Armenia Postpones Work Visa and Immigration Reforms to 2026

Armenia is on track to completely revamp its immigration framework, fundamentally altering the entry and living conditions for foreign workers.

The implementation of these reforms was initially planned for August 1, 2026. However, officials have now delayed the launch. The updated regulations will officially become effective on November 1, 2026.

These modifications will establish a new work visa framework, online applications for residence permits, employer disclosure rules, and a cap on foreign labor. These reforms are designed to transform the way foreign professionals and employers manage the immigration procedures in Armenia.

Armenia to Unveil a New Work Visa Structure

A significant alteration involves the introduction of a specific work visa for foreign individuals.

Currently, Armenia lacks a specialized work visa. Numerous foreign workers enter the nation on a tourist visa, which allows for limited work while they seek residence permits.

As per the new legislation:

• Foreign employees must secure a work visa prior to applying for a temporary residence permit that allows work
• This visa will facilitate single or multiple entries
• It will allow for stays of up to 120 days each year
• The application fee will amount to AMD 15,000

This shift introduces an extra requirement for foreign workers. In simple terms, individuals wishing to work in Armenia will now need two levels of authorization: securing a work visa initially, followed by a residence permit.

Elimination of Labour Market Testing

A further significant adjustment is the removal of labour market testing from the work authorization process.

Currently, employers are required to validate that no local worker is available for a position before they can recruit a foreign employee.

This stipulation will be lifted once the new laws come into effect.

For employers, this will streamline the process of hiring global talent. They will no longer need to explain their rationale for opting to hire an international worker over a local candidate.

Nevertheless, this adjustment is counterbalanced by another regulation that may restrict hiring opportunities.

Armenia to Implement Annual Foreign Worker Limit

The government plans to establish a national cap on foreign workers. Presently, there is no limitation on the number of foreign employees that businesses may employ in Armenia.

With the new immigration policies, a yearly limit will be instituted. Officials have not revealed the precise figures or how this limit will be allocated among various sectors.

Depending on its enactment, this regulation could complicate the recruitment of foreign talent in industries that heavily depend on international workers.

Residence Permit Applications Shift to Full Online Submission

Another practical makeover concerns the submission process for residence permits. Moving forward:

• All applications for residence permits must be submitted digitally
• Physical or in-person submissions will no longer be allowed
• Work-related permits will be submitted via a government portal
• Other types of residence permits will be processed through a different website

The primary objective is to enhance the efficiency of the system. Applicants will be able to monitor their application status online instead of making visits to migration offices.

This should lessen long wait times and paperwork for foreign residents.

Updated Investment Conditions for Business-Related Residence Permits

The new legislation also brings forth clear financial prerequisites for foreigners seeking residence permits via entrepreneurial activities.

Applicants must satisfy one of the following criteria:

• Make a minimum investment of AMD 2,000,000 in capital, shares, or bonds within Armenia
• Register as an individual entrepreneur and demonstrate at least AMD 1,000,000 or show the same amount in business revenue in the preceding 60 days

Under the existing regulations, there are no established minimum investment amounts. This often leads to ambiguity, as acceptances are dependent on the migration authorities’ judgment.

The new limits are intended to render the process more straightforward.

New Guidelines for Changing Employers

Holders of temporary residence permits will encounter new disclosure obligations.

If a foreign worker transitions to a different employer, they must:

• Inform Armenian authorities within 15 working days
• Provide their new employment agreement through an online platform

Currently, no formal requirement exists for notifying changes in employment.

This implies that foreign workers and employers will need to ensure compliance more vigilantly.

Tighter Regulations for Extended Absences From Armenia

Another adjustment pertains to the duration foreign residents can remain outside of Armenia.

• Temporary and permanent residence permit holders must notify authorities if they spend more than 183 days outside Armenia in a 365-day timeframe

A similar stipulation exists presently, but it is anticipated that officials will enforce it more stringently once the new policies take effect.

Other Modifications Foreign Residents Should Be Aware Of

The immigration overhaul encompasses several additional updates:

1. Biometric Residence Cards

Foreign nationals will need to return to Armenia to finish biometric procedures, including:

• Fingerprint collection
• Electronic signature creation
• In-person pickup of the residence card

2. Direct Residency for Investors

Foreign investors and individuals with extraordinary capabilities will be able to apply directly for permanent residence, bypassing the temporary permit phase.

3. Special Permit for Researchers and Innovators

A special temporary residence permit will be introduced for individuals engaged in scientific or innovative endeavors who have a contract with an accredited research organization within Armenia.

4. Termination of the Special Residence Status

The existing 10-year Special Residence Status permit will be discontinued. Current permits issued prior to the reform will continue to remain valid until they lapse.

Implications of These Changes for Foreign Workers

Armenia’s immigration reforms are aimed at updating the system and clarifying various processes. Nevertheless, the new regulations introduce extra steps, particularly the newly mandated work visa and enhanced reporting requirements.

For international professionals and companies aiming to operate in Armenia, the pivotal date to note is November 1, 2026, when the new immigration regulations officially come into force.

Individuals considering relocating to Armenia in the upcoming year should stay well-informed about updates, especially regarding the forthcoming foreign worker quota and online application systems.