Translated with AI from the Russian original.

As of January 1, 2026, several high-profile legislative changes have come into force in Armenia at once, affecting all segments of the population. The most notable was the reduction of the mandatory military service term: conscripts drafted after January 7 will serve 18 months instead of the previous 24.

No less significant is the introduction of a mandatory health insurance system. At the first stage, it will cover 1.6 million citizens: children under 18, seniors over 65, people with disabilities, families of fallen servicemen, as well as those who receive social benefits or a salary of 200 thousand drams or more.

From 2026, labor relations are moving radically into a digital format: all employment contracts will now be concluded exclusively through the state platform. The procedure for submitting citizenship applications is changing similarly — exclusively online, with preliminary document verification and an increase in the state fee.

Citizens' financial life will also become more attractive: the state is introducing a universal 2% cashback on cashless payments through the ArCa system. An electronic notification system will also appear, allowing state bodies to promptly inform individuals, legal entities, and sole proprietors through digital channels or by mail.

In addition, Armenia has nearly doubled its quota for duty-free imports of electric vehicles — the country will now be able to import up to 15 thousand cars within the EAEU framework. These measures promise to stimulate both digitalization and environmentally friendly transport solutions in the country.

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Armenia discussed AI development, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure

Armenia discussed AI development, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure

At the ArmIGF 2026 forum, participants outlined the conditions for the safe adoption of artificial intelligence.

Sofia and Yerevan resume direct flights

Sofia and Yerevan resume direct flights

Flights are operated by Bulgarian GullivAir in cooperation with Bulgaria Air

Cyprus to help Armenia integrate artificial intelligence in schools

Cyprus to help Armenia integrate artificial intelligence in schools

Nicosia is ready to share recommendations for educators on using AI in teaching with Yerevan.

Armenia will allocate at least $14 million for the development of AI and robotics

Armenia will allocate at least $14 million for the development of AI and robotics

The seven-year program envisages the creation of two laboratories and the training of 330 specialists.

Armenia's Ministry of Internal Affairs explained who will store citizens' biometric data during the issuance of new passports

Armenia's Ministry of Internal Affairs explained who will store citizens' biometric data during the issuance of new passports

The private company HayPass is only responsible for collecting biometric information and transferring it to the state. Data management and storage remain under the authority of state bodies.

Armenia, the US, and Azerbaijan launch working groups to implement the “Trump Route”

Armenia, the US, and Azerbaijan launch working groups to implement the “Trump Route”

Trilateral teams will focus on developing transport infrastructure and electricity transmission within the TRIPP project, as well as its integration with other regional networks.

Vanadzor purchased 45 buses in China for $4.5 million: old “GAZelles” to retire

Vanadzor purchased 45 buses in China for $4.5 million: old “GAZelles” to retire

New public transport will be sent to Armenia in three days

Passports with “golden” numbers for an additional fee may be introduced in Armenia

Passports with “golden” numbers for an additional fee may be introduced in Armenia

The Ministry of Internal Affairs is also considering benefits for biometric documents for pensioners and people with disabilities

An automated passport control system will be installed at Yerevan airport by the end of the year

An automated passport control system will be installed at Yerevan airport by the end of the year

The equipment will be placed in the arrival and departure areas of “Zvartnots” to speed up border crossing

Armenian engineering program ArMath has opened its 18th laboratory abroad — this time in Iraq

Armenian engineering program ArMath has opened its 18th laboratory abroad — this time in Iraq

A new educational center has begun operations in Iraqi Kurdistan following the training of local teachers in programming and robotics

Armenia to invest at least $14 million in the development of physical AI over seven years

Armenia to invest at least $14 million in the development of physical AI over seven years

The state and private sector will fund robotics and artificial intelligence research on a parity basis