Thursday, June 1 2017 13:15

ArmInfo. Ambassador of France to Armenia Jean-Francois Charpentier found it difficult to name the terms of the beginning of the dialogue about liberalization of the visa regime between Armenia and European Union.

"Now it is difficult to talk about terms. But I want to note that the  point on the beginning of the dialogue on liberalization of the visa  regime  is involved in the agreement (an agreement on a comprehensive  and expanded partnership Armenia-EU-Editor's noted), which is planned  to be signed this fall. Let us first sign it, then the next steps  will be clear. I can only say that the issue is on the agenda, "the  diplomat said. And in this context, he talked about already existing  agreement on simplified visa regime currently in force between  Armenia and EU.

According to him, we need to analyze how the current agreement works,  and then think about the next stage.

To note, on December 17, 2012 visa facilitation agreement was signed  between Armenia and EU, which came into force on January 1, 2014.   The  agreement quickened the procedure of issuing visas in the  consulates  of EU countries, accredited to Armenia. The decision on  issuing visa  is made within 10 days and in emergency situations  within two or less  days. Besides, according to the agreement fewer  documents are needed  for receiving visa. After the signing of  agreement the price of visa  fell to 35 EUR versus 60 EUR, which the  tourists had to pay prior to  the ratification of the document.   Another advantage of the  facilitated visa regime is free of charge  visa provided to children  younger than 12, as well as to persons  with disabilities and persons  accompanying them.  The procedure of  issuing multiple entry visas has  also been facilitated, which was  too complex and time- consuming  before. Armenian citizens with  diplomatic passports do not need to  receive visas. The agreement  regulates the terms of Armenian citizen's stay in the territory of  EU.  Now this period totals 90  days in180-day period.