On September 9, the European Commission and the Republic of Armenia announced the initiation of a visa liberalisation dialogue. This dialogue aims to assist Armenia in achieving visa-free travel for short stays within the EU, provided that Armenia meets the conditions for well-managed mobility and security.
The visa dialogue is part of the broader framework of EU-Armenia relations, which have made significant progress since the signing of the EU-Armenia Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in 2017. The dialogue will support Armenia’s ongoing efforts to implement comprehensive reforms, particularly in areas crucial for visa-free travel to the EU, such as document security, border and migration management, the fight against corruption and organised crime, and upholding fundamental rights.
This initiative builds on the successful implementation of the EU-Armenia Visa Facilitation and Readmission Agreements, which have simplified travel procedures for many Armenian citizens since January 1, 2014. Currently, all EU citizens are exempt from visa requirements when entering Armenia. The European Commission and the Government of Armenia will work closely to ensure the dialogue is conducted efficiently and effectively. The process is merit-based, and its duration will be determined by progress; there will be no automatic transition to visa-free travel. All benchmarks must be fully met before a final decision on visa liberalisation is made by the European Council and the European Parliament. The process will require close cooperation with EU Member States to monitor progress and developments rigorously.
Armenia, the only republic in the Caucasus making significant strides towards the EU, has the EU’s commitment to enhancing political and economic collaboration. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen hosted a meeting with US Secretary Antony Blinken and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan on April 5, 2024, in Brussels. High Representative Vice-President (HRVP) Josep Borrell was also present. The main topic of discussion was how the EU can support Armenia. In April 2024, the European Commission proposed a €270 million Resilience and Growth Plan for Armenia (2024-2027) to bolster the country’s socio-economic resilience. Additionally, on July 22, the Foreign Affairs Council approved a €10 million support measure under the European Peace Facility for the Armed Forces of the Republic of Armenia. The Council also welcomed the commission’s intention to launch a visa liberalisation dialogue with Armenia.
