Armenia

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 112 or 911 for police.
• Dial 103 or 112 for ambulance.
• Dial 0800 80 850 for toll-free domestic violence hotline.

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)

Demonstrations

Demonstrations occur from time to time in response to political or economic issues, on significant holidays, and during large events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Crime

Crime is relatively low, and violent crime is infrequent.

• Vehicle break-ins and theft are rare but are the most common crimes.
• Pickpocketing may occur during large festivals.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

Financial scams and internet romance scams

Financial scams and internet romance scams are common in Armenia. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money.

Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers frequently pretend to be U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help.

Common scams:

• Online dating
• Credit card fraud
• ATM card skimming
• Money transfers
• Lucrative sales
• Gold purchase
• Contracts with promises of large commissions
• Grandparent or relative targeting (kidnapping, arrested, medical emergency)
• Free Trip or free luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits or job offers
• Bank overpayments

Tips to avoid scammers:

• Set up a phone call or 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.
• Look for red flags:
  • Their location is far away
  • Their profile was recently created
  • Seems to be too good to be true
  • The pace of the relationship is moving too quickly
  • They ask for money

If using dating apps or websites in Armenia:

• Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone. 
• Meet in a popular public place.
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person.
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule. 

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 112.

Review our information for Victims of Crime. 

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care. 
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system. 
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault or domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.
• Resources in English are limited, but Armenian NGOs help victims of domestic violence or sexual assault, primarily women and children.
• The U.S. embassy has received reports of unwanted touching in crowds during large festivals and events. 

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications. 
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• U.S. citizens have no reasonable expectation of privacy in Armenia.
• The Armenian government may monitor phone calls and electronic communications at any time without notice. Do not share sensitive information.

GPS

Prior to using GPS abroad:

• Research the safety of the route recommended by the GPS.
• Be cautious near border regions, especially the border with Iran. The fastest path may not be the safest. Some roads may cross into Iran with little or no warning. 
• Roads in Armenia are generally good, but be aware that roads in rural areas may be unpaved and require a vehicle with high clearance.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare.
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs.
• Not all staff may be trained or certified.
• Every city has a hospital or medical center where first aid can be provided, however, travel to the capital may be required for serious injuries.
• First responders cannot immediately reach all remote areas in case of emergencies.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance. 

Adventure travel

Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tips for Adventure Travel.

Eastern border with Azerbaijan

Never hike or drive off-road near this border. The area has unexploded ordnances and landmines. Maps and GPS apps often do not show where the border is. Crossing the border can lead to detention or death.

Southern border with Iran

 The area is patrolled by Russian border guards who may detain you for crossing into unmarked restricted areas near the border.

Mountain conditions

Many hiking trails are poorly marked or not maintained. Weather in the Caucasus Mountains can change quickly. Winter brings heavy snow and avalanches. Summer brings extreme heat and wildfires.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, unable to leave, or imprisoned.  

• Before you start a business or a profession in Armenia seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required. 
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.

Drugs and medications

• Possession, trafficking, or the use of narcotic drugs, including marijuana, are illegal. Even what is considered a minor quantity of drugs in the U.S. can result in arrests and prosecutions in Armenia.
• A prescription for medical marijuana will not protect you from prosecution.
• Electronic cigarettes and related paraphernalia may be perceived as drug related. 
• Armenia does not allow the import of various psychotropic drugs, including some medications available in the United States by prescription. For a list of prohibited drugs and medications, please review Aremnia’s State Revenue Committee.

Customs regulations

• Customs authorities may enforce regulations concerning the import and 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 Ministry of Education, Science, Culture, and Sports of Armenia.

Military service

• Armenian males over age 18, including dual nationals, must serve in the military. Penalties for avoiding military service include jail time and large fines.
• Young dual-citizen U.S.-Armenian men should contact the Embassy of the Republic of Armenia before traveling.

Arrest notification

If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately. 

You can be detained for up to 72 hours while an investigation takes place.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• 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 or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States. 

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice  

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources: 

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Armenia. 

