Turkey and Armenia have agreed on simplifying the visa regime, facilitating travel for holders of diplomatic passports, as part of the process of normalizing relations.

The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced an agreement with Armenia to simplify the visa regime, an important step in the process of normalizing relations between the two countries. Starting from January 1, 2026, holders of diplomatic, special, and service passports from both states will be able to obtain free electronic visas. This decision underscores the commitment of both governments to continue dialogue and build a relationship without preconditions.

Relations between Turkey and Armenia have been affected by historical tensions and Turkey's support for Azerbaijan, and the common border has been closed since the 1990s. However, in 2021, the two countries began a dialogue by appointing special envoys. These efforts come in the context of attempts to reduce tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan, following the 2020 conflict over control of the Nagorno-Karabakh region. Additionally, the historical dispute regarding the Armenian genocide persists, which Armenia recognizes, while Turkey contests this interpretation.