Coat of arms of the Republic of Armenia
Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Republic of Armenia
System newsletterVideos

Information: Is It Mandatory to Replace Existing Documents? What Should You Do If Your Old Passport Contains a Visa? Is an Identity Card Required to Obtain a New Passport?

03 November 2026 • 07:25

Dear Citizens,

As you know, a new biometric document system was introduced in Armenia on 1 November.

For several months, we have been conducting an extensive public awareness campaign on the introduction of the new system. We will continue the campaign in this format as well, answering the questions that matter most to you.

So, following the introduction of the new system, do you need to replace your existing passports and identity cards?

No. Your documents remain valid until their stated expiry dates. However, if you hold an old blue passport and wish to obtain a new red biometric passport, you may apply for one.

Please note that once you receive your new passport, your old one becomes invalid. It will be cancelled by perforation and returned to you.

And what should you do if you have a valid visa in your old passport?

The visa remains valid. When travelling, you simply need to carry both your new passport and your old one containing the visa, while also taking into account the entry requirements of the country you are travelling to.

Is an identity card required to obtain a new biometric passport?

Yes, it is mandatory for citizens aged 16 and over, but not for those under 16.

If your identity card is an older version, there is no problem. As long as it is valid, you do not need to replace it. Simply use your valid identity card to activate strong authentication, which will make the pre-registration process easier.

Our public awareness efforts will continue.

Please leave your questions in the comments, and we will answer them in our upcoming videos.