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Armenia

 

Armenia is a landlocked country located in the South Caucasus region of Eurasia, bordered by Turkey to the west, Georgia to the north, Azerbaijan to the east, and Iran to the south. It is a nation with a rich history that dates back thousands of years, often considered one of the earliest cradles of civilization. Armenia was the first country to adopt Christianity as its state religion in 301 AD, which is a central aspect of its cultural identity. The capital city, Yerevan, is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities. Armenia's landscape is predominantly mountainous, with fast-flowing rivers and few forests. The country is also home to the majestic Mount Ararat, which is a national symbol even though it is located just across the modern-day border in Turkey. The Armenian Genocide of 1915 is a significant and tragic part of its history, with its memory still having a profound impact on the nation and its diaspora. Despite its challenging past, Armenia has a vibrant cultural life, featuring ancient monasteries, rich traditions in carpet weaving, and a strong chess presence, being one of the top nations in the sport. The economy is growing, with a focus on industries such as IT and tourism, although it faces challenges due to its landlocked position and closed borders with Turkey and Azerbaijan. The Armenian people are known for their hospitality, and the country has a burgeoning food scene that includes traditional dishes like khorovats (Armenian barbecue) and lavash (a type of flatbread).

Cost of Living

The cost of living in Armenia is generally considered moderate. Basic goods and services are affordable, and while Yerevan can be more expensive than other areas, it is still less costly compared to many Western cities.

Weather

Armenia has a highland continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Precipitation is relatively low but can be heavier in the mountainous regions. The country experiences a large variation in temperature throughout the year, with cold winters often bringing snow, especially in higher altitudes, and hot summers with temperatures that can exceed 35°C (95°F) in the valleys.

Educational System Armenia

The educational system in Armenia is structured to provide free and accessible education to all children. Education in Armenia typically starts with two years of pre-school education, although it is not mandatory. The compulsory education begins at the age of six and spans twelve years, divided into primary (grades 1-4), middle (grades 5-9), and high school (grades 10-12). The Armenian government has been working on educational reforms to improve the quality of education, including curriculum development and teacher training. Armenian schools focus on a broad curriculum that includes Armenian language and literature, mathematics, natural sciences, social sciences, foreign languages, and physical education. Many schools also offer art and music classes. The academic year runs from September to June and is divided into two semesters. Upon completion of high school, students take state exams that determine their eligibility for higher education. There are also private and international schools available, offering different curricula and languages of instruction, which might be more suitable for expatriate families. These schools often follow international educational standards and prepare students for international baccalaureate or other foreign qualification exams.

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Visa & Residency

Obtaining a residency visa in Armenia involves several steps and can be considered an average challenge compared to other countries. Expats looking to reside in Armenia typically apply for either a Temporary Residence Visa (TRV) or a Permanent Residence Visa (PRV). The TRV is suitable for those who intend to stay in Armenia for a specific period, such as employees, students, or digital nomads, and is valid for one year with the possibility of extension. To apply for a TRV, applicants must submit a completed application form, a valid passport, photos, a health insurance policy, and other documents depending on the purpose of their stay, such as an employment contract or a letter of invitation. For those seeking long-term residency, the PRV is the appropriate choice and is valid for five years with the possibility of renewal. Applicants for a PRV must provide proof of their ability to support themselves financially, a clean criminal record, and a medical certificate, among other requirements. The process begins with submitting the necessary documents to the Passport and Visa Department of the Police of the Republic of Armenia or to an Armenian embassy or consulate abroad. After the submission, the application is reviewed, which can take up to 30 days for a TRV and up to 60 days for a PRV. If approved, the applicant will receive a visa, which they can use to enter Armenia and then apply for a residency card. The difficulty of the process can vary based on the applicant's nationality, the completeness of their application, and their reason for applying. However, Armenia has been known to have a relatively straightforward and accessible visa policy, which encourages expats and digital nomads to consider it as a destination. It is always recommended to check the latest regulations and to consult with the Armenian embassy or consulate for the most accurate and updated information.

Living in Armenia

Healthcare in Armenia

The healthcare system in Armenia is a mix of public and private services. The public healthcare system is accessible to all citizens and legal residents, including expatriates and digital nomads who have registered with the state medical insurance system. Public healthcare is funded by the government and is generally affordable, but it may lack some of the advanced technologies and amenities found in private facilities. Private healthcare in Armenia offers more modern facilities and shorter wait times, but at a higher cost. Quality of care can vary significantly between different hospitals and regions, with the capital, Yerevan, having the best-equipped medical centers. Expats and digital nomads can access public healthcare once they have residency status and are contributing to the social security system, but many opt for private health insurance to cover private healthcare services, which provide a higher standard of care and more comfortable conditions.

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