FAQs

The question “In Azerbaijan, can an e-visa be converted to a TRC?” is commonly asked by foreigners who wish to travel, work, or stay in Azerbaijan as visitors. It is especially relevant for travelers who arrive on a short-term e-visa and later decide to stay longer. The short answer is no: there is no mechanism to convert an e-visa into a Temporary Residence Card (TRC). However, you may apply for a TRC separately, provided you meet the legal grounds and follow immigration rules. What is an e-visa in Azerbaijan? The Azerbaijan e-visa is an online entry visa issued through the ASAN Visa system. Valid for a stay of up to 30 days. Usually issued for tourism, business visits, or medical treatment. Applied for online and typically processed within 3 business days. An e-visa is for short-term stays only. It does not grant the right to work, study, or reside long-term in Azerbaijan. What is a TRC in Azerbaijan? A Temporary Residence Card (TRC) is a residence permit issued by the State Migration Service (SMS) of Azerbaijan. It allows foreigners to reside in the country legally, typically on a renewable yearly basis. Foreigners may: Exit and re-enter Azerbaijan multiple times without needing new visas while the TRC is valid. Work, Study, be with family members: lawful residence. Access services such as renting property, opening a bank account, or registering utilities. Why an e-visa cannot be converted to TRC Many visitors believe they can upgrade an e-visa to a TRC after arrival, but the law distinguishes between the two: An e-visa is temporary and is issued for tourism or other short visits. A TRC requires a legal basis, such as employment, study, investment, family reunification, or property ownership. The conditions, documentation, and eligibility requirements for an e-visa differ entirely from those for a TRC; therefore, no conversion is possible. When entering Azerbaijan on an e-visa and then deciding to stay long-term, you are required to have the documents ready and apply for long-term residence of the country with the State Migration Service. How to apply for a TRC in Azerbaijan Your intention of visiting needs to change and you want to extend your stay in Azerbaijan, this is the right way; Establish eligibility: The following are common grounds to apply, the job contract, the study at a local university, the possession of property, or relatives family member of a resident. Collect the documents: Passport, valid visa, confirmation of the place of accommodation, medical insurance, employment contract or letter of admission to the study, and any other additional documents. Employer sponsorship (Where relevant): On work based TRC, the Azerbaijani employer must issue a work permit to you before you file. Application to SMS: Submit application to SMS within the expiry of your e-visa. Awaiting approval: It may take some weeks to process so it is wise to submit early. Risks of overstaying an e-visa If you attempt to stay in Azerbaijan beyond your e-visa validity without applying for a TRC, you will face: Fines for overstaying. Possible deportation. A ban on re-entering Azerbaijan for a certain period. Following the proper legal process is always the safer option. Conclusion In short, it is not possible to convert an Azerbaijan e-visa to a TRC. The two serve different purposes: The TRC is used in regard to staying long term due to employment, academic or family purpose, and the e-visa is used when staying on a short-term basis in the country. Just in case you wish to have more time in Azerbaijan than the e-visa term, you will need to respect the law and apply to have an extension of stay known as TRC by submitting related documents. This would make you be in line with the law on immigration, protect your status and have a stress-free stay in Azerbaijan.

