If you’re moving to Armenia or planning a longer stay, one of the first practical questions comes up as soon as you land: where should you exchange money – and how much do you actually need right away?

Even if you have a bank card, having a small amount of Armenian drams in cash on your first day can be useful – for transportation, small purchases, or unexpected expenses.

Below is a clear, practical guide to help you avoid overpaying during your first hours in the country.

What Currency Should You Bring to Armenia?

Armenia has a well-developed currency exchange market. The following currencies are widely accepted and easy to exchange:

• US dollars
• Euros
• Russian rubles
• Georgian lari
• Other commonly traded currencies

There are no restrictions on exchanging these currencies. The only difference is the exchange rate and the spread – the gap between buying and selling rates.

For general reference:

• 1 USD typically ranges between 390-405 AMD
• 1 EUR is usually around 420-440 AMD
• 1 RUB averages about 4-4.5 AMD

Rates fluctuate throughout the day and vary depending on where you exchange. As a general rule, the more convenient the location, the less favorable the rate tends to be.

Where NOT to Exchange Money at Zvartnots

Right after customs control, you’ll see two exchange counters located conveniently near the exit.

However, this is usually the least выгодный option:

• exchange rates tend to be worse,
• spreads are wider,
• even small exchanges can result in noticeable losses.

For example, when exchanging $300-$500, a difference of just a few drams per dollar can add up quickly.
 

These counters mainly serve travelers who are in a hurry or unfamiliar with the airport layout.

A Better Option: Bank Branches in the Arrivals Hall

Once you enter the main arrivals hall, you’ll find a more reasonable alternative – bank branches operating inside the airport.

At Zvartnots Airport, Ardshinbank, Fast Bank, and Unibank operate 24/7 in the arrivals hall, offering full banking services and currency exchange around the clock. Importantly, these banks do not apply any additional airport markup. The exchange rates are the same as in their city branches.

If You Arrive During the Day

The most comfortable approach is to exchange a small amount at one of the bank branches inside the airport.
 

You’ll benefit from:

• more competitive rates,
• transparent conditions,
• no pressure to make a rushed decision.

If You Arrive at Night

Even at night, bank branches remain a better option than the exchange counters near customs.

However, your strategy should be slightly different:

• exchange only the minimum amount you need,
• exchange the rest the following morning in the city.

Spreads are often wider at night, so it’s better to avoid exchanging large sums after hours.

How Much Should You Exchange on Day One?

It’s generally wise to exchange enough for 1-2 days, covering:

• transportation,
• small daily expenses,
• minor purchases.

For larger amounts, it’s better to exchange money in the city, where competition between banks and exchange offices is stronger and rates may be more favorable.

To compare exchange rates in advance, you can use the AFM platform to review current offers from banks and exchange offices. This helps you avoid impulsive decisions at the airport and choose the most cost-effective option from the start.

What If You Only Have a Card?

Relying exclusively on your bank card may not be the most efficient approach.

Here’s why:

• In Armenia, Visa and Mastercard withdrawals are dispensed in Armenian drams only.
• The final exchange rate often involves multiple currency conversions.
• Additional fees may apply from both your issuing bank and the ATM’s bank.

As a result, withdrawing cash from an ATM can sometimes be less favorable than exchanging physical currency.

Cards from the MIR payment system do not function in Armenia – neither for payments nor for ATM withdrawals. If MIR is your only card, bringing cash is essential. The only exception is the MIR Travel card issued by VTB Bank Armenia.

Do You Need Cash on Your First Day?

In most cases, only a small amount.

Taxi: Yandex Go operates reliably and accepts card payments.

Hotels, restaurants, and shops: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted. Cash is usually not required.

Still, having a modest amount of drams provides peace of mind during your first hours in a new country.

Key Takeaways for Repatriates and Relocators

If you’re arriving in Armenia for work, relocation, or long-term residence:

• don’t exchange money immediately after customs,
• use bank branches in the arrivals hall,
• exchange only a small amount at the airport,
• exchange larger sums later in the city,
• plan ahead if you rely on a MIR card.

Following this simple approach will help you avoid unnecessary expenses from the very first day in Armenia.