenian Ministry of Health website or your country's travel advisory site for the latest information. Some countries may have specific bilateral health agreements with Armenia. If you've recently traveled to countries with disease outbreaks, additional screening may be required at entry.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in Armenia for citizen services

Register with your embassy if planning an extended stay. Most embassies are located in Yerevan. Check your government's travel advisory website for specific contact information.

Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Official visa and immigration information: evisa.mfa.am and mfa.am

For e-Visa applications, policy updates, and official immigration information. English version available.

Police and Visa Department

Passport and Visa Department for extensions and registration: Davtashen 3rd Massif, Yerevan

For visa extensions, residence permits, and registration issues. Phone: +374 10 37-02-92

Emergency Services

Emergency number: 911 (unified emergency number)

For police, ambulance, and fire services. Operators may have limited English; having a local speaker assist is helpful if possible. Alternative numbers: Police 102, Ambulance 103, Fire 101

Tourist Information

Armenia Tourism Office and information centers in Yerevan

Located at Republic Square and other central locations. Can assist with general travel questions and local guidance.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport (no longer allowed on parent's passport for most nationalities). If a child is traveling with only one parent or with non-parents, carry a notarized letter of consent from the absent parent(s) authorizing the travel. This is especially important if parents have different surnames from the child. Birth certificates may be requested. Unaccompanied minors require special arrangements with airlines and immigration authorities.

Traveling with Pets

Pets entering Armenia require: (1) ISO-compatible microchip for identification, (2) Valid rabies vaccination certificate (administered at least 21 days before travel but not more than 12 months prior), (3) International veterinary health certificate issued within 5 days of travel, (4) Import permit may be required for certain animals. Dogs and cats are most commonly permitted. Exotic pets may require additional permits. Check with Armenian veterinary authorities and your airline for specific requirements. Some breeds may have restrictions.

Extended Stays and Residence

Tourist visas can typically be extended once for an additional period by applying at the Passport and Visa Department in Yerevan before your current authorization expires. For stays longer than tourist visas allow, you'll need a different visa category: temporary residence permit (for work, study, family reunification) or special residence permit. Applications require supporting documents (employment contract, university enrollment, marriage certificate, etc.). Process can take several weeks. Overstaying your visa can result in fines, deportation, and future entry bans. Always apply for extensions before expiry.

Business Travelers

Many nationalities can conduct business activities (meetings, conferences, negotiations) on tourist visa/visa-free entry. However, formal employment requires a work permit and appropriate visa. Bring business cards, invitation letters from Armenian partners, and documentation of your business purpose. If bringing commercial samples or equipment, declare them and carry relevant documentation. Temporary import permits may be needed for valuable business equipment.

Dual Nationals and Armenian Diaspora

Armenian citizens (including dual nationals) must enter and exit Armenia using their Armenian passport. Diaspora Armenians may be eligible for special long-term visas or simplified residence procedures. Contact the Armenian embassy or the Office of the Diaspora Commissioner for information about diaspora programs and benefits.

Previous Travel to Nagorno-Karabakh

Travelers who have previously visited Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh) or entered Armenia through the former Lachin corridor may face entry restrictions to Azerbaijan. This does not affect entry to Armenia itself, but be aware if planning future travel to Azerbaijan. Passport stamps from Nagorno-Karabakh may cause issues with Azerbaijani authorities.

Students and Researchers

Student visas require acceptance letter from an Armenian educational institution, proof of financial means, and health insurance. Apply at Armenian embassy/consulate before arrival. Research visas may require invitation from Armenian research institution and description of research activities. Both can be extended in Armenia through the Passport and Visa Department.