The most common question among many foreign professionals and expatriates who arrive in Azerbaijan on work visas besides others is: Can a work visa with a valid work permit be used to apply for a TRC in Azerbaijan? Knowledge of the rules is important, since immigration regulations in Azerbaijan are very specific and non-compliance can lead to fines, visa cancellation, or even deportation. The short answer is: Yes, holders of a valid work visa and work permit may apply for a Temporary Residence Card (TRC) in Azerbaijan; however, this is not an automatic conversion. Rather, there is a formal application procedure which is conducted with the State Migration Service (SMS). What is a TRC in Azerbaijan? A Temporary Residence Card (TRC) is a residence document issued to foreign citizens to live in Azerbaijan longer than when having a regular visa. Foreigners with TRC will be able to: Live legally in Azerbaijan without constantly renewing a visa. Exit and re-enter the country multiple times while it is valid. Access services such as renting property, opening a bank account, or activating utilities. Be permitted to remain as a member of their family legally when dependents are allowed to receive residence permits also. Typically, a TRC is valid for one year but may be renewed annually or biannually depending on the basis of stay. Open work permit visa vs. TRC It is important to understand the distinction: Work visa with work permit: This is issued to foreign nationals who are hired by an Azerbaijani company. It enables the holder to reside and operate in the country lawfully and only up to when the employment is up. TRC (Temporary residence card): This grants better rights to residency. Although it can be obtained on the basis of employment, a TRC is not limited to the conditions of one visa. Therefore, the work permit visa provides you with entry and permission to work whereas the TRC permits you to legally stay in Azerbaijan long-term. Can you convert a work permit visa to TRC? Technically, no work permit visa automatically converts into a TRC. But when you are in Azerbaijan as an agent of a good work visa and a work permit you can obtain TRC. This is the process: Employment contract and work permit: Your initial right to remain in the country must be a legal employment contract and a work permit sponsored by a local employer of Azerbaijan. Application to State Migration Service (SMS): Apply to the State Migration Service (SMS) with application on Temporary Residence Card accompanied by your work permit. Relevant documentation: This usually includes your passport, valid visa, work permit, employer’s registration documents, proof of accommodation, and health insurance. Approval: Should the requirements be met, the SMS issues a TRC to you, usually 12 months validity which can be renewed should you still be in employment. So while the visa itself cannot be “converted,” your work permit provides the legal basis for applying for and receiving a TRC. Challenges and considerations Employer sponsorship: The employer must be registered and compliant with Azerbaijani authorities. If you lose your job, your basis for a TRC may no longer be valid. Processing: The turn-around time of the applications done may take some weeks hence you should submit the applications early before your visa expires. Dependants: Your dependents which include family members are also capable of applying for TRCs based on your work permit and residency. Compliance: Overstaying a visa before the arrival of a TRC can attract penalties and thus timing should be keenly pegged. Conclusion That is why the question arises whether the open work permit visa can be transformed into TRC in Azerbaijan? The fact is that you do not automatically get a conversion, but your legal work permission, nevertheless, will enable you to apply to the State Migration Service and get a Temporary Residence Card. The procedure will help you to reside in Azerbaijan legally and safely, so that you have greater opportunities, and you can build your stay without fear. The safest and legitimate way of arriving at a longer residence is, therefore, to get a work permit and after that, apply to Azerbaijan population registers as a foreign citizen after acquiring a TRC.

Studying internationally is usually accompanied by the necessity to earn money on your own, so a lot of international students seek to find a side job. In case you are thinking of Azerbaijan as a place to be studying, you might have asked: Can a student visa holder in Azerbaijan get a driving job? The direct answer is, international students under a student visa are not allowed to be employed in driving work in Azerbaijan. Let’s look at why this is the case and what options are available. Why student visa holders cannot take driving jobs in Azerbaijan In Azerbaijan, there are restrictions put on the immigration and labour laws in relation to what the international students can and cannot do. A student will be issued with a student visa because he wants to obtain an education in a recognized university or an institution. It does not incorporate the right to engage in any paid employment — whether part-time or full-time — including professional driving jobs. Driving jobs, such as working for taxi services, delivery companies, or private transportation providers, usually require: A valid work permit. Registration with local labor authorities. Professional driving licenses recognized in Azerbaijan. Student visa is not in line with these stipulations; therefore, an individual in possession of a student visa type is not legally authorized to work as a driver. This may lead to penalties such as fines, visa cancellation, or even deportation, which is likely to come as a result of trying to do this unofficially. What jobs are available for students in Azerbaijan? Despite the prohibition of driving jobs, other working opportunities are also available as part time jobs in Azerbaijan to international students. These tend to be non-formal or limited, and yet they may assist with life costs. The typical choices are: Language teaching: As the fluency in any other world-recognized language such as English, French or Italian, you can get opportunities in language centers. There is a high demand of native speakers. Translation work: Bilingual and multilingual students are able to translate freelance or interpreting. Hospitality and retail: Restaurant waiters, shop assistants and cafe workers are sought after, part-time jobs by students. Security and safeguarding: Some students find part-time jobs as guards or event staff. Tutoring: One-to-one language courses or subject tutoring may be a suitable idea to consider in case a person possesses some teaching skills. While these types of jobs are common among international students, they are only legal if you obtain a valid work permit. Unlike regulated driving jobs, employers in sectors such as teaching or hospitality are more likely to sponsor student work permits. Challenges for international students It is not so easy to find employment in Azerbaijan as an international student as in more developed countries. Part of the difficulties are: Language: Azerbaijani and Russian are used broadly and the lack of knowledge in them may lead to the inability to obtain jobs. Visa limits: A student visa does not automatically grant any work rights. To take any paid job, you must apply for and obtain a separate work permit through your employer. Restricted opportunities: Part-time student employment in small economies is less available and in some cases, they might not be well paid when compared to bigger economies. However, students who are determined and flexible often find ways to support themselves, especially if they leverage their language skills. Legal and practical advice As a student visa holder in Azerbaijan you should remember the following: You never want to work as a driver without authorization. It is contrary to the rules of the visa and may endanger your residence. Apply only for opportunities where an employer is willing to help you obtain a work permit, such as teaching or hospitality. These sectors are generally more open to hiring international students legally. To get information about the allowed work activities contact your university's international office. Be kept within the confines of visa regulations, because failure to follow can jeopardise not only your ongoing studies, but also any possibility of future visa requests. Conclusion So, can a student visa holder in Azerbaijan get a driving job? The answer is no. Driving positions demand work permits and drives licenses, which the student visas do not entail. Alternatively, foreign students are advised to seek other part-time jobs e.g. part-time language teaching, translation, or hospitality work. Although the job market may not be as wide in Azerbaijan as in any more developed country, with the right skills and determination, students can find ways to earn income legally and safely.

Often, when one is considering the process of traveling on workation abroad, a question arises whether it is possible to come there on a tourist or visit visa, and then transition to a work visa without leaving the country. In case you are thinking about Azerbaijan, you may be wondering: “Can I convert my Azerbaijan visit visa to a work visa after entering Azerbaijan?”. The short straightforward answer is no, inside Azerbaijan, your visit visa cannot be converted to a work visa. Why you cannot convert a visit visa to a work visa in Azerbaijan A visit visa (also known as a tourist visa) is issued on a short-term basis, including tourism or visiting family and friends or attending short-term events. It will not permit your work or earning of income in Azerbaijan. A work visa on the other hand is meant to support an individual who finds an employment opportunity in Azerbaijan and fulfills all the conditions fixed by the State Migration Service. This is in the form of a proper employment contract, sponsorship by a company in Azerbaijan and also by professional or qualification criteria. It is impossible to convert one to the other after arrival, because the requirements for a visit visa are completely different from those for a work visa. International norms and Azerbaijan’s policy Such a rule is not peculiar to Azerbaijan. Indeed, in the majority of the countries in the world, a visitor visa cannot be converted to a work visa (e.g. UK, USA, Canada, and the EU countries, among others). This is because of a simple reason: Visitor visa establishes that you are in position to visit temporarily, but not work. A work visa needs various documentation, background checks and governmental approvals. Azerbaijan follows the same international standard. If you wish to work legally, you must apply for a work visa from your home country or country of residence, not after entering with a visit visa. What happens if you try to work on a visit visa? Attempting to work in Azerbaijan on a visit visa is considered a violation of immigration laws. The consequences may include: Immediate cancellation of your visa. Fines or legal penalties. Deportation from Azerbaijan. A ban on re-entering Azerbaijan for a certain period of time. Overstaying your visit visa or breaking its terms can also harm your chances of obtaining any future visa, including work visas. The correct way to apply for a work visa in Azerbaijan This is how you go about it, in case your intention is to get a job in Azerbaijan: Receive a work proposal by an employer in Azerbaijan. Employer sponsorship: Your employer in Azerbaijan has to apply to the State Migration Service in order to get a work permit on your behalf. Work permit approval: The work permit will be approved and you will possess documents backing your work visa application. Apply in your home country or country of legal residence whereby; it is recommended the work visa is applied at the Azerbaijani embassy and consulate. Go to Azerbaijan on the work visa, and then enroll in the State Migration Service in case of necessity. How long does the work visa process take? The processing timeframe will depend on your nationality, the documentation of your employer and the caseload of the Azerbaijani immigration authorities. Overall, the length of time required to approve is several weeks to a few months. This is the reason it is important to plan in advance and you should not come to Azerbaijan on the visit visa hoping to subsequently convert it. Conclusion So, can you change your Azerbaijan visit visa to a work visa after entering the country? The answer is no. Basically, you would have to get a working visa in Azerbaijan, or any country for that matter, from outside of the country you are trying to go to. To work and live in Azerbaijan, it is best to seek an employer, have him or her sponsor the work permit and then obtain the appropriate visa prior to travelling. It also cannot be denied that following the appropriate legal procedure will require a longer period of time, but it will make the first days of your work in Azerbaijan easier and avoid possible problems with immigration in the future.

