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Armenia has granted three categories of foreign nationals Special Residency Status, which includes a dedicated Armenian passport valid for ten years and broad legal rights in the country.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia confirmed the categories in its official guidance, noting that the status is granted by Armenia’s Prime Minister and is governed by the Law on Legal Status of Foreign Citizens, which was first enacted in 1994 and later revised under the Law on Aliens.
Who qualifies for the Special Armenian Residency Status?
Three categories of foreign nationals are eligible to apply:
1. Foreigners with Armenian ancestry.
2. Notable people who have made significant contributions to the Armenian state and nation, or who are actively involved in economic or cultural activities in Armenia.
3. Additionally, survivors of the Armenian Genocide are eligible for the Special Passport through a simplified application process, with their application fee waived entirely.
What the Special Armenian Passport Offers
Holders of the Special Armenian Passport no longer need to obtain an entry visa before visiting Armenia.
While in the country, they are fully protected by Armenian law and have the same rights and obligations as Armenian citizens, with three exceptions: they cannot vote, run for public office, or join political organizations.
They are also exempt from serving in the Armenian National Army. It is important to note that the Special Passport does not waive visa requirements for travel to the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) or other countries.
Holders must continue to use their national passport from their home country when traveling to those destinations.
How to Apply for the Armenia Special Passport
Foreign nationals living outside of Armenia must submit their application documents to the Armenian Embassy or Consulate in their country of residence.
Where no Armenian diplomatic mission exists locally, applicants should contact the nearest or most convenient mission.
Those who are already in Armenia can apply directly to the Ministry of Internal Affairs’ Migration and Citizenship Service, which is located at 17/10 Building, 4th District, Davtashen, Yerevan 0054. The office’s phone number is +374 10-370264.