Foreign worker Quota system and recruitment process in the Republic of Armenia from 2026.

As we enter 2026, Armenia is set to replace its "labor market test" framework with a structured annual quota system for foreign workers. This transformation is intended to address the growing influx of foreign labor while simultaneously safeguarding the local job market.

Here are the essential elements of the new foreign worker quota system in Armenia:

• Implementation of Annual Quotas: Beginning in 2026, the Government of Armenia will establish a yearly quota system for foreign workers.
• Categorization of Quotas: The updated system will classify quotas based on residency status, job types, and defined categories, with annual determinations issued by the government.
• Introduction of Work Visa: A separate work visa will be required for individuals seeking employment. This visa must be obtained prior to applying for a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP).
• Elimination of Job Posting Requirement: The current obligation for employers to advertise vacancies on the migration portal (labor market test) to prove the absence of local candidates will be abolished.

Existing Regulations (Transition Period)

• Labor Market Test: Employers must currently demonstrate that no qualified Armenian candidate is available before hiring a foreign worker.
• Work Permit Requirement: Employers are required to obtain a work permit from the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs.
• Penalties for Non-Compliance: Hiring a foreign worker without a valid work permit may result in fines ranging from AMD 100,000 to 150,000.
• Duration of Permits: Work permits are generally issued for the duration of the employment contract, up to a maximum period of one year.

• Citizens of the EAEU: Nationals of Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) member states — including Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan — are not required to obtain work permits and may work under a valid employment contract.
• Individuals of Armenian Descent: Persons of Armenian ethnicity or those holding special residency status may work without requiring a work permit.
• Highly Skilled Workers: Certain highly qualified foreign professionals or intra-company transferees may be exempt from standard work permit requirements.

Key Statistics

• Increasing Demand: Residence permits issued for employment increased from 7,800 in 2019 to over 16,600 in 2022, stabilizing at 12,491 in 2024.
• Leading Nationalities: The majority of foreign workers originate from Russia, followed by India, Iran, Georgia, Syria, and Ukraine.
• Permit Processing Time: Work permits are generally processed within five working days, provided documentation is complete.

This framework enables the Government of Armenia to regulate foreign workforce intake based on annual labor market assessments and economic demand.

How to Obtain a Foreign Worker Quota in Armenia

To obtain a foreign worker quota, the employer submits an electronic application through the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (MLSA) platform. Required documentation includes the foreign worker’s passport, educational qualifications, photographs, and proof of state fee payment. The MLSA reviews labor market demand before approval. Once the work permit is issued, the foreign worker applies for a residence permit via the official government portal.

Employer Checklist (MLSA Submission)

• Application Form: Completed on the official electronic platform.
• Foreigner’s Passport Copy: Valid passport copy.
• Educational Qualification: Diploma or certificate relevant to the position.
• Photographs: Two 3x4 cm photos.
• State Fee: Proof of payment (approximately 25,000 AMD).
• Job Description: Detailed vacancy information.

Foreigner’s Checklist (Residence Permit Stage)

• Passport: Valid passport and notarized Armenian translation.
• Application Questionnaire: Submitted through the official migration portal.
• Work Permit: Issued by the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs.
• Medical Certificate: Required for residence permit issuance.

Key Considerations

• Quota-Based System: Work permits are granted based on labor market demand, with the Ministry verifying local workforce availability.
• Two-Step Process: The employer applies electronically for the work permit; the foreign worker applies for residence status after approval.
• Timeline: MLSA decisions are typically issued within five working days.

Galaxy Seven Recruitment & Workers Supply LLC – Application Support Service

Galaxy Seven Recruitment & Workers Supply LLC provides professional review and submission support for foreign worker quota applications in Armenia.

Through this service, institutions may request a comprehensive review by our immigration specialists. Our experts guide employers through document preparation and assist in submitting the final quota request via the official government platform.

Quota applications are submitted and assigned to the relevant government committee for review. Clients are instructed to pay state fees directly into the official government account for each approved worker, in accordance with committee authorization.

This structured presentation and compliance review significantly improves application accuracy and helps institutions progress toward lawful workforce expansion in Armenia.