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Armenia has become an increasingly attractive destination for foreign professionals, entrepreneurs, IT specialists, and regional workers due to its growing economy and relatively flexible immigration framework. However, not everyone can legally work in Armenia without authorization.
Understanding who needs a work visa or work permit—and who is exempt—is essential to avoid legal issues, fines, or employment bans. This guide explains exactly who requires a work visa to work in Armenia, including non-EU nationals, EAEU citizens, and special exemptions.
Who Needs a Work Visa to Work in Armenia?
In general, most foreign nationals require a work permit and residence authorization to work legally in Armenia. The requirement depends mainly on nationality, employment type, and duration of stay.
Foreign Nationals Who Need a Work Visa
You need a work visa and work permit if you are:
• A non-Armenian citizen planning to work for an Armenian employer
• A non-EAEU national (outside the Eurasian Economic Union)
• Employed under an Armenian employment contract
• Engaged in paid work, long-term projects, or local business activities
• Staying in Armenia beyond short-term business or visitor allowances
This includes workers from countries such as India, Bangladesh, Nepal, the Philippines, African nations, most Asian countries, and non-EU states.
Who Is Exempt from an Armenia Work Visa?
1. Citizens of EAEU Member States
Citizens of Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) countries do not need a work visa or work permit to work in Armenia.
EAEU countries include:
• Russia
• Belarus
• Kazakhstan
• Kyrgyzstan
EAEU nationals can:
• Work in Armenia without a work permit
• Sign employment contracts directly
• Apply only for registration of residence, if required
2. Armenian Permanent Residents
Foreign nationals who already hold:
• Permanent residence status, or
• Special residence status in Armenia
do not need a separate work visa or work permit.
3. Short-Term Business Visitors (Limited Scope)
Individuals entering Armenia for:
• Business meetings
• Negotiations
• Conferences
• Training or internal company meetings
may not require a work visa as long as they do not perform paid local employment.?Once income is generated in Armenia, a work permit becomes mandatory.
Who Must Apply for a Work Permit Before Working?
You must apply for a work permit if you are:
• Hired by an Armenian company
• Working under a long-term or fixed employment contract
• Receiving salary or benefits from an Armenian entity
• Transferring to an Armenian branch of a foreign company
In most cases, the employer initiates the work permit application, followed by the employee applying for a residence permit for employment purposes.
What Happens If You Work Without a Permit?
Working in Armenia without the required authorization may result in:
• Fines for both employee and employer
• Cancellation of residence status
• Deportation or entry bans
• Future visa refusals
Compliance is critical, especially for long-term employment.
Key Takeaways
• Most non-EAEU foreign nationals need a work visa and work permit to work in Armenia
• EAEU citizens are exempt from work permit requirements
• Paid employment without authorization is illegal
• Employers play a central role in work permit sponsorship
• Verification of permit authenticity is strongly recommended before starting work
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration rules in Armenia may change. Applicants should consult official Armenian authorities or qualified immigration professionals before applying.
December 15, 2025
