Armenian Bank Cards: How to Choose and Get the Most Profitable One in 2025

In 2025, Armenian banks are offering hundreds of different debit cards — with cashback, interest on balance, free maintenance, and travel bonuses. To choose the one that truly fits your needs and avoid overpaying for services, it’s important to compare the available offers and focus on the most cost-effective option. But how do you do that without wasting hours on research?

AFM collects and updates offers from all Armenian banks on a daily basis, so you can quickly find the most beneficial debit card — tailored to your lifestyle and financial goals. In this article, we’ll break down which cards are really worth it, which banks issue them, and how to apply online and save time.

The selected cards combine the features that matter most to users: cashback, interest on the balance, easy online application, and in some cases — extra perks like airport lounge access or free card delivery. All data is based on user preferences collected by AFM and official bank information.

What Is a Debit Card and Why Do You Need One?

A debit card is a banking tool that lets you spend only the money available in your account. Unlike credit cards, it doesn’t involve borrowing from the bank. A debit card is useful for paying for goods and services, withdrawing cash, shopping online, and even earning cashback or interest on your balance.

Types of Debit Cards in Armenia

The Armenian market offers a variety of debit card types, each serving different purposes and usage preferences:

1. Digital cards – Issued entirely online, offering secure and convenient use. The card is stored in your bank’s app and has no physical copy. Otherwise, it functions just like a regular card.
2. Plastic cards – Traditional physical cards, often with courier delivery to your preferred location.
3. Personalized and non-personalized cards – Personalized cards take longer to issue but are safer if lost.
4. Multicurrency cards – Useful for travelers or those making purchases in various currencies.

Which Payment Systems Are Available in Armenia?

You’ll find several payment systems operating in Armenia:

1. ArCa – A local system used for domestic transactions.
2. Visa and MasterCard – International systems with global acceptance.
3. American Express, UnionPay, Diners Club – Less common, but available at selected banks.

Card Tiers:

1. Standard – Basic banking functions.
2. Gold – Extra perks from payment systems, higher interest rates on balance, custom card designs.
3. Premium – Enhanced cashback, airport lounge access, concierge services, and insurance benefits.

5 Key Criterias on How to Choose the Most Profitable Debit Card

When choosing a card, consider the following factors:

1. Annual service fee – Ranges from 0 to 60,000 AMD per year.
2. Cashback – A percentage of money returned from purchases.
3. Interest on balance – Extra earnings if you keep funds on the card.
4. Cash withdrawal terms – Includes limits and withdrawal fees.
5. Additional features – Card delivery, mobile banking apps, lounge access, and more.

How to Tell If a Card Is Truly Worth It?

A debit card is considered cost-effective if it delivers tangible financial benefits with minimal expenses. For example:

1. If you spend a lot, prioritize high cashback and bonus programs.
2. If you keep funds on the card, focus on interest on the balance.
3. The service fee also matters — sometimes a “free” card turns out more expensive due to hidden fees.

The ideal card offers a balanced combination of features tailored to your lifestyle: spending habits, savings behavior, and travel needs.

Comparison Table: Most Popular Debit Cards in Armenia

These cards weren’t chosen at random — each offers specific advantages for users. Some stand out for high interest on balance, others for generous cashback. These are the most popular debit cards in Armenia in 2025.

Digital Debit Cards in Armenia: Which Banks Offer Them

Digital debit cards are among the most in-demand banking products in 2025. They don’t require a physical card, are issued instantly online, and are ideal for online payments, subscriptions, and quick activation. All you need is a smartphone and a few minutes.

