YEREVAN, March 12 – If the current pace of reforms is maintained, visa-free travel for Armenian citizens to the European Union is a realistic prospect in the coming years. This statement was made by Magnus Brunner, the EU Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, in an interview with Armenpress.
New Opportunities for Armenian Citizens
Commissioner Brunner emphasized that this development would create new opportunities for Armenian citizens in various sectors, including education, business, tourism, and cultural exchanges. He added that it would further strengthen the ties between Armenia and the European Union.
According to Brunner, visa liberalization is a crucial component of the Armenia-EU partnership, as it brings the two peoples closer together. He highlighted that it would facilitate travel for work, study, and tourism, thereby contributing to deeper cooperation and expanded people-to-people connections.
A Standards-Based Process
Brunner underscored that visa liberalization is a standards-based process. Therefore, all requirements outlined in the action plan must be fulfilled before a final decision is made. He stressed that this is not only in the interest of the EU but, first and foremost, in the interests of the people of Armenia.
Armenia’s Unique Position in Visa Liberalization
Currently, the Republic of Armenia is the only state with which the EU is implementing a visa liberalization process. Earlier, Armenian Minister of Internal Affairs, Arpine Sargsyan, stated that the actions for implementing the EU visa liberalization program are within the scope of reforms planned by Armenia.
Biometric System Implementation
A key reform is the introduction of a biometric system, specifically the issuance of new biometric passports and identification cards. According to the timeline, their issuance will commence in the second half of 2026. The French consortium “IDEMIA Identity Security France and ACI Technology S.à.rl,” which won the tender, is currently establishing the necessary infrastructure.
In April 2025, an agreement was signed in Armenia with the “HAYPASS” company, created by this consortium, which will directly manage the implementation of the biometric passport and identification card system in Armenia.
