YEREVAN. – Our goal has always been and will be to deepen relations with Armenia in a format which is interesting for Yerevan, U.S. Ambassador John Heffern said asked whether there are political reasons for liberalization of visa regime with Armenia.

Visa regime will be liberalized on January 1 -- the day when Armenia will officially become a member of the Eurasian Economic Union.

The day for introduction of visa changes was chosen by the Armenian government during the Cabinet's meeting on Thursday.

“We have not named precise date for agreement to come into force. The Armenian government chose January 1, 2015, and we are very happy,” Ambassador said.

Armenian applicants who qualify for a B-category nonimmigrant visa (NIV) may be issued multiple-entry visas for up to 10 years for business and tourist travel to the U.S. from January 1.

Also effective January 1, 2015, U.S. citizens will be able to travel to Armenia visa-free and stay in Armenia for up to 180 days per calendar year.