Temporary Visa Exemption for GCC Residents: What Armenian Market Opportunities Mean for Your Business
Yerevan, Armenia – The Republic of Armenia has introduced a temporary visa exemption for eligible foreign nationals, effective from January 1 to July 1, 2026. This new policy facilitates easier travel to Armenia for residents of 113 countries.
Under the exemption, travelers holding a valid residence permit from the United States, European Union member states, Schengen Area countries, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, or Oman can enter Armenia without a visa. Eligible visitors are allowed to stay for up to 180 days within one year, provided their residence permit remains valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
The initiative aims to enhance tourism, strengthen connectivity, and promote a wide range of travel purposes, from short city breaks and family visits to business trips and extended explorations.
Lusine Gevorgyan, Chairman of the Tourism Committee of Armenia, stated, “This decision is a clear invitation to travelers around the world. Armenia is open and welcoming, and we look forward to sharing our culture, landscapes, and hospitality with more visitors throughout 2026.”
Travelers can enjoy diverse experiences, including Yerevan’s vibrant café culture, museums, hiking trails, and UNESCO World Heritage sites, all available year-round.
Visitors must present their residence permit either as a physical card or as a passport sticker. Border authorities will accept residence permits if they include, in Latin script, the document title, the foreign national’s given name, surname, nationality, date of birth, and validity period, all indicated according to the Gregorian calendar (e.g., 18.06.2027).
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
Armenia’s new visa exemption for residents of Oman and other countries presents a strategic opportunity for Omani businesses in tourism, hospitality, and travel services to tap into increased outbound travel to Armenia. Smart investors should consider partnerships or travel packages targeting this market, while entrepreneurs could explore niche offerings that cater to Omani travelers seeking cultural and leisure experiences abroad. However, businesses must also be aware of evolving travel regulations and ensure compliance to capitalize on this trend effectively.
