Number of Foreign Nationals Granted Residency in Armenia Rises 59%

YEREVAN — The number of foreign nationals granted residency status in Armenia increased by 59 percent in the first half of 2026 compared with the same period last year, according to the Migration and Citizenship Service.

A total of 10,561 residency permits were issued to foreign nationals during the first six months of 2026, up from 6,656 during the same period in 2025.

Of the total, 8,181 individuals received temporary residency status, with citizens of Russia, India and Iran accounting for the largest groups. Among them, 6,085 were granted temporary residency on the basis of employment.

Citizens of Vietnam, Iran, China and India submitted the largest number of applications for employment-based residency permits.

Another 2,085 individuals received permanent residency status. Russian citizens represented the largest group, with 1,233 permits issued, followed by citizens of Georgia and Iran.

A total of 295 individuals were granted special residency status, with citizens of Syria, Russia and Iran making up the largest groups in this category.

Overall, Russian nationals accounted for a significant share of foreigners receiving residency status in Armenia, particularly among those granted permanent residency.

The 59 percent increase in residency permits during the first half of 2026 was driven largely by the growing number of temporary residency permits issued on the basis of employment.