ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

A visa is required – you can obtain an e-Visa.

VISA INFORMATION

  • Valid Passport (travel document)
  • Completed Visa Application Form.
  • Passport-size Photo (3,5×4.5cm).
  • Supporting Documents:
    • Air ticket.
    • Hotel reservation.
    • Proof of financial means (e.g., bank statement).
    • Health/travel insurance.
  • Copy of passport pages with visas/resident cards from the last 3 years (if any).
  • Any other relevant supporting documents.
  • Visa Fee Payment.
  • All items listed under Basic Requirements.
  • All items listed under Basic Requirements.
  • Requires invitation letter from the host company and supporting documents.
  • Visitor visa (up to 21 days of stay) / Non-refundable fee: USD 6
  • Visitor visa (up to 120 days of stay) / Non-refundable fee: USD 30
  • A maximum of 120 days with the possibility to extend for another 60 days.
  • Stays no longer than 180 days for one year.

There is no Embassy or Consulate for Armenia in South Africa.

WEATHER

Armenia has hot summers in the valleys, cooler weather in the highlands, and cold, snowy winters. Spring and autumn are mild and colourful, making them the best times to visit.

  • Spring (March to May): Spring in Armenia is fresh and colourful, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. Blossoming apricot and cherry trees brighten the countryside, and the weather is ideal for exploring Yerevan, ancient monasteries, and the scenic countryside. Rain is possible, especially in April.
  • Summer (June to August): Summers are warm to hot, with temperatures between 25°C and 35°C in lower areas. The highlands remain cooler, making them perfect for hiking and visiting Lake Sevan. July and August are the driest months, though heat can be intense in the Ararat Valley.
  • Autumn (September to November): Autumn is mild and dry, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. The landscapes turn golden and crimson, especially in the wine-growing regions, making it an excellent season for cultural tours and wine festivals.
  • Winter (December to February): Winters are cold, with temperatures often below 0°C, especially in the mountains. Snowfall is common, creating great skiing opportunities in Tsaghkadzor. Cities like Yerevan are cold but atmospheric with winter festivities.
  • Best Time to Travel: Spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather for sightseeing. Summer is great for highland adventures, while winter is ideal for skiing and festive experiences.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Country: The Republic of Armenia
Capital City: Yerevan
International Airports: Zvartnots International Airport (EVN)
Area: 29,743 sq km (11,483.8 sq mi)
Population: 3 million (2025 est.)
Time Zone: GMT+4
Religion: Christianity
Language: Armenian
Currency: Armenian Dram (AMD)
Exchange Rate: 1 AMD = 0,0026 USD
Credit Card Payment Availability: Yes
ATM Accessibility: Visa and MasterCard
Dialling Code: +374

TRAVEL TIPS

Electricity: Type C and F, 230V
Water: Tap water is safe to drink in big cities but bottled is preferable.
Business Hours: 09:00-18:00
Banking Hours: Mon-Fri 09:00-18:00
Photography Restrictions: Restrictions on sites of military importance.
Tipping: 10-20%
Vaccination Requirements: None
Dress Code Restrictions: None
Peculiar Customs to Observe: – Guests are traditionally welcomed with lavash (flatbread) and salt as a sign of hospitality.
– Shoes are removed when entering homes, and slippers are often provided.
– At gatherings, a toastmaster leads long toasts, and it’s polite to finish your glass.
– Hospitality is highly valued, and refusing food or drink can seem impolite.
– At weddings, the bride’s shoes are “stolen” and returned only after a playful ransom is paid.
– Plates may be broken at celebrations to bring good luck and ward off evil.
– Visitors often cross themselves or bow slightly when entering churches.
– Whistling indoors is believed to attract financial misfortune.
– Christmas is celebrated on January 6th instead of December 25th.

FESTIVALS

  • Dolma Festival (May)
  • Carpet Festival (2-nd Saturday of August)
  • Festival of honey and berries (August)
  • Wine Festival (October)

MAP

“Armenia is a land where stones have stories, and skies echo ancient songs.”

– Anthony Bourdain