Armenia grants Special Residency Status to three categories of foreign nationals, providing eligible holders with a dedicated Armenian passport valid for 10 years and broad legal rights in the country.
According to official guidance from Armenia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the status is granted by the country’s Prime Minister and is regulated by legislation governing the legal status of foreign citizens.
Who qualifies for Armenia’s Special Residency Status?
Three categories of foreign nationals are eligible to apply for the special status.
1. Foreign nationals of Armenian ancestry
People with Armenian ancestry are among those eligible to apply for the Special Armenian Passport.
2. Notable contributors and individuals involved in Armenia’s activities
The second category covers notable individuals who have made significant contributions to the Armenian state and nation, as well as foreigners actively engaged in economic or cultural activities in Armenia.
3. Survivors of the Armenian Genocide
Survivors of the Armenian Genocide can also obtain the Special Passport through a simplified application process. Their application fee is waived.
What does the Special Armenian Passport offer?
Holders of the Special Armenian Passport do not need to obtain an entry visa before travelling to Armenia.
While in Armenia, they are protected under Armenian law and have the same rights and obligations as Armenian citizens, subject to three restrictions.
They cannot vote, stand for public office or join political organisations.
Special Passport holders are also exempt from military service in the Armenian National Army.
However, the passport does not remove visa requirements for travel to Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries or other destinations where a visa may be required.
For such travel, holders must continue using their national passport issued by their home country.
How to apply for the Armenia Special Passport
Foreign nationals residing outside Armenia are required to submit their application documents through an Armenian embassy or consulate in their country of residence.
Applicants living in countries without an Armenian diplomatic mission are advised to contact the nearest or most convenient Armenian mission.
Foreign nationals already residing in Armenia can submit their applications directly to the Migration and Citizenship Service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
The office is located at 17/10 Building, 4th District, Davtashen, Yerevan 0054. Its telephone number is +374 10-370264.