Armenia travel info
Electricity
The electrical current in Armenia is 230 volts, 50Hz. Round, two-pin attachment plugs and Schuko plugs are in use.
Language
Armenian is the official language and has its own alphabet. Russian is widely spoken; English is increasingly common.
Money
The official currency of Armenia is the Dram (AMD), which is divided into 100 luma, though luma coins are rarely used today. Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks and currency exchange offices, with US dollars and euros being the most easily exchanged. Notes should be clean and undamaged.
Credit cards are widely accepted in Yerevan and other major cities, especially in shops, restaurants and hotels. Apple Pay and Google Pay are also supported at many contactless payment terminals, particularly in urban areas. However, it's still a good idea to carry some cash, as smaller businesses, rural shops, and markets may not accept cards or digital payments.
ATMs are widely available in cities and towns. It's advisable to carry small-denomination dram notes, as vendors and markets often have limited change.
Tipping
Many restaurants in Yerevan may include a service charge on the bill, but this doesn't always go to the staff. Tipping is appreciated in Armenia, and around 10 percent is considered standard when no service charge is added.
Health
There are no required vaccinations for entry into Armenia, but it's a good idea for travellers to consider hepatitis A and B shots, especially if they're staying for a while or visiting rural areas. In Yerevan, the tap water is generally safe, but most visitors still prefer to drink bottled or filtered water, just to be cautious. Outside the capital, water quality can vary more.
Medical care in Yerevan is decent, particularly in private clinics, but facilities in smaller towns and rural areas are limited. For anything serious, it's best to seek treatment abroad. Travellers should have comprehensive travel insurance that includes emergency medical evacuation, just in case.
Anyone taking prescription medication should bring enough for the trip, packed in its original packaging and with a doctor's note, especially for controlled substances.
Safety
Crime levels in Armenia are relatively low, and most visits are trouble-free. Still, travellers should take normal precautions, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and concealing valuables. Pickpocketing can occur in busy places such as markets or public transport; travel near the border with Azerbaijan is not advised, due to ongoing tensions and occasional security incidents in those areas.
Local customs
Armenia is a deeply Christian country, and the Armenian Apostolic Church is an important part of its culture. People tend to be quite traditional, especially outside of Yerevan. Travellers are generally respected, but dressing modestly is a good idea in smaller towns and villages. Women may feel more comfortable avoiding shorts or short skirts in these areas.
Taking photos of military sites or soldiers is not allowed and can get visitors into trouble.
Homosexuality is legal in Armenia, but open expressions of LGBTQ+ identity may not be widely accepted, especially outside the capital. While Yerevan has a more open atmosphere, visitors should still be mindful of local attitudes.
Doing business
Business in Armenia is generally formal, especially in traditional industries or government. People tend to dress conservatively, with suits for men and modest business wear for women. Most businesses operate Monday to Friday, from 9am to 6pm, though hours can vary.
Punctuality is appreciated but meetings don't always start on time. Visitors should use titles and last names unless invited to do otherwise; building personal relationships is important, and meetings often include tea, coffee or even food as a sign of hospitality.
While Armenian is the official language, Russian is still widely spoken in business, especially by older professionals. English is becoming more common, particularly in tech and among younger people.
Duty free
The duty-free allowance for travellers entering Armenia includes 400 cigarettes, 2 litres of alcohol, perfume up to 5kg or valued at USD 500, and personal items worth up to USD 500. Prohibited imports include narcotics, pornographic materials, and fruits or vegetables without valid documentation.
Communications
The international dialling code for Armenia is +374. Most accommodations offer free WiFi, with good internet speeds in cities and towns, though connections can be slower in rural areas. Travellers with unlocked phones can easily buy local SIM cards, which are affordable and widely available.
Passport & Visa
All passports must be valid for the duration of the stay and it's recommended to have at least six months' validity beyond the date of departure. Travellers who need a visa should apply in advance at an Armenian embassy or consulate. Citizens of some countries can obtain a visa on arrival at Zvartnots Airport and certain other entry points, valid for up to 120 days, provided they have proof of onward travel and sufficient funds. The visa fee is 3,000 Armenian drams for up to 21 days or 15,000 drams for up to 120 days and must be paid in local currency only.
Entry requirements
US nationals require a passport that's valid for the duration of their stay. A visa is not required for stays of up to 180 days.
UK citizens require a passport that's valid for the duration of their stay. They do not require a visa for stays of up to 180 days.
Canadians require a passport that's valid for the duration of their stay and a visa for entry to Armenia. Visa on arrival is not available; an e-visa must be obtained before travel.
Australians require a passport that's valid for the duration of their stay. Nationals of Australia are visa exempt for stays of up to 180 days.
South Africans require a passport that's valid for the duration of their stay and a visa for entry to Armenia. Visa on arrival is not available; an e-visa must be obtained before travel.
Irish nationals require a passport that's valid for the duration of their stay. No visa is required for stays of up to 180 days.
Nationals of New Zealand require a passport that's valid for the duration of their stay. New Zealanders are visa exempt for stays of up to 180 days.
Useful contacts
Tourism Committee of Armenia: www.armenia.travel/en
101 (Fire), 102 (Police), 103 (Medical Emergency).