The visa exemption, effective from Jan. 1 through July 1, 2026, applies to Indian passport holders who possess valid residence permits from qualifying countries including the U.S., European Union member states, Schengen Area nations, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Oman. The permit must have at least six months of validity remaining upon entry into Armenia.
Armenian authorities said the move is part of a broader effort to attract visitors during the early 2026 shoulder season, when tourism often slows after winter. It covers nationals of 113 countries meeting the residence criteria and allows stays of up to 180 days within a one-year period, provided entry occurs within the specified window.
“This temporary visa-free regime reflects our commitment to fostering openness and improved mobility,” the Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated in a release, highlighting opportunities for extended tourism, family visits and business exploration in sectors like IT outsourcing and fintech.
Travelers must present their residence permit — either a physical card or passport sticker — upon arrival. Those without qualifying permits, including Indians residing elsewhere, must still apply for a standard visa. Overstaying the 180-day limit or entering outside the Jan. 1-July 1 period could result in fines or future entry bans.
The policy has generated buzz on travel forums, with Indian travelers inquiring about border crossings from neighboring Georgia and confirming eligibility for UAE residents. Discussions on platforms like Reddit’s r/armenia and Facebook travel groups highlight excitement over simplified trips to explore Yerevan’s cobblestone streets and ancient mountain monasteries. On X, users have shared updates on the exemption, noting its appeal for diaspora communities in the GCC.
Armenia, nestled in the Caucasus region, offers picturesque landscapes from snow-capped Mount Ararat to historic sites like the Khor Virap monastery.
