Armenia Passes Biometric ID Law to Boost Digitalization and Advance EU Visa Liberalization

Yerevan, May 12, 2026 — Armenia has taken a major step toward modernizing its identity infrastructure and deepening ties with the European Union. The National Assembly has approved a comprehensive package of amendments to the Law on Identity Documents, establishing the legal framework for a new biometric national ID card and passport system.

The legislation, passed on May 12, 2026, aligns Armenian travel and identity documents with European Union and international standards — a key requirement in the country’s ongoing Visa Liberalization Action Plan with the EU.

Armenia passes biometric ID law – new passports and mandatory ID cards coming in fall 2026.

New Biometric System Launching in 2026

According to Minister of Internal Affairs Arpine Sargsyan, issuance of the new biometric passports and ID cards will begin in the second half of 2026. The government expects the rollout to significantly accelerate Armenia’s digital transformation.

“I believe that by the fall of 2026, we will have a completely new situation in the Republic of Armenia, and the pace of digitalization will accelerate even more,” Sargsyan stated.

Key Features of the New Identity Documents

• Mandatory ID Cards: All citizens aged 16 and above will be required to hold a biometric ID card.

• Voluntary for Minors: Children aged 6 to 16 may obtain the document voluntarily, while those under 6 will continue to use birth certificates for identification.

• ICAO Compliance: All new passports will meet ICAO Standard 9303, enabling the use of contactless border control systems at airports and land crossings.

• Enhanced Security: The documents will incorporate advanced biometric data (facial recognition and fingerprints) to improve security and reduce fraud.

The government has already unveiled the design of the new passports earlier this year.

Link to EU Visa Liberalization

The biometric ID reform is closely tied to Armenia’s ambitions for visa-free travel to the Schengen Area. The country recently received its first progress report under the EU Visa Liberalization Action Plan. Officials believe that bringing identity documents in line with EU standards will strengthen Armenia’s case for visa liberalization.

Public-Private Partnership Behind the Project

The new system is being developed through a public-private partnership (PPP) with Haypass, a consortium formed in 2024 between Idemia Identity & Security (France) and ACI Technology S.à.r.l. Biometric ID cards for foreigners, stateless persons, and permanent residents will be designed by IN Groupe.

Broader Implications

The introduction of biometric IDs is expected to:

• Facilitate smoother domestic and international travel

• Support e-governance and digital public services

• Strengthen border security and identity verification

• Improve access to banking, healthcare, and other services that require secure identification

This reform forms part of Armenia’s wider modernization drive, aiming to position the country as a more digitally advanced nation in the South Caucasus region.

Authorities have assured citizens that the transition will be gradual, with sufficient time and support provided during the rollout phase.

For the latest updates, detailed guides, and analysis of Armenian residence permits, visas, and citizenship pathways, visit: visasupdate.com/blog