Yerevan Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, welcomes travelers with relatively straightforward entry procedures. Most visitors from Western countries can enter visa-free for short stays, and the immigration process at Zvartnots International Airport is generally efficient. Upon arrival, travelers will undergo passport control where officers may ask about the purpose of visit and duration of stay. It's essential to have a passport valid for at least six months beyond the planned departure date, and while not always checked, carrying proof of accommodation, onward travel, and sufficient funds is advisable. Before traveling to Yerevan, visitors should verify their specific visa requirements based on nationality, as Armenia offers visa-free access, e-visas, or traditional visas depending on the country of origin. The entry process is similar to many international airports, with customs declarations required for certain items. Travelers should be aware that entry regulations can change, so consulting official sources like the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia is recommended to ensure compliance with current rules. To ensure a smooth entry, prepare all necessary documents in advance, including any required visas or electronic authorizations. Upon arrival, follow signs for immigration, have your passport ready, and answer any questions truthfully. After clearing immigration, proceed to baggage claim and then through customs, where you may need to declare items like large amounts of currency or restricted goods. Familiarizing yourself with duty-free allowances and prohibited items can help avoid delays.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Armenia has a liberal visa policy with visa-free entry for many nationalities, an electronic visa system for others, and traditional visa requirements for some countries.

Visa-Free Entry

Up to 180 days per year for most visa-free nationalities.

Nationalities that can enter Armenia without a visa for tourism or business purposes.

Includes

United States United Kingdom European Union countries Canada Australia New Zealand Japan South Korea Russia Ukraine

Visa-free stay is typically for tourism or business; check specific bilateral agreements. Passport must be valid for at least six months beyond entry date.

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA/eVisa)

Up to 120 days with single or multiple entries, depending on the visa type.

Nationalities that require an electronic visa obtained online before travel.

Includes

India China Pakistan Bangladesh Sri Lanka Nigeria Iran

How to Apply: Apply online through the official eVisa portal of Armenia (evisa.mfa.am). Processing typically takes 3-5 business days, but expedited options may be available.
Cost: Approximately $6-$10 USD for standard processing, with higher fees for expedited service.

The eVisa must be printed and presented upon arrival. Ensure application is submitted at least a week before travel to account for processing delays.

Visa Required

Varies by visa type; tourist visas are usually issued for up to 120 days.

Nationalities that must obtain a traditional visa from an Armenian embassy or consulate before travel.

How to Apply: Apply in person or by mail at an Armenian diplomatic mission. Requirements typically include a completed application form, passport photos, proof of travel, accommodation, and funds.

Processing times can vary; apply well in advance of your trip. Some nationalities may also be eligible for visa on arrival in specific cases, but pre-arranged visas are safer.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at Zvartnots International Airport in Yerevan, travelers will go through immigration, baggage claim, and customs. The process is generally straightforward if documents are in order.

Passport Control

Present your passport and any required visa or eVisa to immigration officers. They may ask about your visit purpose, duration, and accommodation.

Baggage Claim

After clearing immigration, proceed to the baggage claim area to collect your luggage.

Customs Declaration

If carrying items that need declaration (e.g., over $10,000 in currency, restricted goods), fill out a customs form and present it to customs officers.

Documents to Have Ready

Passport

Must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. Required for all travelers.

Visa or eVisa

If required based on nationality, must be presented upon entry. EVisas should be printed.

Proof of Accommodation

Such as hotel reservation or invitation letter; may be requested by immigration.

Return or Onward Ticket

Evidence of planned departure from Armenia; not always checked but recommended.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Such as bank statements or cash; may be asked to demonstrate ability to cover expenses.

Tips for Smooth Entry

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

Be polite and honest when answering questions from immigration officers.

If you need a visa, apply well in advance to avoid last-minute issues.

Keep a copy of your passport and visa separately from the originals in case of loss.

Customs & Duty-Free

Armenia has standard customs regulations for duty-free allowances and prohibited items. Travelers must declare certain goods upon entry.

Alcohol

2 liters of alcoholic beverages for personal use.

Travelers must be at least 18 years old to import alcohol.

Tobacco

200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco.

For personal use only; age restriction of 18 years applies.

Currency

Amounts over $10,000 USD or equivalent must be declared.

Declaration is mandatory; failure to declare can result in fines or confiscation.

Gifts/Goods

Goods up to a value of $500 USD for personal use.

If value exceeds $500, duties may apply. Commercial goods require separate declaration.

Prohibited Items

Narcotics and illegal drugs - strictly prohibited by law
Weapons and ammunition without special permission - for security reasons
Counterfeit goods and pirated materials - to protect intellectual property
Pornographic materials - restricted under Armenian law

Restricted Items

Medications requiring prescription - bring a doctor's note and original packaging
Cultural artifacts and antiques - require export permits from authorities
Plants and animal products - may need phytosanitary or health certificates

Health Requirements

No mandatory vaccinations are required for entry into Armenia, but certain health precautions are recommended.

Recommended Vaccinations

Hepatitis A
Typhoid
Tetanus
Rabies (for extended stays or rural travel)

Health Insurance

Travel health insurance is not mandatory for short stays but highly recommended to cover medical emergencies, as healthcare costs can be high for foreigners.

Current Health Requirements: As of October 2023, there are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for entry, but this can change; check the latest updates from the Armenian Ministry of Health or WHO before travel.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Find your country's embassy or consulate in Yerevan for assistance with visas, legal issues, or emergencies.

Check your government's travel advisory website (e.g., travel.state.gov for US citizens) for contact details and services.

Immigration Authority

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia - responsible for visa policies and immigration information.

Visit mfa.am for official visa applications, requirements, and updates.

Emergency

Emergency services number for police, ambulance, and fire in Armenia.

Dial 112 for all emergencies; operators speak Armenian, Russian, and sometimes English.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Minors should have their own passport. If traveling with one parent or alone, a notarized consent letter from the non-accompanying parent(s) may be required to prevent child abduction concerns.

Traveling with Pets

Pets require a health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, proof of rabies vaccination (at least 30 days before entry), and an import permit from the Armenian State Veterinary Service. Microchipping is recommended.

Extended Stays

For stays longer than the visa-free or tourist visa period, apply for a visa extension at the Passport and Visa Department of the Police of Armenia in Yerevan, or consider obtaining a temporary residence permit for long-term visits.

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