Couple of years ago, as part of strengthening the links between the Diaspora and the Motherland, the Armenian authorities started giving the special residency status (SRS) to any Diasporan.

The SRS is basically a special document that's provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) in Armenia or the Embassies around the world.

The SRS is given for 10 years and would allow its holder free entry to Armenia anytime during those 10 years.

Importantly, the SRS is needed when registering a property (land or apartment) in Armenia.

The requirements of the SRS:

- Application which can be collected at the Embassy or MFA
- A document proving the Armenian origin (baptism document)
- Local passport copy
- 8 pictures
- a simple interview with the Consul.

In the past it used to take 4-5 months; nowadays it takes around 2 months to be issued.

Personally, I have never heard that any application was denied or some people were given hard time. On the contrary, the Embassies are encouraging Diasporans to apply for the SRS.

The SRS holder doesn't vote in Armenia and neither pays any local taxes. Officially, he/she cannot use it to travel to any other country.

Even though Armenia is giving out citizenship to Diasporans, the SRS remains valid.

If there are any specific questions please feel free to contact me.

Detailed Information (application copy) can be found on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Website at this link:

http://www.armeniaforeignministry.com/consular/srs.html