Turkey and Armenia have agreed to simplify visa procedures to make travel between the two countries easier, as part of ongoing efforts to normalize ties. Historically, relations have been strained due to Turkey’s alliance with Azerbaijan, the closed border since the 1990s, and disputes over the 1915 mass killings of Armenians, which Turkey denies were genocide. The countries began working toward normalization in 2021, including appointing special envoys and coordinating alongside Armenia-Azerbaijan reconciliation efforts. Starting January 1, holders of diplomatic, special, and service passports will be eligible for free electronic visas. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to continue the normalization process without preconditions.
