The Government of Armenia has approved rules for issuing new-generation biometric passports and ID cards. The new system will start operating on November 1, 2026. It provides for advance registration through a unified electronic platform, as well as the option of expedited processing for an additional fee. Before forwarding an application to the private operator, the Ministry of Internal Affairs will verify the citizen’s data against the State Population Register.

Once data is verified, applicants will be able to choose a convenient service center and visit time, pay for the service cashless, and receive a QR code via email. At the center, they will need to take a photo and submit fingerprints. It will also be possible to complete these procedures independently using dedicated terminals. The cost of a biometric passport will be 28,650 drams, and an ID card will cost 5,950 drams.

At the initial stage, 14 service centers will open across the country, two of which will be located in Yerevan. Their number is planned to increase in the future. The collection of biometric data, manufacturing, and issuance of documents will be entrusted to the private company HayPass. At the same time, the state will retain key powers: verifying the applicant’s identity and making the final decision on granting a passport or ID card.