U.S. Embassy Yerevan

1 American Avenue 
Yerevan 0082, Republic of Armenia 
Telephone: +(374) 10-464-700 
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(374) 10-494-444 
Fax: +(374) 10-464-742
Email: ACSyerevan@state.gov

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

You need a valid passport to enter Armenia. U.S. citizens are allowed visa-free entry to Armenia for up to 180 days per year. For visits of longer than 180 days, you must apply for a residency permit through the Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Visit their website for the most current visa information.

• Armenian law requires that Armenian citizens, including dual nationals, enter and depart Armenia on Armenian passports. Even if you naturalized in the United States, the Government of Armenia may still consider you an Armenian citizen. Children born in the United States to two Armenian citizens may also be considered Armenian citizens. Please read the information about Armenian citizenship at the website of the Embassy of Armenia and also review the Dual Nationality information in the “Local Laws and Special Circumstances” section below.
• If you possess an Armenian “special passport” (a residency permit), you still need a valid U.S. passport to enter Armenia. Border guards have refused to admit U.S. citizens carrying “special passports.” Please visit the Embassy of Armenia website for further details. 

Border with Azerbaijan: The border with Azerbaijan remains closed and the U.S. embassy has prohibited embassy employees and their families from non-essential travel to certain border regions due to the ongoing Armenia-Azerbaijani conflict, see the current Armenia Travel Advisory for details.

Border with Turkey: The land border with Turkey remains closed and is patrolled by Russian Border Guards.

Border with Iran: See the Iran travel advisory. The Department of State continues to warn U.S. citizens against all travel to Iran due to arbitrary arrest and detention of U.S. citizens. The Department of State maintains its “Do Not Travel” advisory, noting the “very high risk of arrest and detention of U.S. citizens in Iran, particularly U.S.-Iranian dual nationals.”

Russian Arrest Warrants: Armenia routinely shares information about foreign visitors with Russian law enforcement and security services. U.S. citizens may be detained by Armenian authorities upon entry or exit based on Russia law enforcement or security service information. Former and current U.S. government and military personnel with prior travel to Russia may face increased scrutiny.

Traveling Through Europe: While Armenia is not located in the Schengen area, many flights to Armenia originate in that area of Europe. If you are planning to visit or travel through European countries, you should be familiar with the requirements of the Schengen Agreement.

• Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay.
• If you plan on transiting a Schengen country review, our U.S. Travelers in Europe page..
• You will need sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket.
• For additional information about visas for the Schengen area, see the Schengen Visa page.

HIV/AIDS Entry Restrictions: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Armenia.

Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Natural Disasters: Armenia is prone to earthquakes and landslides. For more information read our page on Crises and disasters abroad.

Crime: Crime is relatively low, and violent crime is infrequent. When police are called, they routinely show up; however, they generally do not speak English. Vehicle break-ins and theft are rare but are the most common crimes. Police indicate that there is a criminal group in Yerevan that targets foreigners and burglarizes rented apartments when the victims are away.

• Matters involving commercial and investment disputes can take months or years to resolve as they work their way through the civil courts. The U.S.-Armenia Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) provides that in the event of a dispute between a U.S. investor and the Republic of Armenia, the investor may take the case to international arbitration.
• Credit card fraud and ATM card skimming occurs.

Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.

• Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly become violent.
• Avoid areas around protests and demonstrations.
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should first contact the police and then the U.S. Embassy at (+374) 10-494-585 during business hours and (+ 374) 10-494-444 after hours.

Report crimes and requests for emergency services to local authorities by dialing 911. English speaking operators are available. Also contact the U.S. Embassy to report your situation.

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.

We can:

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States
• Connect you to assistance for victims of domestic violence
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

International Financial Scams: See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Armenia. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Most scammers pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help.

Tips to avoid scammers:

• Look for red flags like their location is far away, their profile was recently created or seems to be too good to be true, the pace of the relationship is moving too quickly, or they ask for money.
• Set up a phone call/video chat in the initial stages.
• Do a reverse image search on the profile picture.
• If you believe you have been scammed, report the incident to local law enforcement right away and stop all communications with the scammer. If they ask for help, you should refer to them to the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate so we can work with local authorities to assist.

Common scams include:

• Romance/Online dating
• Money transfers
• Lucrative sales
• Gold purchase
• Contracts with promises of large commissions
• Grandparent/Relative targeting (kidnapping, arrested, medical emergency)
• Free Trip/Luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits/job offers
• Bank overpayments

Technology Usage Abroad: Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and physical damage anywhere in the world. Best practices prior to traveling abroad are keeping all software (operating system and apps) updated and use virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications if possible. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi. GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. GPS navigation app may give you the shortest route without safety consideration. Be cautious of using dating apps/online dating websites abroad as U.S. citizens can be targeted by scammers. Make sure to inform your friends and family of your whereabouts, meet at a well-known public location, and do not consume suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs. U.S. citizens have no reasonable expectation of privacy in Armenia. Telephone and electronic communications are subject to surveillance at any time and without advisory, which may compromise sensitive information.

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance. Local resources for victims of domestic violence include shelters, medical assistance, and legal aid. Victims of domestic violence may contact Women’s Support Center at + (374) 099-887-808 which provides assistance to victims of domestic violence and the Light House shelter at + (374) 93-327-834, + (374) 43-500-503, or “20-80” which provides shelter and support to victims. In cases of sexual violence or domestic violence, victims may contact the Women’s Resource Center at + (374) 077-991-280 and +374 94 565626, from 9:00 AM to midnight. Victims may also contact New Generation NGO at +374 60378989 or +374 60478989.

Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders may be unable to access areas at a distance from major cities to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities prior to practicing or operating a business.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Please review the State Department’s page on Arrests or Detention of U.S Citizens Abroad. In addition, many people accused of crimes are held in local prisons in pretrial detention for between two and twelve months with the possibility of posting bail while waiting for a court hearing.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information. 

• Possession, trafficking, or the use of narcotic drugs, including marijuana, are illegal. A prescription for medical marijuana will not protect you from prosecution. If you are arrested for a drug offense, you could face detention during the investigation, which can take years to resolve, and a prison sentence after conviction. 
• Electronic cigarettes and related paraphernalia may be perceived as drug related.
• Armenia does not allow the import of various psychotropic drugs.

Customs and Exports:

• Local officials may occasionally seek bribes to perform basic duties.
• Customs authorities may enforce regulations concerning the import/export of items like firearms, pornography, and communications equipment. Please refer to the Armenian Customs Service for further information.
• The export of items of historical value, such as paintings, carpets, and old books, requires advanced authorization from the Armenian Ministry of Education, Science, Culture, and Sports.

Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, and they may be illegal according to local laws. Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. You may be subject to fines and/or have to give up counterfeit and pirated goods if you bring them back to the United States. See the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website and U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.

Dual nationals:

• Armenian legislation permits Armenian citizens to hold dual citizenship. Even if you naturalized in the United States, the Government of Armenia may still consider you an Armenian citizen. Children born in the United States to two Armenian citizens may also be considered Armenian citizens. Please consult the Armenian government’s website on citizenship and read the Armenian law on citizenship.
• Armenian law requires that Armenian citizens enter and depart Armenia on Armenian passports. Individuals who are dual citizens, or could be, should consult with the Embassy of Armenia in Washington prior to traveling.
• Armenian males over the age of 18 are subject to mandatory military service. Penalties for evading military service include jail time and a substantial fine. Young dual-citizen U.S.-Armenian men are advised to consult with the Embassy of Armenia prior to traveling. There have been instances where dual nationals have been detained at the airport upon arrival until they can resolve their military service issues. 

Faith-Based Travelers: See the following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers

International Volunteers:

• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

Traveling to Play Sports: If you are traveling to play sports in Armenia, remember that you are subject to local laws. Prior to traveling, please understand the terms of your contract and have plans for after your contract ends. If you require legal assistance the U.S. embassy maintains a list of local attorneys. The U.S. Embassy cannot offer legal services.

LGBTQI+ Travelers: There are no antidiscrimination laws protecting lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI+) individuals in Armenia. Although hate crime provisions exist within Armenia’s criminal code, they are not evenly enforced to aid in the prosecution of crimes against LGBTQI+ persons. Individuals face the potential of discrimination and harassment by state and private actors. The Department of State’s Human Rights Report documents that LGBTQI+ persons experienced physical violence, threats of violence, blackmail, and harassment. Police were often unresponsive to reports of abuse against LGBTQI+ individuals and at times, themselves mistreated LGBTQI+ persons.

See the LGBTQI+ travel information page and section six of the Human Rights Report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities: Armenia law prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities but does not fully define “disability.” This law is not consistently enforced. Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is not as prevalent as in the United States. The most common types of accessibility issues may include accessible facilities, access to services, and ease of movement. Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, and general infrastructure, including hospitals, government buildings, and transportation centers. These issues are universal throughout the country, including in Yerevan. There are limited sign language interpreters available. Contact the U.S. Embassy in Armenia to receive this information.

