Armenian Government Extends Refugee Status for Artsakh Residents Until 2025

The Armenian government has extended the refugee status of former Artsakh residents by another year. The decision was made during Thursday’s Cabinet meeting, meaning that those granted temporary protection in Armenia can remain under this status until December 31, 2025, with the possibility of further extension beyond that date.

The Armenian government first granted temporary protection to residents of Artsakh, also known as Nagorno-Karabakh, who fled the region due to ongoing conflict. This status gives them certain rights and protections while they are in Armenia. According to Armenian law, refugee status is issued for one year but can be extended if the need persists, as it has in this case.

The Azerbaijani occupation and military aggression in Nagorno-Karabakh has displaced thousands, forcing them to seek refuge in Armenia.

An important aspect of the new decision is the update regarding travel documents for refugees. Previously, people with temporary refugee status were issued special Armenian passports with a code number "070," and these were only valid when used alongside a separate refugee certificate. This combination allowed former Artsakh residents to travel in and out of Armenia.

Under the new regulations, the Armenian passport with the "070" code will continue to be valid, but it must still be used together with the refugee certificate. These documents are essential for refugees when leaving or entering Armenia. For those currently outside Armenia, the new rule also allows them to enter the country with their special passports.

Alongside the extension of refugee status, the Armenian government is also offering the opportunity for displaced residents of Nagorno-Karabakh to apply for Armenian citizenship. As of August 30, 2024, over 4,300 people have applied for Armenian citizenship, and about 3,000 of these applications have already been approved. Those granted citizenship will be able to permanently settle in Armenia with full rights as Armenian citizens.

Head of the Migration and Citizenship Service, Armen Ghazaryan, shared these figures during a recent session of the National Assembly’s State Legal Committee, emphasizing the significant number of people who are seeking to rebuild their lives in Armenia.

This extension is part of a broader effort to manage the refugee crisis stemming from the Nagorno-Karabakh mass exodus and reflects Armenia’s humanitarian stance on the issue. As the region remains unstable, Armenia continues to play a crucial role in providing a safe haven for those indigenous Armenians who were forced to leave their homes.