Use of new passports to bring Armenia closer to visa liberalization  with EU

ArmInfo.  The introduction of a new biometric passport system in Armenia requires the adoption of relevant legislation. At the extraordinary session of the National  Assembly of the Republic of Armenia on May 11, the first session will  discuss the draft law "On Identity Documents" and a package of  amendments to related documents.

According to RA Interior Minister Arpine Sargsyan, the process of  introducing biometric passports and ID cards is being carried out  according to the logic of public-private partnership, which is also  reflected in the package. Overall, the use of new passports and ID  cards will bring Armenia closer to visa liberalization with the  European Union. The EU recently commissioned a statement on the need  for Yerevan to adopt a law "On Identity Documents," which will allow  for legislative resolution of existing issues.

The document outlines all regulations regarding passport circulation.  According to the draft law, all Armenian citizens over 16 years of  age must have an identification card. Only with this card can a  person obtain a biometric passport. Individuals aged 6 to 16 will  also be issued special identification cards, while those under 6 will  be issued birth certificates.

Sargsyan also noted that all travel documents for Armenian citizens  abroad are being brought into compliance with International Civil  Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. Identification cards are  planned to be used domestically, while biometric passports will be  used for travel abroad.  Biometric passports will also be issued to  refugees and asylum seekers in the country.