Risk level

Safety and security

Border areas

The Government of Canada’s ability to provide consular services in areas along the international borders with Azerbaijan is extremely limited.

Azerbaijan

The security environment remains highly volatile at the eastern border between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

There have been periodic outbreaks of violence in these areas for several decades and, while there have been no major incidents since Azerbaijan’s military operations in September 2023, tensions remain heightened. As part of the ongoing tensions between Azerbaijan and Armenia, there are also occasional ceasefire violations and clashes on the Nakhchivan border.

All border crossings into Azerbaijan are closed and the border is heavily militarized.

Armed clashes occur occasionally at multiple points along the international border, including near the following Armenian cities:

• Sotk
• Tegh
• Goris
• Jermuk
• Kapan

Border areas with Azerbaijan are subject to extremely dangerous military activities, such as:

• mortar and artillery shelling
• rocket fire
• drone attacks
• heavy gunfire
• landmines

If you choose to travel near the border with Azerbaijan despite this advisory:

• exercise caution at all times
• avoid travelling at night
• monitor local and international media to stay informed on current clashes
• follow instructions from local authorities and security forces

Türkiye

The land border between Türkiye and Armenia is closed.

Iran

The border crossing near the Armenian town of Meghri is the only official access to Iran from Armenia.

Russian border guards are present along the border and have set up several checkpoints to deter smuggling and other illegal activities into Armenia from Iran. 

Iran’s military occasionally conducts operations in the area.

• Only cross at official border crossings
• Follow the instructions of security forces
• Avoid travelling at night
• Avoid travelling alone

Crime

Petty crime

Pickpocketing, mugging, purse snatching and theft from cars and homes occur.

During your stay:

• keep your car and home doors locked and windows closed at all times
• don’t leave personal items and documents in plain sight in a vehicle
• make sure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents are secure at all times
• don’t show signs of affluence

Police officers don’t regularly patrol streets and response may take longer than expected.

Terrorism

There is a low threat of terrorism in Armenia, but attacks could occur at any time.

In 2022, there have been bomb alerts in Yerevan targeting:

• Zvartnots International Airport
• metro stations
• shopping malls
• the city hall
• the national assembly

Targets could also include:

• schools
• places of worship
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

In the event of a bomb alert:

• expect heightened presence of security forces and disruptions to air traffic and public transportation
• monitor local media to stay informed on the evolving situation
• follow instructions of local authorities and security forces, including evacuation orders
• don’t go near the targeted areas

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant if attending:

• sporting events
• religious holidays
• other public celebrations

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place regularly, particularly in Yerevan and the vicinity of institutional buildings, and are mostly peaceful.

In 2022, large-scale demonstrations took place in several cities across Armenia over the government’s posture toward Azerbaijan after the Nagorno-Karabakh war. They have led to acts of vandalism and violent clashes amongst demonstrators and with security forces in certain places.

Further demonstrations are likely.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Road safety

Road conditions

Road conditions have improved in recent years in Yerevan and on main roads. Roads in rural areas are poorly maintained and dangerous due to:

• insufficient lighting
• bad road markings and signage
• large potholes
• unpaved sections
• lack of road shoulders
• poor snow clearing during winter

Emergency services may take a long time to reach you if you’re involved in an accident outside of urban areas. You must have a warning triangle in your car at all times in case of an emergency.

Roads in Armenia – Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Republic of Armenia

Driving habits

Drivers are often distracted, frequently break traffic regulations, drive at excessive speeds and lack driving skills.

Pedestrians often cross in the middle of the road and drivers don’t always give pedestrians the right of way.

Driving under the influence of alcohol is common, especially on weekends.

U-turns and lane changes without warning occur frequently.

If you’re driving in Armenia:

• always drive defensively
• avoid driving at night
• use main roads and highways as much as possible
• don’t stop in isolated areas
• always carry a cellphone and a charger

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Advice for women travellers

Fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs.

Be careful when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN

Tourist scams

There have been reports of foreigners being pickpocketed or forced to pay the bill by friendly strangers who:

• offer to help, especially near ATMs
• ask you to take a photo
• invite you for drinks at a bar

While travelling:

• avoid showing signs of affluence, carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables
• pay attention to your surroundings, particularly in crowded and tourist areas
• be extra cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs

Overseas fraud

Adventure tourism

Adventure tourism, such as zip-lining, kayaking, rock climbing or trekking, can be dangerous, especially if they are not well-organized. Trails are not always marked and weather conditions can change rapidly.

Tour operators may not meet international standards.

If you are participating in adventure tourism:

• never do so alone, and do not part with your tour companions  consider hiring an experienced guide from a reputable company 
• buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation  
• ensure that your physical condition is good enough to tackle the challenges of your activity  
• avoid venturing off marked trails  
• refrain from using equipment if you have doubts on their safety  
• always wear a lifejacket during water activities.

Public transportation

Taxi

Taxis are widely available in Yerevan, but vehicles are often in poor condition and don't always have standard security features like seatbelts.

