The government resolved to lift visa requirements for the citizens of EU states and Schengen Area (Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway, Switzerland) travelling to Armenia.

According to the Deputy Foreign Minister Shavarsh Kocharyan, the decision aims at deepening ties with EU states as well as development of tourism in Armenia. “We hope the EU will consider the step above in facilitating the visa regime for Armenian citizens,” he added.

The resolution will enter into force on January 1, 2013. According to Armenia’s law on foreigners, the citizens eligible for visa-free travel to Armenia are allowed to stay in the country for up to 180 days a year.