New rules for obtaining residence permits will come into effect in Armenia on November 1

ArmInfo. Starting November 1, new rules for obtaining residence permits (RP) will come into effect in Armenia. The process is governed by the updated migration procedure. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Applications for RPs are being transferred online through a special platform. Applicants will collect their residence card and certificate in person after providing their fingerprints and electronic signature. Applicants will also be required to pay a state fee, the amount of which will increase significantly: for a temporary RP, the fee will increase from 105,000 to 150,000-155,950 drams, and for a permanent RP, from 140,000 to 250,000 drams. A new fee of 30,000 drams for a certificate confirming legal residence is also being introduced. This fee is charged for document review, so in the event of a refusal, no refund will be given.

Sole proprietors (SPEs) will have to prove their actual business activity in the country, for example, by demonstrating the availability of funds in an account or the corresponding turnover. The RA government is authorized to establish annual quotas for the issuance of residence permits, including for sole proprietors.

Any absence from Armenia for 183 days or more must be notified through the platform no later than 10 days after the expiration of this period. This requirement will not apply to individuals with permanent status based on investment or exceptional merit.

A foreigner will be able to hold only one status confirming legal residence.

As a reminder, a mandatory work visa for employment will be introduced starting January 1, 2027, and will cost 15,000 drams. Ten-year special status will no longer be granted. Applications submitted before November 1, 2026, will be processed according to the old rules. Previously issued documents and statuses will remain valid until their expiration date.