• Armenia has no laws that protect lesbian and gay individuals from discrimination.
• Armenia’s hate crime laws exist but are not consistently enforced to prosecute crimes against lesbian and gay people.
• Lesbian and gay individuals may face discrimination and harassment from  government officials and private citizens. Public attitudes are often very hostile.
• Lesbian and gay people have experienced physical violence, threats, blackmail, and harassment.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

Armenian law prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, psychosocial, intellectual, or mental disabilities. However, the law is not consistently enforced.

• Expect accessibility to be limited for public transportation, lodging, communication, and general infrastructure.
• Accessibility is almost entirely unavailable outside of the capital city, Yerevan. Even within Yerevan, navigating is difficult due to uneven sidewalks, lack of curb cutouts, missing pedestrian crosswalk signals, and inaccessible public transportation (buses and metro).
• The most common types of accessibility may include newly constructed, larger public buildings and international hotels in the capital city, which sometimes feature ramps or elevators.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers 

• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Armenia Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency phone numbers

• Dial 103 or 112 for emergency medical services.

Ambulance services

• Emergency medical services across Armenia have similar training levels. However, equipment quality varies. Rural areas often have limited or older medical equipment compared to Yerevan.
• Yerevan has private ambulance services run by some hospitals. These may be faster or have better medical equipment, but they charge a fee. 
• Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital. This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses abroad.  Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in in Armenia. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Most hospitals accept payment only by credit card.
• Both private and public hospitals often need payment up front or proof of good insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient. 
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
• If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider. Follow their instructions for filing claims.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

Health facilities are available in Yerevan and other major cities. Equipment quality in rural areas may vary.

• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Elderly travelers and those with existing health problems may be at risk from inadequate medical facilities in rural areas.
• Public medical clinics often lack basic resources and supplies.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• In public hospitals only minimal staff is available overnight in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse. Another option is to have family stay the night with the patient, especially a child.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities and especially in English.

Medical tourism and elective surgery

Medical tourism is a fast-growing industry in Armenia. Common procedures include rhinoplasty, dental work, and cosmetic procedures.

• If you want healthcare abroad, you need to know that their medical systems are different from the United States. They don't follow the same rules.
• Before you travel for medical reasons, talk to your doctor.
• Visit the CDC’s Medical Tourism website for information on medical tourism. Find out about the risks of medical tourism and what you can do to prepare before traveling to Armenia.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation in the event of unforeseen medical complications. 
• Your legal options in case of malpractice may be severely limited in Armenia. Malpractice lawsuits are not common, and the legal framework is not as robust as in the United States.
• Although Armenia has many elective or cosmetic surgery facilities, the quality of care varies widely. If you plan to undergo surgery in Armenia, make sure that emergency medical facilities are available, and professionals are accredited and qualified.

Prescription medications

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

• Check with the Armenia Ministry of Health to ensure the medication is legal in Armenia.
• Armenia does not allow the importation of various psychotropic drugs, certain sleeping pills, and medications containing codeine, even with a prescription. Avoid carrying these restricted substances without prior authorization. Please review Armenia's rules on medication by contacting the nearest Armenian Embassy or checking with the Ministry of Health of the Repubic of Armenia before you travel. 
• Not all medications, including some common medications, are available in Armenia. If you require medication, bring enough medication in the original bottle to cover your entire trip.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.  If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy

• If you are considering traveling to Armenia to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.   
• Surrogacy is legal for foreigners in Armenia.  Processing of CRBAs for ART-related cases may take longer if DNA testing is requested.
• For additional information visit the website of Armenia’s Ministry of Health.

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water is generally safe to drink and use in cooking in Yerevan and other major cities.
• In rural areas, tap water is not always safe to drink.
• In some locations, tap water is not available every day.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested.
• Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits can make you sick, especially if purchased at rural open-air markets and not washed with safe water or peeled.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling if you are traveling in remote locations and are doubtful about the local water source.

Altitude

Many tourist destinations and mountainous regions in Armenia are at high altitude. This includes Mount Aragats, the Geghama Mountains, and Lake Kari.

• Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take precautions before you travel.
• If you have a pre-existing medical condition, like diabetes or high blood pressure, talk with your doctor before traveling to high altitude cities like Mount Aragats.
• Visit the CDC website for more information about Travel to High Altitudes.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• 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.
• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Yerevan.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

Road conditions in Armenia are different from those in the United States.  Exercise caution when driving in Armenia.

• 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 1 lane. Maps may be inaccurate.
• Secondary roads are normally in poor condition and often unpaved.

Risks at border areas

• Use extreme caution on roads near the borders with Azerbaijan and Iran. Some parts of the road may cross international boundaries without notice.
• Roads may have checkpoints or be closed without notice.

Driving safety

• Be careful on the main highway from Yerevan to the resort areas of Tsaghkadzor and Sevan. Traffic is heavy and drivers are reckless.
• Avoid driving at night. Roads are in poor condition and emergency help is limited. Pedestrians often cross dark streets away from crosswalks while wearing dark clothing.
• Winter travel can be dangerous, especially in mountainous areas.  Winter tires are required for all cars from November to April.
• Local driving is often chaotic and reckless driving is common. Yield to aggressive drivers to reduce your risk of conflict.

Emergency preparedness

• Roadside assistance networks are almost non-existent outside of major cities. Police and ambulances may take a very long time to reach remote regions.
• Emergency response is limited and gasoline quality varies. If driving outside Yerevan, carry a spare tire, basic tools, emergency flares, warm blankets, and extra food and water.
• Only buy fuel at reliable stations in cities. Do not buy gasoline or other fuels sold in jars, barrels, or trucks by roadside sellers.

Traffic laws 

Driving with a foreign driver’s license is allowed for up to three months from the date you entered Armenia s. You must get an International Driving Permit (IDP) before you arrive. If you are staying long-term, you must apply for a local Armenian driver's license.

If you are involved in an accident

• Dial 112 for police.
• Do not move your vehicle, even if it is blocking traffic.
• Armenian law strictly requires that all vehicles remain exactly in place until the traffic police arrive to document the scene and issue an official report.
• Moving your vehicle before the police arrive will make you legally at fault and cancels your insurance coverage.

Taxis and ride-shares

Local ride-sharing applications are widely available, trusted and generally considered the safest and most reliable way to get around in major Armenian cities.

• Standard street taxis are available, but the vehicles are often older, in poor condition, and frequently lack working seatbelts in the back seat. 
• Negotiate a price ahead of time before traveling in local unregistered taxis without meters. 
• Unregistered taxis may overcharge you at airports.

Public and commercial transportation

Public transportation is inexpensive,  it may be unreliable and uncomfortable. Pickpocketing can occur. Travel by public transportation outside of major cities can be unpredictable due to poor regional road conditions and a lack of fixed timetables.

• In Yerevan, the metro is generally safe, inexpensive, and a reliable way to avoid city traffic. However, the metro network is geographicallylimited.
• Minibuses (known locally as marshrutkas) and public city buses are the most common forms of public transportation. They are frequently overcrowded, poorly maintained, and lack seatbelts.
• Minibus drivers may engage in unsafe driving practices, such as stopping suddenly in traffic to pick up passengers.
• Intercity trains are aging and slow, but generally safe, though schedules can be unreliable.
• Visit the website of Armenia’s national tourist office, Armenia Travel, and the national authority responsible for road infrastructure and safety, the Road Department Fund.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Armenia’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.  

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

Earthquakes

• Armenia is in an active earthquake zone and experiences frequent tremors. Large, highly destructive earthquakes can happen at any time of year without warning.

Landslides and mudslides

• Heavy rainfall and snowmelt often trigger landslides and mudslides. These can quickly block mountain passes, destroy rural roads, and cut off remote villages. They are most likely to happen April to June, and October to November.

Flooding

• Rapid snowmelt and heavy rains regularly cause rivers to overflow in spring (April to June), leading to flooding in valleys and low-lying areas.

Severe winter weather and avalanches

• Mountains experience heavy snowfall, blizzards, and icy conditions that frequently make roads impassable. Avalanche risk is high from December to March for backcountry skiers and hikers.

Droughts and wildfires

• Extreme heat and lack of rain in summer (July to September) often lead to droughts and increased wildfire risk, especially in central and southern regions.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates