Armenia Crew Visa

Crew Visa Overview

The Armenia Crew Visa is a specialized visa category designed for aviation, maritime, and transport personnel who need to enter Armenia as part of their professional duties. This visa ensures that transportation crew members can legally enter and stay in Armenia while performing their essential roles in international transportation operations.

Key Benefits

  • Streamlined application process designed specifically for transportation professionals
  • Expedited processing options for urgent crew changes or operational needs
  • Multiple-entry options for crew members with regular routes to Armenia
  • Simplified documentation requirements compared to other visa categories
  • Special provisions for emergency crew changes and unscheduled operations

Who Should Apply

The Crew Visa is specifically designed for transportation professionals who are actively engaged in the operation of international transportation vehicles and vessels:

Aviation Personnel

Pilots, flight engineers, cabin crew, and other essential aviation staff operating international flights to and from Armenia.

Maritime Crew

Ship captains, officers, engineers, and other maritime personnel operating vessels that dock at Armenian ports on Lake Sevan or other waterways.

International Road Transport

Professional drivers and accompanying personnel operating international cargo or passenger transport vehicles entering Armenia.

Railway Personnel

Train drivers, conductors, and other essential railway staff operating international train services to and from Armenia.

Technical Support Crew

Maintenance technicians, engineers, and support staff traveling to Armenia to service international transportation vehicles or vessels.

Medical Transport Personnel

Medical staff and crew operating international air ambulances or other medical transport vehicles entering Armenia.

Important Note

The Crew Visa is specifically for active transportation crew members. If you are traveling to Armenia for other purposes (such as business meetings, tourism, or to provide technical services not directly related to transportation operations), you should apply for the appropriate visa category for your specific purpose of visit.

Armenia's Transportation Hubs

Armenia has several key transportation hubs where crew members may operate:

Zvartnots International Airport (EVN)

Armenia's main international airport located near Yerevan, serving numerous international airlines and cargo operations.

Key features: Modern terminal facilities, crew rest areas, international connections to major European, Middle Eastern, and CIS destinations.

Shirak Airport (LWN)

Armenia's second international airport located in Gyumri, serving as an alternative entry point and handling seasonal flights.

Key features: Smaller regional airport with basic crew facilities, primarily serving flights to/from Russia and seasonal charter operations.

Lake Sevan Ports

While primarily recreational, Lake Sevan has ports that occasionally handle specialized maritime operations requiring crew entry.

Key features: Limited maritime facilities focused on tourism and research vessels rather than commercial shipping.

International Road Crossings

Armenia has several land border crossings with Georgia and Iran used by international road transport operators.

Key features: Bagratashen, Bavra, and Gogavan (Georgia borders); Meghri (Iran border) with customs and immigration facilities for transport crews.

Railway Connections

Armenia's railway network connects with Georgia's system, allowing international rail transport operations.

Key features: The main international railway connection is through the Ayrum-Sadakhlo crossing with Georgia, handling both passenger and freight operations.

Cargo Terminals

Specialized cargo handling facilities where international transport crews may operate.

Key features: Air cargo facilities at Zvartnots Airport, international road transport logistics centers near major highways and border crossings.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for an Armenia Crew Visa, you must meet the following requirements:

Active Crew Status

You must be an active crew member of an international transportation vehicle or vessel scheduled to operate to/from or through Armenia.

Valid Passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned exit date from Armenia.

Employer Verification

Documentation from your transportation company confirming your employment and assignment to operations involving Armenia.

Operation Schedule

Confirmation of the transportation schedule showing operations to, from, or through Armenia.

Professional Credentials

Valid professional licenses or certificates relevant to your crew position (pilot license, seafarer's book, professional driver's qualification, etc.).

Health Insurance

International health insurance that covers your stay in Armenia (often provided by your employer).

Processing Times and Fees

We understand that transportation operations often require flexibility and quick responses. We offer three processing options to accommodate different operational needs:

Standard Processing

1-6 Working Days
0

Suitable for crew members with regular scheduled operations planned well in advance.

Urgent Processing

1- 3 Working Days
$59

For crew assignments with shorter notice or schedule changes.

Emergency Processing

24 Hours
$99

For urgent crew changes, emergency operations, or last-minute schedule changes.

Additional fees may apply for multiple-entry visas. For a complete fee breakdown, please visit our Visa Fees page.

Corporate Accounts for Transportation Companies

We offer corporate account services for airlines, shipping companies, and other transportation operators that regularly send crew members to Armenia. Benefits include priority processing, volume discounts, and simplified documentation requirements for repeat travelers. Contact us for details about setting up a corporate account.

Required Documents

To apply for an Armenia Crew Visa, you'll need to prepare the following documents:

Passport Scan

Clear color scan of your passport's biographical page showing your photo, personal details, and passport number.

Digital Photo

Recent color photo with white background (3.5 × 4.5 cm), taken within the last 6 months.

Crew ID or License

Copy of your professional crew identification, license, or qualification document (pilot license, seafarer's book, etc.).

Company Letter

Official letter from your transportation company confirming your employment and assignment to operations involving Armenia.

Operation Schedule

Document showing the transportation schedule with dates of operations to, from, or through Armenia (flight schedule, vessel schedule, transport route plan, etc.).

General Declaration

For aviation crew: Copy of the General Declaration (GenDec) listing you as a crew member (if available at time of application).

Crew List

For maritime crew: Copy of the official crew list for the vessel scheduled to dock in Armenia (if available at time of application).

Health Insurance

Proof of international health insurance valid in Armenia (often provided through your employer).

All documents must be in English or Armenian, or accompanied by certified translations. Documents in other languages may cause delays or rejection.

Application Process

Applying for an Armenia Crew Visa involves several steps:

Confirm Your Assignment

Verify your crew assignment and operational schedule involving Armenia with your transportation company.

Gather Required Documents

Collect all necessary documents as outlined in the Required Documents section, including your professional credentials and operation schedule.

Complete the Online Application

Fill out our user-friendly online application form, selecting "Crew" as the purpose of visit.

Upload Documents

Upload clear scans of all required documents through our secure portal.

Pay the Visa Fee

Pay the applicable visa fee using our secure payment system (credit/debit card or PayPal). For corporate accounts, billing may be handled according to your company's arrangement.

Application Review

Our team will review your application and submit it to the Armenian authorities. You'll receive email updates about your application status.

Receive Your Visa

Once approved, your visa will be sent to your email. Print a copy to present upon arrival in Armenia.

Group Applications for Crew Teams

For transportation companies sending multiple crew members to Armenia, we offer streamlined group application services. This allows for efficient processing of multiple crew visas with shared operational documentation. Contact us for details about group applications for your crew team.

Visa Duration and Special Provisions

The Armenia Crew Visa has specific duration parameters and special provisions designed for transportation operations:

Standard Duration

Typically issued for the duration of your scheduled operations plus a buffer period (usually 7-14 days) to accommodate potential operational delays.

Multiple Entry Options

For crew members with regular routes to Armenia, multiple-entry visas can be issued for periods of 3 months, 6 months, or 1 year, allowing repeated entries during operational rotations.

Emergency Provisions

Special expedited processing for emergency crew changes or unscheduled operations (such as emergency landings, medical diversions, or urgent cargo deliveries).

Rest Period Allowances

Crew visas typically include allowances for mandatory rest periods required by international transportation regulations.

Crew Change Flexibility

Special provisions for crew changes, allowing replacement crew members to enter Armenia while outgoing crew members depart.

Activity Limitations

Crew visas permit activities directly related to transportation operations but do not allow other business activities, employment, or extended tourism.

If your operational schedule changes significantly after your visa is issued, contact us immediately for assistance with adjustments to maintain your legal status in Armenia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Transportation operations often face schedule changes, and the Armenia Crew Visa system has provisions to accommodate these situations:

Minor Schedule Changes
  • Within Visa Validity Period: If the new schedule still falls within your visa's validity period (including the buffer days), no action is needed.
  • Documentation: We recommend carrying documentation of the schedule change (updated flight plan, company notification, etc.) to present to immigration officials if questioned.
Major Schedule Changes
  • Extended Delays: If operations are delayed beyond your visa's validity period, you may need a visa extension or a new visa.
  • Expedited Processing: We offer expedited processing for such cases to ensure crew compliance with immigration requirements.
  • Company Notification: Your transportation company should provide an official letter explaining the schedule change.
Canceled Operations
  • No Entry Required: If your operation to Armenia is canceled entirely and you no longer need to enter the country, no action is required regarding your visa.
  • Future Operations: The visa remains valid for its original duration and can be used if new operations are scheduled within that period.
Emergency Operations
  • Unscheduled Landings/Dockings: For emergency situations (such as emergency landings, medical diversions, or urgent unscheduled operations), Armenian authorities have special procedures at ports of entry.
  • On-Arrival Processing: In genuine emergency situations, crew members may be processed upon arrival with proper company documentation and crew identification.
  • Post-Arrival Regularization: Our service can assist with regularizing immigration status after emergency arrivals.

We recommend contacting us as soon as you become aware of significant schedule changes that might affect your visa status. Our 24/7 crew support line is available to assist with urgent visa matters related to operational changes.

Yes, crew members with a valid Armenia Crew Visa are permitted to leave the airport or port during layovers and rest periods, but there are important considerations:

Permitted Activities During Layovers
  • Rest and Recuperation: You may stay at crew accommodations or hotels for mandatory rest periods.
  • Basic Tourism: You may engage in limited tourist activities such as visiting restaurants, shops, or local attractions.
  • Essential Purchases: You may purchase personal necessities, souvenirs, or gifts.
  • Meals and Recreation: You may dine out and participate in recreational activities.
Restrictions and Limitations
  • Business Activities: The Crew Visa does not permit engaging in business meetings, negotiations, or commercial activities unrelated to your transportation operations.
  • Employment: You cannot take up any form of employment or paid work.
  • Extended Tourism: While basic tourism is allowed, extended tourist activities beyond your operational requirements may be questioned.
  • Geographical Limitations: In some cases, especially for maritime crew, there may be restrictions on how far you can travel from your port of entry.
Documentation to Carry

When leaving the airport or port, crew members should carry:

  • Your passport with the Crew Visa
  • Your crew ID or professional license
  • A copy of your transportation schedule or crew assignment
  • Contact information for your local handling agent or company representative
  • The address and contact details of your accommodation
Practical Advice
  • Time Management: Always ensure you return to your transportation vehicle or vessel with ample time before scheduled departure.
  • Local Regulations: Be aware that some areas may have specific security zones or restricted areas, particularly around ports or certain government facilities.
  • Company Policies: Always adhere to your company's policies regarding crew activities during layovers, which may be more restrictive than immigration rules.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs, traditions, and laws while in Armenia.

For longer layovers or if you plan to engage in activities beyond basic rest and recreation, we recommend consulting with your company's local representative or our customer service team for specific guidance.

The Armenia Crew Visa and Transit Visa serve different purposes and have distinct features designed for specific travel situations:

Feature Crew Visa Transit Visa
Primary Purpose For active transportation crew members operating vehicles or vessels to/from/through Armenia For travelers passing through Armenia en route to a third country
Eligible Applicants Professional crew members (pilots, flight attendants, ship crew, train staff, professional drivers) Any traveler transiting through Armenia to another destination
Duration Based on operational schedule plus buffer time; can be multiple-entry for regular operations Typically limited to 3-5 days for a single transit journey
Documentation Requires professional credentials and company verification of crew status Requires proof of onward travel to a third country
Activities Permitted Professional crew duties, rest periods, limited tourism during layovers Passing through Armenia; limited activities during transit period
Processing Priority Often expedited to accommodate transportation schedules Standard processing without special priority
Special Provisions Emergency processing for unscheduled operations; crew change provisions No special operational provisions
When to Choose a Crew Visa
  • You are an active crew member of an aircraft, vessel, train, or commercial vehicle
  • You are entering Armenia as part of your professional duties operating that transportation
  • Your company has assigned you to operations involving Armenia
  • You have professional crew credentials and company documentation
When to Choose a Transit Visa
  • You are a passenger (not crew) traveling through Armenia to reach another destination
  • You need to change transportation in Armenia (e.g., connecting flights)
  • You are making a brief stop in Armenia during a longer journey
  • You have confirmed onward travel to a third country

Important Note: If you are a crew member traveling to Armenia but not as part of active crew duties (e.g., traveling as a passenger to join your vessel or aircraft, or for training), you should apply for the appropriate visa for your specific purpose (transit, business, etc.) rather than a Crew Visa.

Emergency crew changes can be necessary due to illness, family emergencies, operational requirements, or other unforeseen circumstances. Armenia has specific procedures to accommodate these situations:

For Outgoing Crew (Leaving Armenia)
  • No Special Exit Procedures: Crew members with valid visas can generally exit Armenia without special procedures, even if earlier than originally scheduled.
  • Documentation: The crew member should carry a letter from the transportation company explaining the emergency crew change.
  • Company Notification: The transportation company should notify Armenian authorities about the crew change through their local handling agent or representative.
For Incoming Replacement Crew

With Advance Notice (24+ hours):

  1. Emergency Processing: We offer 24-hour emergency processing for replacement crew members.
  2. Required Documents:
    • Passport scan
    • Crew ID or professional license
    • Digital photo
    • Emergency crew change letter from the transportation company
    • Updated crew list or General Declaration (if applicable)
  3. Application Process: The application should be marked as "Emergency Crew Change" for priority processing.
  4. Visa Delivery: The visa will be delivered electronically to the crew member's email for printing.

With Minimal Notice (Less than 24 hours):

  1. Immediate Assistance: Contact our 24/7 emergency crew support line for immediate assistance.
  2. Airport/Port Coordination: We can coordinate with Armenian immigration authorities at the port of entry.
  3. On-Arrival Processing: In genuine emergencies, arrangements can sometimes be made for on-arrival processing with proper documentation.
  4. Required Documents: The replacement crew member must carry:
    • Passport
    • Crew ID or professional license
    • Emergency crew change letter from the transportation company
    • Contact information for the local handling agent or company representative
Special Considerations for Different Transportation Types
  • Aviation: Coordination with airport authorities and air traffic services may be required for emergency crew changes affecting flight operations.
  • Maritime: Port authorities must be notified of crew changes, and replacement crew may need to coordinate with port security for access.
  • Road Transport: Replacement drivers must ensure they have proper documentation for both immigration and vehicle operation in Armenia.
  • Railway: Railway authorities must be notified of crew changes affecting international train operations.
Emergency Contact Information

For emergency crew change assistance, contact our 24/7 crew support line:

  • Emergency Phone:
  • Emergency Email:

Important: Emergency procedures are intended for genuine operational emergencies. Routine crew changes should follow the standard application process with appropriate advance planning.

Road transport crews entering Armenia via land borders have specific considerations and procedures that differ from aviation or maritime crew:

Border Crossing Points

Armenia has several land border crossings with specific procedures for commercial transport:

  • Georgia-Armenia Borders:
    • Bagratashen-Sadakhlo (main commercial crossing, 24/7 operation)
    • Bavra-Ninotsminda (limited hours for commercial vehicles)
    • Gogavan-Guguti (limited commercial traffic)
  • Iran-Armenia Border:
    • Meghri-Nordooz (main southern commercial crossing)
Documentation Requirements

In addition to standard Crew Visa documentation, road transport crews should have:

  • Vehicle Documentation:
    • International registration documents
    • CMR waybill or cargo manifest
    • TIR Carnet (if applicable)
    • Vehicle insurance valid for Armenia
  • Driver Documentation:
    • International driving permit
    • Professional driver qualification card
    • Driver's hours log or tachograph records
  • Cargo Documentation:
    • Detailed cargo manifest
    • Commercial invoices for goods
    • Special permits for regulated cargo (if applicable)
Border Processing Procedures
  • Sequential Processing: At land borders, drivers typically go through passport control first, followed by customs and vehicle inspection.
  • Vehicle Inspection: Commercial vehicles may undergo physical inspection, particularly for cargo verification.
  • Processing Time: Allow 1-3 hours for border processing depending on border congestion and cargo complexity.
  • Multiple Crew Members: All crew members must be present for immigration processing with their individual Crew Visas.
Special Permits and Restrictions
  • Weight and Dimension Limits: Oversized or overweight vehicles require special permits obtainable in advance.
  • Dangerous Goods: Transport of hazardous materials requires special authorization and documentation.
  • Cabotage Restrictions: Foreign transport crews are generally not permitted to conduct domestic transport operations within Armenia.
  • Driving Hours: Armenia enforces driving and rest time regulations for commercial drivers.
Practical Advice for Road Transport Crews
  • Border Hours: Verify operating hours for your specific border crossing, as some have limited hours for commercial traffic.
  • Communication: Ensure you have working mobile communication that functions in Armenia.
  • Local Currency: Carry some Armenian Dram for immediate expenses after crossing.
  • Route Planning: Be aware of road conditions and restrictions for commercial vehicles on Armenian roads.
  • Language Considerations: Basic Russian is often more widely understood than English at land borders.

Road Transport Support: We offer specialized support for international road transport companies, including border crossing assistance, route planning, and emergency support within Armenia. Contact our road transport desk for details.

Ready to Apply for Your Armenia Crew Visa?

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