Claiming Armenian Citizenship by Descent

If you have Armenian roots, you may be asking yourself: Can I claim Armenian citizenship by descent? The good news is that the answer is yes, and the process might be simpler than you think. Armenia welcomes people of Armenian ancestry to reconnect with their heritage through citizenship.

This article explains how to apply, what paperwork you'll need, and how Armenian nationality legislation backs up your claim.

What Is Armenian Citizenship by Descent?

Armenian citizenship by descent means you can obtain citizenship in the Republic of Armenia based on your Armenian ancestry. Even if your parents, or their parents, never lived in Armenia. The legislation permits anybody who can demonstrate Armenian ancestry to petition for Armenian nationality. This is one of the most generous pathways to citizenship that Armenia offers.

Anyone who can show they have at least one parent or grandparent from Armenia may qualify for Armenian nationality. The rules also allow individuals with Armenian great-grandparents to apply, provided there is clear documentary evidence.

Why Would You Want Armenian Citizenship?

Several reasons make people choose to obtain Armenian citizenship by descent:

  • Reconnect with heritage: It’s a meaningful way to honor your Armenian ancestry.
  • Visa-free travel: Armenian passport holders can travel visa-free or visa-on-arrival to over 60 countries.
  • Live and work in Armenia: Citizenship makes it easier to live, study, and work in Armenia permanently.
  • Dual citizenship allowed: Armenia permits dual citizenship, so you don’t have to renounce your original nationality.
  • Family inclusion: You may be able to extend citizenship to children and spouses later.

So now, the only question is how to get Armenian citizenship by descent?

What Does the Armenian Nationality Law Say?

Both jus sanguinis (right of blood) and jus soli (right of soil) are foundations of Armenian citizenship law. However, the descent has greater weight. The most relevant clause for those seeking citizenship by descent states that a person of Armenian descent may apply for Armenian nationality even if they were born outside Armenia and have never lived there.

Each citizenship request is finally signed by the President of the Republic. However, the application procedure starts with the Armenian Passport and Visa Department or an Armenian embassy or consulate.

Who Qualifies?

Here are the primary qualifications for Armenian citizenship by descent:

  • You have at least one parent, grandparent, or great-grandparent who is of Armenian origin.
  • You are at least 18 years of age (or your legal guardian applies for you).
  • You have valid identification and proof of lineage.
  • You do not have a criminal record in Armenia or internationally.

You do not need to:

  • Have lived in Armenia.
  • Speak the Armenian language (though it helps).
  • Renounce your current citizenship.

What Documents Do You Need?

The documentation is the most critical part of the process. You must clearly prove your Armenian descent. Common documents include:

  • Your birth certificate.
  • Birth certificates of your Armenian parent/grandparent.
  • Your passport or national ID.
  • Marriage certificates (to show name changes, if applicable).
  • Death certificates of deceased Armenian ancestors, if applicable.
  • A letter or form confirming your desire to become a citizen.
  • A completed application for Armenian citizenship.

All foreign documents must be translated into Armenian and notarized. Many also require apostille certification or legalization.

Where Do You Apply?

You can apply through:

  • The Armenian embassy or consulate in your country.
  • The Passport and Visa Department in Yerevan if you're applying inside Armenia.

Some applicants prefer to travel to Armenia to submit the application personally, while others find it more convenient to handle the process through their local Armenian embassy.

What Is the Process Like?

  1. Collect your documents. Make sure everything is translated into Armenian and notarized.
  2. Submit your application. Either in person or through a consulate.
  3. Undergo an interview. You may be asked questions about your Armenian ancestry or your reason for applying.
  4. Wait for a decision. This can take several months.
  5. Receive your citizenship approval. The President of the Republic signs off on successful applications.
  6. Apply for your Armenian passport.

What If You Don’t Speak Armenian?

Speaking Armenian is not a legal requirement for citizenship by descent. However, showing familiarity with Armenian culture, history, or basic language skills can sometimes strengthen your case. Some consular staff may appreciate applicants who demonstrate a sincere interest in Armenia, especially if you plan to move there.

Can You Get Citizenship for Your Children?

Yes, once you acquire citizenship, your minor children may also qualify for Armenian citizenship. You can apply on their behalf with the same documentation pathway. If your children are adults, they will need to apply independently but can use the same descent evidence.

What About Citizenship by Investment?

Some people confuse the citizenship by descent process with citizenship by investment. These are two different pathways. Citizenship by descent is based on heritage, and no investment is required. Citizenship by investment programs typically require a significant financial contribution and may include residency first.

So, if you are Armenian by blood, you don’t need to buy property or invest in a business to become a citizen. Your ancestry is enough.

Can You Hold Dual Citizenship?

Yes! Armenia allows dual citizenship. You do not have to give up your current nationality to become an Armenian citizen. This flexibility is especially appealing for those who want to enjoy the benefits of both passports.

If your home country also allows dual citizenship, then you can enjoy the best of both worlds—visa-free travel, broader residence options, and connection to your cultural roots.

Does It Help to Have Lived in Armenia?

While residence in Armenia is not required for citizenship by descent, having lived in Armenia or showing plans to do so can help reinforce your connection to the country. It shows commitment and seriousness about contributing to Armenian society.

However, many successful applicants live abroad and have never resided in Armenia. What matters most is your documented Armenian descent.

How Long Does It Take?

On average, the process can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months. Factors that influence the timeline include:

  • How complete is your documentation?
  • Where you apply (in-country vs. consulate)
  • How quickly are your documents verified
  • Processing time by the Ministry of Justice and the President’s office

Tips for a Smooth Application

  • Start early: Gathering and translating documents can take longer than you expect.
  • Be thorough: Double-check that names and dates match across all documents.
  • Use official channels: Only apply through authorized Armenian government offices or consulates.
  • Follow up: Don’t be afraid to contact the consulate or office for updates.
  • Be patient: Government processes take time, especially when cross-border verification is involved.

Armenia: Citizenship by Descent Final Thoughts

If you have Armenian roots, claiming Armenian citizenship by descent is more than a legal process—it’s a journey into your identity. Whether you want to live in the Republic of Armenia, travel more freely with an Armenian passport, or simply honor your family history, this citizenship is a powerful link to your heritage.

So why wait? If you can trace your ancestry and gather the necessary documents, take the first step. Apply for Armenian citizenship and open the door to a world that’s both old and new—your Armenia.

If you have more questions or need assistance with your application, reach out to the nearest Armenian embassy or consulate. They’re there to help guide you through the process.

Claim your birthright. Armenia is waiting.

Получить руководство

Поможем принять взвешенное решение на основании нашего юридического анализа

Оставьте контактные данные для получения гайда

Пожалуйста, используйте только английские буквы и цифры

*гайдбук будет отправлен на указанную почту

Спасибо! Ваша заявка отправлена
Наш менеджер свяжется с вами по указанным контактным данным
(Пн - Пт с 9:00 до 18:00 по Москве)
При отправке заявки произошла ошибка. Пожалуйста, попробуйте еще раз позже.

Помощь с оформлением карты MasterCard

  • Пакет из двух карт сроком на 5 лет
  • 4 валюты: USD, EUR, RUBL, AMD
  • Комиссия на снятие наличных 1-3%
  • Перевод на карту иностранного банка

Стоимость: 300$

Оформить карту

Скачайте гайдбук с подробными шагами по получению ВНЖ, всё просто

Получить гайд

Готовы ли вы получить ВНЖ в Армении?

Какова ваша цель получения ВНЖ в Армении?
1 / 6

Свой вариант:

У вас есть основания для получения ВНЖ в Армении?
2 / 6
Какой тип ВНЖ вас интересует?
3 / 6
У вас есть действующий паспорт и другие необходимые документы?
4 / 6
Нужна ли вам помощь в решении финансовых и юридических вопросов, связанных с ВНЖ?
5 / 6
Хотите получить персональную консультацию по вашему случаю?
6 / 6
Заполните поля
Почти готово

Оставьте свои контактные данные для получения персональной консультации и/или бесплатного гайда по оформлению ВНЖ в Армении

Назад
Продолжить
Отправляя форму, вы соглашаетесь на обработку персональных данных
Спасибо! Ваша заявка отправлена
Наш менеджер свяжется с вами по указанным контактным данным
(Пн - Пт с 9:00 до 18:00 по Москве)
Спасибо! Ваша заявка отправлена!
При отправке заявки произошла ошибка. Пожалуйста, попробуйте еще раз позже.

Нужна помощь? Обращайтесь!

Оставьте заявку — менеджер свяжется с вами в течение часа и обговорит детали
Пожалуйста, используйте только английские буквы и цифры
Интересуют услуги
Спасибо! Ваша заявка отправлена
Наш менеджер свяжется с вами по указанным контактным данным
(Пн - Пт с 9:00 до 18:00 по Москве)
При отправке заявки произошла ошибка. Пожалуйста, попробуйте еще раз позже.

Need help? Contact us!

Leave an application - a manager will contact you within an hour to discuss the details
Interested in services:
By submitting the form, you agree to the processing of personal data
Спасибо! Ваша заявка отправлена!
An error occurred while submitting the application. Please try again later

Последние публикации

Вернуться в блог

Последние публикации

Вернуться в блог

Latest publications

Back to articles