Armenia introduces a temporary visa exemption for residents of 113 countries

Armenia has announced the introduction of a temporary visa exemption for nationals of 113 countries, effective from January 1 to July 1, 2026.

This initiative applies to travelers holding a valid residence permit issued by the United States, European Union member states, Schengen Area countries, as well as the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, or Oman.

According to Armenian authorities, eligible visitors may stay in the country visa-free for up to 180 days within a one-year period. However, their residence permit must remain valid for at least six months from the date of entry into the country.

This policy targets a wide range of travelers, including tourists, family visitors, business travelers, and those seeking extended stays.

Visa exemption in Armenia: specific eligibility requirements

The Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has outlined several requirements for this exemption.

The residence permit must be presented as a physical card or as a sticker affixed to the passport. It must include, in Latin characters, essential information such as the holder’s name, nationality, date of birth, and the document’s validity period, indicated according to the Gregorian calendar.

Border authorities reserve the right to verify the validity and compliance of these documents prior to entry.

The 113 countries covered by Armenia’s temporary visa exemption

This list, established by Armenian diplomatic authorities, covers a broad range of countries across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean, reflecting Yerevan’s intention to expand its international openness and diversify visitor flows.

Nationals of the following 113 countries and territories who hold a valid residence permit issued by one of the aforementioned states are eligible for this temporary exemption:

“A clear invitation to travellers around the world”

According to the Armenian Tourism Committee, this decision aims to boost international visitor numbers and improve the country’s connectivity with the rest of the world.

It is also intended to encourage more spontaneous travel and facilitate the organization of both short- and long-term stays.

Lusine Gevorgyan, Chair of the Armenian Tourism Committee, emphasized the ambition behind the initiative: “This decision is a clear invitation to travellers around the world. Armenia is open and welcoming, and we look forward to sharing our culture, landscapes and hospitality with more visitors throughout 2026.”

Beyond the expected economic impact, authorities also aim to enhance the country’s international visibility, highlighting its rich ancient cultural heritage, mountainous landscapes, and distinctive historical identity.

Armenia’s e-Visa: a simplified alternative

In addition to this temporary exemption, Armenia also offers an electronic visa system accessible through the official platform evisa.mfa.am, designed to simplify procedures for travelers who are not eligible for the exemption.

Two types of visitor visas are available:

• a visa for stays of up to 21 days, priced at $8 USD;
• a visa for stays of up to 120 days, priced at $38 USD.

The application process is completed entirely online, and processing time may take up to three business days. This system is part of Armenia’s broader policy of facilitating travel to the country and its efforts to make its territory more accessible to international visitors.