Armenia

Protests and demonstrations can occur in Yerevan, Gyumri and other major cities. They're generally peaceful but can escalate.

To stay safe during periods of unrest:

• avoid the affected areas
• monitor local media and other sources
• follow the advice of local authorities

More information:

• Protests and civil unrest

Conflict zones

The security situation in the region remains unpredictable and could deteriorate with little or no warning.

Armenia and Azerbaijan are currently engaged in a peace process. We recommend you, do not travel to within 5kms of Armenia's border with Azerbaijan.

The border areas between Armenia and Azerbaijan contain mines and unexploded ordnance. The police or military forces will likely stop anyone venturing within 5km of these borders. Some parts of the Armenia and Azerbaijan border haven't been agreed between the states.

Cars and other vehicles on the roads from Kayan and Ijevan to Noyemberyan could be attacked. 

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. 

Take official warnings seriously.

To protect yourself from terrorism:

• be alert to possible threats in public places
• take care near areas known to be possible terrorist targets
• report suspicious behaviour
• alert police to unattended bags
• monitor the media for updates
• follow the advice of local authorities

If there’s a terrorist incident, leave the area if it’s safe to do so and follow the instructions of local authorities. 

More information:

• Terrorism

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft from cars, is common. Be careful on trains to and from Georgia.

Always exercise caution when dealing with local police and officials, harassment, mistreatment and extortion by police or other local officials have occurred.

To protect yourself from petty crime:

• look after your belongings, particularly in crowded places
• always lock your car doors
• park your car in a secure facility if possible
• monitor local media for crime news

Drink spiking

Methanol poisoning

Cyber security 

Armenia is in an active earthquake zone. Landslides and flooding may occur.

In 2024, severe flooding affected the provinces of Tavush and Lori at the border with Georgia, causing deaths, mass evacuation, significant infrastructure damage and transport disruptions.

To protect yourself if there's a natural disaster or severe weather:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• keep in contact with your friends and family
• check media for updates and follow the instructions of local authorities
• register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System to receive alerts on major disasters.

Foodborne, waterborne and other infectious diseases are common, including these listed by the World Health Organization:

• typhoid
• hepatitis
• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

HIV/AIDS is a risk. Take precautions if you engage in activities that may expose you to the virus.

Ask your doctor about health risks and vaccines before you go.

More information

• Infectious diseases

There’s no agreement between Australia and Armenia for free healthcare. Tourists must pay for all medical care, even if they need to stay in hospital or be evacuated. This can be very expensive. Make sure your travel insurance covers you. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

Standards in public hospitals are basic, especially outside Yerevan.

If you become ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated. 

When you travel to another country, you must follow their laws. Even if they seem strict compared to Australia's. Before you go, learn about the local laws in that country.

The Australian Government is limited in how and when we can help if you're arrested overseas. We can't get you out of trouble or out of jail. Understand our limits. Read the Consular Services Charter.

Law enforcement agencies cooperate closely with agencies in Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries. If you commit an offence in one of these countries, you may be detained in another (including at the border) and extradited for prosecution.

Drugs

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include long prison sentences.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Other laws

Always carry a copy of your passport. Police can stop you to check your documents.

It's illegal to take photos of:

• government or military sites
• monuments
• officers in uniform

Some Australian laws still apply even if you’re in another country. You could be charged in Australia if you break these laws overseas.

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Armenia recognises dual nationality.

Ask the Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs about nationality laws.

You must enter and exit the country using your Armenian passport if you're a dual national. This limits the consular services we can give if you're arrested or detained.

You could be subject to military service if you're a male dual national aged 18 to 28. Check with the nearest embassy or consulate of Armenia well before you travel.

More information:

• Advice for dual nationals

Same-sex relationships are legal, but aren't widely accepted.

Discrimination against the LGBQTIA+ community is widespread. Avoid public displays of affection.

More information:

• Advice for LGBQTIA+ travellers

Visas

You don't need a visa for Armenia if you're staying for up to 180 days per year.

If you're staying longer than 180 days per year, you must obtain a relevant resident card from the Migration and Citizenship Service of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Armenia. Resident card processing may take up to 30 days. Ensure that you apply well in advance. 

Visa and other entry and exit conditions, such as currency, customs and quarantine regulations, can change at short notice. To get the latest details, contact either:

• the nearest embassy or consulate of Armenia
• the Armenian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Import and export regulations

Strict rules apply to the import and export of:

• antiques
• firearms
• pornographic material
• communication equipment
• cash amounts of USD10,000 and over or equivalent in other currency

You need approval from the Armenian Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports to export antiques or other items that could have historical value, including paintings, old books and carpets.

Keep receipts for all items. You may need to show them to customs officials when you leave.

More information:

• State Revenue Committee of Armenia
• Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports of Armenia

Validity

Lost or stolen passport

Passport with X gender identifier 

The local currency is the Armenian Dram (AMD).

Strict rules apply to importing and exporting cash amounts of USD 10,000 or over (or equivalent).

US dollars and euros can be exchanged at banks.

ATMs and credit card facilities are available in Yerevan but are less common outside major towns.

More information:

• State Revenue Committee of Armenia

Armenia's land borders with Azerbaijan and Türkiye are closed. Don't attempt to cross the border with Azerbaijan. Travelling in the region can be difficult. You'll need to plan ahead.

Driving permit

To drive, you need both:

• a valid International Driving Permit (IDP)
• a valid Australian driver's licence (digital driver’s licences may not be accepted)

Get your IDP before you leave Australia.

Driving without an IDP could void your travel and vehicle insurance.

Road travel

Driving in Armenia can be dangerous. Make sure you understand local road rules.

Check if your travel insurance will cover you for driving.

Roads and land crossing points can close at short notice. Get local advice on different routes.

More information:

• Driving or riding

Taxis

Use registered taxis and authorised limousines.

Ask your hotel to arrange a taxi for you. Don't hail taxis in the street. 

Air travel

In 2022, the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) issued a ‘red notice’ highlighting significant safety concerns with all Russian airlines.  Several countries, including the United States and the European Union, have banned Russian air carriers from their airspace.  If you choose to fly with a Russian airline, check your insurance provisions and understand the risks associated with flying on Russian airlines.

Check Armenia's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue

Call 101.

Medical emergencies

Call 103.

Police

Call 102 or contact the nearest police station.

Call 112 or 911 for the emergency hotline.

Armenian emergency services may take a long time to reach remote regions.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

The Australian Government aims to provide high quality consular assistance. There are limits to what we can do. Read the Consular Services Charter to understand how we can assist you overseas.

Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Armenia.

Contact the Australian Embassy in Russia for consular assistance.

Australian Embassy, Moscow

13 Kropotkinsky Pereulok
Moscow 119034
Russia

Phone: +7 495 956-6070
Website: russia.embassy.gov.au
X: @PosolAustralia

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia