The Armenian Consulate General in Los Angeles is one of the key diplomatic institutions that actively serves the interests of Armenian citizens and strengthens the ties between Armenia and the United States. Located in the culturally rich and multinational heart of California, the consulate plays a crucial role in influencing social and economic aspects of life for both the Armenian diaspora and the broader region.
History and Mission
The history of the Armenian presence in the United States dates back to the early 17th century, with the arrival of the first Armenian, known as Martin the Armenian, in Virginia in 1618. Since then, Armenians have steadily settled across the country. By the early 20th century, Armenia faced a tragic period of genocide, which led to a mass exodus of Armenians abroad, particularly to the United States, where a significant Armenian diaspora took shape.
The Consulate of Armenia in Los Angeles advocates for the protection of the rights and interests of Armenian citizens residing in the U.S. and promotes the development of trade, economic, cultural, and educational ties between Armenia and the United States. The consulate also disseminates information about Armenia’s domestic and foreign policies as well as its cultural life.
Services Provided
The consulate actively offers a range of consular services, including:
- Visa Issuance: Processing visas for foreign citizens wishing to visit Armenia.
- Registration of Civil Status Acts: Managing the registration of marriages, births, and other civil status acts.
- Document Legalization: Ensuring that documents are legally recognized and valid.
- Notarial Services: Providing notarization for various documents.
Moreover, the consulate participates in the preparation of intergovernmental visits and fosters bilateral relations through cultural exchanges and business interactions.
Service Territory
The consular jurisdiction of the Armenian Consulate General in Los Angeles covers 16 states and territories in the U.S., including:
- Alaska
- Arizona
- California
- Colorado
- Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands
- Guam
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Montana
- New Mexico
- Nevada
- Oregon
- Utah
- Washington
- Wyoming
The Armenian Diaspora in California
California is home to the largest Armenian community in the USA, with more than half of all Armenians in the country residing here. The first Armenian arrived in California in 1874, and by 1930, Los Angeles became a key center of Armenian life in the state. Notable neighborhoods with high concentrations of Armenian residents include Glendale and Hollywood.
Cultural initiatives flourish in California, with numerous Armenian schools, churches, television programs, and newspapers published in the Armenian language actively contributing to the community’s vibrant cultural life.
Contact Information and Office Hours
The consulate is located at:
346 N Central Ave, Glendale, CA 91203.
It is open from Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Appointment scheduling is required for visits to the consular section.
For further information, you may contact the consulate at +1(818) 265-5900. Additional details regarding the consulate’s activities in California can be found on the official website: la.mfa.am.
The Armenian Consulate General in Los Angeles continues to fulfill a vital mission in supporting the Armenian diaspora and strengthening friendly relations between Armenia and the United States. Its operations play a crucial role in improving the welfare of Armenian citizens and contribute significantly to the development of cultural and economic ties between the peoples.
