Your guide to being an expatriate in Armenia

Demographics of Armenia:

Religion Overview

Around 94% of Armenians are Christians, predominantly members of the Armenian Apostolic Church. The Armenian Apostolic Church, which was established in 301 AD, is an Oriental Orthodox Christian Church. The religion's majestic churches and monasteries, such as Geghard Monastery and Ani, have been listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Major Religions

Climate

Armenia has a continental, highland climate with cold winters and hot summers. The country experiences more than 2000 hours of sunshine per year, making it an excellent destination for tourists.

Economy Overview

Agriculture, industrial production, and services are the significant contributors to Armenia's economy. Armenia's primary agricultural products include grapes, apples, wheat, and apricots, while the industrial sector produces a range of goods, including chemicals, machinery, and food products. The service sector, which includes banking, insurance, and healthcare, accounts for the majority of the country's GDP.

Key Industries

• Agriculture
• Industry
• Services

Major Companies

• ALFA
• AIRIK
• Arcopharma
• ArmEcon
• Armthal
• Armenika Fruit and Vegetable Company
• Arntel Nork Marash
• Armtech
• Armvit Safety Distribution
• Giragosjan
• Golder Associations Armenia Office
• Horizon Holding
• Inter bet-36
• Khndzoria Glass-container Factory
• Kurinskoye
• Imperial Tobacco
• Ltd. NPK "IMAGO"
• Martunyants Engineering Shelf
• Moloko Plus
• Mitek Khashdan
• Mivar Industrial Mineral Joint-stock Company
• NSI of RA
• Pulmopharma
• RIAO Coffee
• Rink Grupp
• RV Group
• SBS Transporate
• SEB Bank
• Shanttra ENG
• Shinar Armenia
• SNR Moscow pays here
• SOFAKIB BANC
• Spring Group
• SS Global Payments
• TTK Dental
• UCOM
• Van Cittert Armenia
• Woodplc
• Zizzi
• Zvartnots-Aero

Culture and Language Overview

Armenian music, literature, arts, and dance are all essential components of Armenian culture. Armenia has a rich history of writers and poets, including Hovhannes TumANYAN, one of the country's greatest poets. These cultural elements, along with Armenian food, have garnered international attention, enticing travelers worldwide.

Cultural Highlights

• Vardavar Festival: A festival devoted to water, where people douse each other in buckets of water and water balloons, devour smoked meat, and dance in groups.
• International Tchaikovsky Competition: Held every four years, the competition brings some of the world's most talented musicians to Armenia's capital city, Yerevan.
• Yerevan Center of Contemporary Art: Hosting a series of modern art exhibitions and events, the center features sculptures and painting installations, music events, and dance performances.
• Zorats Kar: Known as Stone Sanctuary of Zorats, this monument displays astronomical and symbolic work, embraced by tourists worldwide.
• Genocide Memorial: Commemorated annually on April 24, the memorial honors the victims of the Armenian Genocide, a significant chapter in Armenian history.

Geography and Landmarks Overview

Armenia's diverse terrain encompasses mountainous regions, forests, and lakes. The country's most famous landmark is Mount Ararat, which is visible from Arpachaiux, and Lake Sevan, the largest body of water in the country.

Notable Landmarks

• Mount Ararat (the partially-in-Turkey): An extinct volcanic mountain, believed to be the biblical Mount Ararat.
• Lake Sevan: Known as the 'Lake of Ivory,' Sevan's deep blue waters are surrounded by stunning scenery.
• Khor Virap: A religious monument and a historic fortress dating back to the fourth century.
• Garni Temple: An ancient team devoted to the Sun God Mitra, built during the first century AD.
• Tatev Monastery: Depicting a beautifully fascinating aura, this eighteen-century marvel is the largest monastery in Armenia.
• Dilijan: A heritage town in Dilijan National Park, showcasing winding streams, lush greenery, and panoramic views of the Caucasus Mountains.
• Geghard Monastery: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in the Kotayk Province. Built during the 13th century, the site represents both religious and architectural heritage.
• Basilica of St. Thaddeus: Once a significant pilgrimage site for the Armenian Orthodox Church when it was constructed in 1011.

National Holidays

• New Year's Day: January 1
• Bright Holiday of Baptism: January 19
• International Women's Day: March 8
• Mashdots' Day: March 17
• April Revolution: April 24
• National Salvation Army Day: May 28
• Victory Day: June 4
• Commemoration Day of the First Republic: July 29
• Armenian Church's Dedication Day: September 14
• Independence Day: September 21
• Day of Cultural Heritage: October 2
• Repetition Commemoration Day: November 13

Political Stability

Armenia is a democratic country governed by its parliamentary system of government. The country has been experiencing a stable political atmosphere for the past few years, but some key issues include corruption, population poverty, and environmental concerns.