Here’s a list of banks in Armenia that offer digital debit cards:

1. Acba Bank
2. Ameriabank
3. AMIO Bank
4. Armeconombank
5. Artsakhbank
6. Byblos Bank Armenia
7. Converse Bank
8. Evocabank
9. IDBank
10. Araratbank
11. Inecobank

Tips for Choosing a Debit Card

1. Use filters on AFM to eliminate unsuitable options right away.
2. Check cashback conditions — high cashback often applies only to specific spending categories.
3. Read the fine print — free maintenance may require a minimum balance or monthly turnover.
4. Clarify how interest on balance is calculated — daily or monthly.
5. Choose digital cards if you need fast issuance without visiting a branch.
6. Verify which transactions are eligible for cashback — transfers and utility payments are often excluded.
7. If you need a card urgently, look for banks that offer instant issuance or digital options.

How to Apply for a Debit Card in Armenia: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Visit the AFM website and use the filters: purpose, currency, bank, card type.
2. Review and compare card offers to find the one that suits your needs.
3. Click “Apply” next to the selected card.
4. Fill out the application form, enter your passport details, and upload any required documents.
5. Wait for confirmation — receive your card at a branch or by delivery, if available.

FAQ About Debit Cards in Armenia

Can I get a card without visiting the bank?

Yes. Many Armenian banks offer fully remote issuance of debit cards. This is especially true for digital cards — you simply upload your documents through the website or mobile app, and the card can be ready within a day. If it’s your first interaction with the bank, a representative may visit you to issue the card and verify your identity.

What documents are required to apply?

Usually, a passport is enough. Some banks may also request a social security card or proof of income, particularly if the card comes with additional financial tools or credit features.

Can non-residents apply for a card?

Yes. Almost all banks in Armenia issue debit cards to non-residents. The main requirements typically include a social card and proof of income. These conditions apply in banks such as Acba Bank, Armeconombank, Evocabank, and other major institutions. Note that non-residents may have to pay extra fees for account opening and maintenance.

Are there cards with no service fees?

Yes. For example, the Visa Digital card from Inecobank and digital cards from Evocabank are completely free. These are a great choice if you prefer online banking and want to avoid paying for card maintenance.

Why is a free card with cashback and interest the best option?

Such cards allow you to save on service fees, earn cashback on purchases, and gain interest on your balance — all at the same time. This rare combination provides high value with zero extra cost. It's ideal for active users who want to keep their finances flexible.

Can I have multiple debit cards from different banks?

Yes, there are no limits. It’s even practical — for instance, you might use one card for savings and another for everyday spending with cashback.

Which is better: a debit or credit card?

If you prefer to spend only your own money and avoid debt, a debit card is safer and more cost-effective. A credit card suits those who can manage their budget carefully and repay the borrowed amount within the grace period.

So, Which Cards Are the Best in 2025?

Most users aim for the same goal: maximum value with zero unnecessary costs. That’s why two key criteria determine whether a debit card is truly beneficial:

1. Free service – lowers your expenses directly. No issuance, usage, or maintenance fees. Even if you rarely use the card, it won’t eat into your balance through hidden charges.
2. Cashback and interest on balance – give you passive returns. You spend — and earn some of it back. You save — and earn interest like on a deposit. Interest is usually calculated daily or monthly, depending on the bank.

This triple benefit is rare: most cards offer either cashback, or interest, or free maintenance — but not all three. That’s why we’ve highlighted the few cards that offer all of these advantages.

As of 2025, only Evocabank offers this full combination.

Top Debit Cards Matching All Key Criteria

Conclusion

In 2025, a debit card in Armenia is more than just a tool for everyday purchases — it’s a way to gain extra benefits: cashback, interest on your balance, and travel perks.

Before choosing a card, define your goals:

1. If you frequently pay at supermarkets — look for high cashback.
2. If you usually keep funds on the card — choose one with interest on balance.
3. If you travel often — prioritize cards with lounge access and international payment systems.

To make the right choice, focus not just on advertising promises, but on the real numbers: annual fees, hidden charges, and bonus conditions.

A debit card is not just a banking product — it's a daily advantage. With AFM, you can easily find the best card for your needs — with cashback, interest, zero maintenance fees, and exclusive benefits.

Make the most of the financial tools already available in Armenia. And if you found this article useful — share it with friends and family. It might help them save money and find the best option too․