Most taxi drivers:

• smoke and talk on the phone while driving
• don’t accept credit cards
• can’t make change for large bills

There are several mobile applications on which you can order taxis with safer vehicles and fixed fares.

If you choose to take a taxi:

• confirm the driver's identity and license plate before getting into the car
• never share a cab with strangers
• make sure the driver does not pick up other passengers on the way to your destination
• negotiate the fare in advance
• have small bills available for payment.

Train

Trains operate in Armenia, but mainly serve destinations in the north of the country. Be careful when travelling by train as wagons are often overcrowded and not always well-maintained.

• Make sure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Don’t leave the compartment unattended
• Keep the door locked from the inside

Buses

When travelling outside of Yerevan, avoid using minibuses called "Marshrutka".

Drivers are reckless and are often involved in accidents. The vehicles are overcrowded and not always equipped with seatbelts.

Petty crimes such as theft occur, and drivers may overcharge you.

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Entry and exit requirements

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Armenian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Armenia.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Visas

Tourist visa: required
Transit visa: required
Business visa: required

You must obtain a visa before departure either from:

• Armenia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website or
• the closest Embassy of Armenia

Apply for an e-visa - Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Armenia

Dual citizenship

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Armenia, you might be required to enter and exit Armenia on an Armenian passport. Contact the nearest Armenian diplomatic office to confirm this information.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children.

Health

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccinations, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette, which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•  washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medication

Some prescription medication may not be available in Armenia.

If you are taking prescription medication, you must verify its legality.

• Bring a sufficient supply of your medication
• Always leave your medication in its original packaging
• Keep your medication in your hand luggage
• Keep a copy of your prescription with you

Medical services and facilities

Adequate medical services and facilities are available in Yerevan. Outside Yerevan, medical personnel, services and facilities are limited and may not offer the level of care you may be used to in Canada.

Medical professionals may require cash payments before providing care, even if you have travel insurance that covers hospital stays.

Serious medical cases may require evacuation to a country equipped with adequate facilities.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Armenia are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Armenia to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Armenia authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Drugs

There are severe penalties for the possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs, including cannabis.

You could face:

• heavy fines
• detention
• lengthy jail sentences

Drinking and driving

There is zero tolerance and severe penalties for drinking and driving in Armenia.

The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.0%.

If you’re convicted of drunk driving, you could face jail sentences.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Photography

It is illegal to takes photographs or videos near sensitive areas along the border of Armenia, including:

• military installations
• engineering facilities
• buildings
• surveillance towers
• transportation equipment

This prohibition also applies to drones.

Driving

You need an international driving permit or an Armenian driver’s license to drive in Armenia.

Car insurance is mandatory in Armenia.

International Driving Permit

Imports and exports

You must obtain permission from Armenian authorities prior to importing certain goods and products, including:

• pharmaceuticals
• medicines
• drugs
• weapons and components of weapons
• communication equipment

The import and export of cultural and historical items is also regulated. This includes:

• archaeological objects
• sculptures and paintings
• ancient books and documents
• musical instruments
• furniture and carpets

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Information for tourists, importers and exporters – Customs service of the Republic of Armenia

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Armenian law doesn’t criminalize sexual acts or relationships between persons of the same sex.

However, 2SLGBTQI+ persons could be discriminated against based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Armenia.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Armenia, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

Dual citizens

National obligations

Canadian-Armenian citizens may also be subject to national obligations, such as taxes and military service. Check your status with the Embassy of the Republic of Armenia in Canada. Authorities may detain dual nationals who try to avoid military service and face large fines or imprisonment.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Armenia.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Armenia by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Armenia to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

Useful links

• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Children and travel
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Money

The currency is the Armenian dram (AMD).

Some ATMs may not accept foreign bank cards. You can make withdrawals at bank counters using your passport as identification. Most banks do not accept traveler's cheques and treasury bills. 

You must declare all foreign currency in your possession exceeding 10,000 USD or its equivalent:

• upon arrival
• upon departure

Foreign currency declarations apply to:

• bank notes
• traveller's cheques
• treasury bills

If you’re travelling with bearer securities in your possession, you must declare it to customs officials regardless of its value.

Natural disasters and climate

Armenia’s climate is continental, and temperatures vary geographically. In Yerevan, summers are hot and winters are mild.

A vast portion of the territory is at an altitude of 1000m above sea level where temperatures are lower than in the capital and rainfall more frequent.

Earthquakes

Armenia is located in an active seismic zone. Although no major events have occurred in recent years, an earthquake could strike at any time.

Earthquakes - What to Do?

Flood

The rainy season generally extends from March to June and from October to November.

Seasonal flooding can affect overland travel and the provision of essential services, especially in the Ararat and Shirak valleys. Landslides could occur, roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

• Monitor local media for updates, including road conditions
• Stay away from flooded areas
• Monitor weather reports
• Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders