Knowledge base / Living in Armenia
How to move money to Armenia: bank transfers, services and cash
Bank transfer to your own account
This is the most transparent option for larger sums. First open an account with an Armenian bank; see personal bank account in Armenia. Then send an international transfer using the bank's SWIFT code, your account number and your name in Latin letters exactly as the bank has it.
Armenian banks review incoming transfers and can ask about the sender, the purpose and the source of funds. Transfers from banks under international sanctions may be refused. Before sending a large amount, check the route with both banks.
If you are sending from Russia, note that on 8 December 2025 the Bank of Russia lifted its limits on transfers abroad for Russian citizens and non-residents from "friendly" countries. Previously there was a cap of $1 million a month through banks. Russian currency control rules, such as notifying the tax service about a foreign account, still apply.
Money transfer services
These suit smaller amounts. Wise, for example, pays out to Armenian bank accounts in AMD from many countries. From Russia, Unistream was reported to serve Armenia as of June 2026, including ArCa cards, with limits of 100,000 RUB per transfer and 600,000 RUB a month.
Available services, fees and limits change often and depend on the sending country. Check the provider's own website before every large transfer.
Bringing cash
- Up to $10,000
Cash and traveller's cheques up to this total per person do not need to be declared. All currencies are added together. - Above $10,000
Fill in a written passenger declaration and use the red channel. You may bring more, but you must not hide it. - Other monetary instruments
Cheques other than traveller's cheques, promissory notes and similar instruments are declared regardless of the amount.
Armenia is a member of the Eurasian Economic Union, so these cash rules are common to the union. Funds on bank cards are not declared.
Exchanging currency
Yerevan has many exchange offices and bank counters. Rates differ, so compare a few. The Central Bank of Armenia publishes reference rates. For a large amount, exchange at a bank so you have a record of the operation.
Source-of-funds documents
- A salary statement or a tax return.
- A sale contract for property, a car or securities.
- A statement from the account the money was sent or withdrawn from.
- Your customs declaration if you brought cash above the threshold.
The bank may ask for these when a large amount arrives. Without them, funds can be held until the review is complete.
Common mistakes
- Not declaring cash above $10,000. This breaks customs rules and can lead to a fine and delays at the border.
- Splitting amounts or using unknown intermediaries. Banks spot these patterns and block accounts.
- Receiving business income into a personal account. Use a sole proprietorship or LLC account for that.
- Throwing away the declaration and statements. The bank and the tax authority may need them later.
Frequently asked questions
How do I send money from abroad to my Armenian bank account?
Open an account with an Armenian bank, then send an international transfer using its SWIFT code, your account number and your name in Latin letters exactly as the bank has it.
Which money transfer services work to Armenia?
Wise pays out to Armenian accounts in AMD from many countries. From Russia, Unistream was reported to serve Armenia as of June 2026, with limits of 100,000 RUB per transfer and 600,000 RUB a month.
How much cash can I bring into Armenia without declaring it?
Up to $10,000 in cash and traveller's cheques per person, with all currencies added together. Above that, file a written declaration and use the red channel. Money on bank cards is not declared.
What proof of funds do Armenian banks ask for large transfers?
Typically a salary statement or tax return, a sale contract for property, a car or securities, a statement from the sending account, or your customs declaration for cash. Without them funds can be held.
Moving your business to Armenia?
We register sole proprietorships and LLCs, help open a bank account and prepare documents for the bank's review. We speak English and Russian.
Sources: State Revenue Committee, border guide for individuals; Zvartnots Airport, customs control; Bank of Russia, on lifting transfer limits; T—Zh, transfers from Russia in 2026; Wise, sending money to Armenia.