Armenia has been recently on the radar for digital nomads seeking a unique blend of work and adventure in a small yet enchanting country. Is Armenia a great spot for freelance workers? What are the most attractive places for digital nomads in Armenia? We will try to answer all these questions below.
First of all, Armenia is attractive due to its blend of modern culture with access to amenities, WiFi, high-quality restaurants, and ancient-old monuments and traditions. With its diverse cultural heritage, hospitable locals, and rapidly growing tech industry, Armenia has emerged as a hidden gem for remote workers and freelancers.
The local IT sector has recorded unprecedented growth over the last five years. In addition to the local startups, there are also offices of such IT giants as Microsoft, Intel, Cisco, IBM, and others. There are more than 30,000 workers employed in the IT sector and more people choose Armenia as a country to work and to live in. This guide will provide insights and practical advice for anyone considering Armenia as their next working destination.
Visas
Travelers visiting from a number of countries like the United States, most EU states, Russia, and Iran do not need visas to enter Armenia. The remote workers from these countries can stay in Armenia for 180 days. Subsequently, they can register as sole proprietors and get a one-year temporary residence permit. The good news is this permission is renewable and enables nomads to open a bank account and get access to the healthcare and education system.
The website of Armenia’s foreign ministry offers a tool where tourists can check if they need a visa to visit Armenia.
How to Get to Armenia?
Armenia is a landlocked country and two of its borders with Turkey and Azerbaijan are closed. So, when planning to visit you have to consider the best air ticket options. The only alternative route is traveling from Georgia by train or by car. There are a couple of dozens of air companies, including budget airlines such as WizzAir operating flights to Armenia.
Transportation
A big plus of Armenia is it’s a small country and travels from one border to another. Most of the trips within the country range from 1 to 6 hours maximum. Inside Yerevan, you can travel by bus, metro, or taxi. Keep in mind that Yerevan metro has only 10 stations so you cannot reach some districts like Zeytun or Nork. The taxi has been popular as a budget-friendly choice for tourists, especially when compared to other countries. Although it has become more expensive it still costs around $5-6 max.
Internet
Overall, Armenia has a great internet connectivity. Luckily for remote workers, all cafes and restaurants have free WiFi. Strolling around Cascade or Northern Avenue, one can see a lot of people working on their laptops on sunny days. In general, Armenia boasts a developing internet infrastructure with widespread access in urban areas. Today the country is working on expanding its mobile network. So, people willing to live and work in Armenia do not have to worry about the Internet.
Accommodation
Accommodation that used to be budget friendly as compared with European countries now has become quite expensive. This is due to the flow of many remote workers and Russian citizens settling in Armenia after February 2022. This is the reason why more freelancers are choosing cities like Vanadzor or Gyumri in the north or Dilijan in the east of Armenia. However, there is one thing that never changes. It’s delicious Armenian cuisine at numerous cafes and restaurants.
Working Spaces for Digital Nomads in Armenia
If you prefer an office environment to work-friendly cafes, Yerevan is at the forefront of the coworking culture with numerous options available. The working spaces downtown and the suburbs provide a flexible and creative environment for startups and freelancers. One of them is Impact Hub Yerevan which offers networking opportunities. It is equipped with a kitchen, meeting rooms, and event spaces. Another example is 256 Hub, a state-of-the-art office space with silent zones, open workspace, and conference rooms. Furthermore, Armenia’s tech scene contributed to the development of the provinces. Today a freelancer can find coworking spaces in Ijevan, Dilijan, Vanadzor, and Gyumri.
Entertainment
Yerevan offers a diversity of entertainment options for tourists. There are museums and galleries for art enthusiasts and an opera and ballet theater. It’s helpful to follow ticket-selling websites to get updates on the concerts and theatrical performances in the city. Do not forget about the numerous cafes and restaurants in addition to jazz clubs and wine bars that are an integral part of Yerevan’s bustling nightlife.
In addition, there are a bunch of child-friendly cafes where your kids can spend time in a play zone while you are enjoying your lunch. If you want to spend more time outside, go for a picnic in TUMO park or have fun renting a bike or a skateboard in the Skate Park.
Traveling
Living in Armenia is not dull as you can embark on a diverse journey during the weekend spending only several hours on your way to an ancient temple or a medieval monastery. If you are searching for a trusted travel agency, join Levon Travel agency’s well-crafted tours to enjoy your weekends in the country. Discover the stunning landscapes of Lake Sevan, and explore ancient monasteries like Tatev or Noravank or picturesque Dilijan. Driving only 40 minutes from Yerevan you can discover a pagan temple of Garni and Geghard Monastery nestled in cliffs. Experienced Levon Travel agency staff can help you design a personalized itinerary, ensuring you make the most of your time in Armenia.