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips.

Women Travelers: Informal taxis pose threats to people unfamiliar with local conditions, especially to women traveling alone. There have been occasional reports of taxi drivers sexually harassing single, female travelers. See our travel tips for women travelers.

Outside major cities, medical facilities in Armenia are limited. The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of English-speaking doctors. Elderly travelers and those with existing health problems may be at risk from inadequate medical facilities.

For emergency services in Armenia, dial 911.

Ambulance services are

• not widely available and training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.
• not present throughout the country or are unreliable in most areas except in Yerevan
• not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment.
• Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.

We highly recommend that all travelers review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Travelers’ Health webpage and general Traveler Advice for Armenia.

• Select your destination in the Travelers’ Health webpage.
  • Review all sub-sections including the Travel Health Notices, Vaccines and Medicines, Non-Vaccine-Preventable Diseases, Stay Healthy and Safe, Healthy Travel Packing List, and After Your Trip.
• Review the Traveler Advice webpage that provide advice on medical considerations including:
  • Reasons for Travel (for example: Adventure Travel, Spring Break Travel)
  • Travelers with Special Considerations (for example: Allergies, Long-Term Travelers and Expatriates)
  • and General Tips (for example: Traveling with Medications, Travel Vaccines)

The risk of diarrheal disease is high throughout Armenia. Food and water precautions are recommended. Additionally, cases of brucellosis from consuming unpasteurized dairy products have been reported.

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance. Payment is made at the time of service with a credit card and then receipts are submitted later.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

The Department of State strongly recommends supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Armenian Ministry of Health or the National Institute of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Armenia.

Vaccinations: Be up to date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The air quality varies considerably and fluctuates with the seasons in Armenia. It is typically at its worst in the winter, with smog and particulate pollution in or near cities. Consider the impact air pollution may have on you and consult your doctor before traveling if necessary. .The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Pharmaceuticals    

• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Armenia Ministry of Health or The National Institute of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Armenia.
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration are responsible for rules governing the transport of medication back to the United States. Medication purchased abroad must meet their requirements to be legally brought back into the United States. Medication should be for personal use and must be approved for usage in the United States. Please visit the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Food and Drug Administration websites for more information.

   Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy

• If you are considering traveling to Armenia to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please see our ART and Surrogacy Abroad page.
• Surrogacy is legal for foreigners in Armenia. For additional information visit the website of Armenia’s Ministry of Health.

Adventure Travel

• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Adventure Travel.

Road Conditions and Safety: The information below is provided for general reference only. Road conditions in Armenia differ significantly from those in the United States. Exercise caution when driving in Armenia. Reckless driving is common. Drivers frequently ignore traffic laws.

• Avoid traveling at night due to poor road conditions and limited emergency response resources. Pedestrians often cross dark streets away from designated pedestrian crossings while wearing dark clothing. U.S. Embassy employees are prohibited from driving at night outside the city limits of Yerevan.
• Yield to aggressive drivers to reduce your risk of being a victim of aggression. Police may seek bribes during traffic stops.
• Winter travel can be hazardous, especially in mountainous areas.
• Practice defensive driving and watch out for drunk drivers, especially on the weekends.
• Primary roads are frequently in poor condition with stretches of missing pavement and large potholes. Some roads shown as primary roads on maps are unpaved and can narrow to one lane. Maps may be inaccurate.
• Secondary roads are normally in poor condition and are often unpaved. Roads may not have signs. Police and emergency medical services may take a long time to reach remote regions.
• Gasoline quality ranges from good, at reliable stations in cities, to very poor. Do not buy gasoline and other fuels sold out of jars, barrels, and trucks by roadside merchants.
• Driver’s licenses from the United States are not valid for driving in Armenia. For more information on obtaining an Armenian driver’s license, please visit this website.
•  Exercise caution on roads near the border with Azerbaijan. Be aware that some portions of the road may cross international boundaries without notice. Roads may be controlled by checkpoints or closed to travelers without notice.

Traffic Laws: In case of an accident, all vehicles must remain in place and stay until the arrival of the police. Tourists should always carry a copy of their passport.

Driving regulations are often ignored by drivers, and, as a result, accidents are common. The driving culture is aggressive. Pedestrians and bicycles may not be granted the right of way.

Public Transportation: Public transportation, while inexpensive, may be unreliable and uncomfortable. Traveling by local unregistered taxis without meters can also prove difficult if a price is not negotiated ahead of time.

See our Road Safety page for more information. Visit Armenia’s national tourist office website.

Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Armenia, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Armenia’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.