Sadakhlo Border Crossing: Georgia to Armenia 2026 Guide

The Sadakhlo (Georgia) to Bagratashen (Armenia) crossing is the main road border between the two countries, about 1.5 hours south of Tbilisi. It is the easiest border run for people based in Tbilisi and the usual route between Tbilisi and Yerevan.

Quick Facts

• Georgia side: Sadakhlo, Kvemo Kartli
• Armenia side: Bagratashen, Tavush province
• From Tbilisi: about 1.5 hours
• Tbilisi to Yerevan: about 5 to 6 hours by shared minibus (marshrutka)

Entry Rules

Armenia: US, EU and many other passports can enter Armenia visa-free for up to 180 days a year. Other nationalities may need an e-visa. Check before you travel.

Georgia: citizens of more than 90 countries can stay visa-free for up to one year per entry. Since January 1, 2026, all tourists entering Georgia must have health and accident insurance with at least 30,000 GEL of coverage for their whole stay. Carry proof for your return.

Getting There

Marshrutkas to Yerevan leave from Tbilisi’s Avlabari and Ortachala areas through the day. For a quick run, take a shared taxi or minibus to Sadakhlo, cross, and come back from Bagratashen. A night train between Tbilisi and Yerevan also runs in season.

Crossing Step By Step

1. Get stamped out of Georgia at Sadakhlo
2. Cross the Debed river bridge to the Armenian post
3. Get stamped into Armenia
4. Return the same way, showing your insurance if asked on re-entry to Georgia

Bring Proof Of Onward Travel

Border officers on a visa run are deciding one thing: will you leave again on time? A confirmed onward or return booking is the quickest way to answer that. It matters most when you are re-entering a country you only just left, and on the flight leg if your run involves one.

If you do not want to commit to a real ticket yet, Fast Onward Tickets issues an onward flight reservation in minutes. See our complete guide to proof of onward travel for what officers and airlines accept.

FAQs

Is Sadakhlo better than Sarpi?

From Tbilisi, yes. From Batumi, Sarpi is much closer.

Can I go to Azerbaijan instead?

Azerbaijan’s land borders have been closed to most travelers in recent years. Check current status before planning a run there.

Do I need Armenian dram?

For a quick run, no. For a trip to Yerevan, cards work widely.

Planning another run? See all our border run and land crossing guides, organized by region.

The Bottom Line

Sadakhlo is the easy reset for Tbilisi residents. Bring your insurance, and consider a few days in Yerevan while you are there.