Baku’s climate and weather patterns Baku experiences a semi-arid climate due to the effects of the presence of the Caspian Sea on western side. Winter months are mild and to some extent wet, whereas the summer months are hot and dry. The city is also notoriously windy - hence its popular name, The City of Winds. Being situated along the coast along with moderate altitude, Baku is less snowy especially compared to inland and higher altitude areas of the territory of Azerbaijan. When it snows they usually last a relatively short period of time because the temperatures are not so low. How often does it snow? Baku registers approximately 7 to 8 snowfall days on average each year, with a total annual accumulation of around 35 mm (1.38 inches) of snow. In some years, the city experiences only a few light snowfalls, and in some years the snow measured during the entire winter can amount to zero. The most prevalent snowfall happens in January and February and lasts only several days. Light snows in November, December or March are the rarest of all and occur in some years, too. Typical winter temperatures Winter temperatures in Baku generally range from 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). While cold snaps can occur, extreme lows are rare. Historical records show that in rare cases, temperatures have dropped to -13°C (about 9°F), but such extremes are extremely uncommon—possibly only once in several decades. When and where snow is more likely Within the city: snow in Baku itself can be light and it lasts a day or two before melting. It does not reach levels to disrupt travel to a great degree. Fringe destinations: Leave the city behind and enter mountainous terrain and snowfall will be much better higher up (such as in the Caucasus mountains of northern Azerbaijan) and more often falls in winter. The areas possess very beautiful snow-covered sceneries and people throng them during the winters. December snowfall snapshot In December, Baku averages 0.7 days of snow and about 2 mm (0.08 inches) of accumulation. This means snow is possible but not guaranteed during the start of the winter season. What to expect if visiting in winter If your visit to Baku is between late November and early March, you might see snow; however, it is not guaranteed. During the winter in Baku it would tend to be cold winds and sometimes light rain. Nevertheless, when the snow finally comes it gives a magical sense of life to classical streets and the sea views in the city. Final thoughts Baku, Azerbaijan, does get snow but usually it is light, rare and of short duration. There are usually a few snowy days; most often in January or February, but in many winters, there may be none at all. People who want to spend their winter time in a real winter wonderland will have a considerably higher possibility of seeing lots of snow by traveling towards the mountainous areas of Azerbaijan.

Understand the types of Azerbaijan visas Azerbaijan issues two main types of visas: E-Visa (ASAN visa): This is the most common choice for tourists and business travelers. Sticker visa: Affixed directly into your passport, issued by an Azerbaijani embassy or consulate. Knowing which type you applied for will help you identify the correct verification method. Check the source of issue If your visa was issued directly by an Azerbaijani embassy or consulate—meaning you submitted your passport there yourself and received it back with the visa inside—it is highly likely to be authentic. If you have used a third-party visa service, the risk is greater when you use an unfamiliar/unknown agency and you cannot confirm positive experiences from other travelers who have used this particular agency. In this situation you should recheck the authenticity of your visa prior to traveling. How to verify an e-visa If you applied for an ASAN e-visa, you can verify its authenticity on the official Azerbaijan government website: Visit the official ASAN Visa verification page (evisa.gov.az/en/check-status). Enter your application number, passport number, and date of birth. The system will confirm whether your visa is valid, along with its issue and expiry dates. If the system does not recognize your details, your e-visa may be fake or there may have been an application error. How to verify a sticker visa For a sticker visa: Check for security features such as microprinting, holograms, and watermarks. Verify that the visa includes: Your correct full name and passport number. Visa type, validity dates, and number of entries. The official stamp and signature from the issuing embassy or consulate. If in doubt, contact the Azerbaijani embassy or consulate that issued the visa. They can confirm whether your visa number is in their system. Warning signs of a fake visa Be cautious if: The visa contains misspellings or poor-quality printing. There is some personal information which is wrong or mismatched. The email came from an unofficial-looking address and it did not look like an official email. On the internet, the organization issuing it is unverifiable. Best practices to avoid fake visas Always apply through an Azerbaijani embassy or consulate or the official government portal. The ASAN e-visa is usually processed within 3 working days, and the fee must be paid online through the official system only — never via personal bank accounts. Avoid informal channels or unverified agencies. It is also necessary to avoid unknown visa agencies and avoid agencies that cannot provide verifiable references Retain all the receipts of applications and confirmation mails and payment documents. Final thoughts In case you got your Azerbaijan visa at the embassy, the consulate, or the official ASAN e-visa portal, you are sure of legitimate documents. In case you have used a third-party service that you do not really know, then take some time to check on your visa online or by calling the authority issuing it. Only a couple minutes of checking is what can help you avoid major inconveniences during travelling.

Types of visas for language training in Azerbaijan For a six-month language training course, you will need either a student visa or a long-term visit visa. The particular kind of visa will be dependent on your situation and the regulations which are on the books at the time of your application. A brief summary of the two alternatives is presented here: Student visa: This is the most typical of visas to a student who does a course at an academic instruction, such as language courses. The student visa is typically issued based on the duration of your course or study program. Long-term visit visa: You can apply for a long-term visit visa if you intend to study language as part of a broader program or if your purpose of stay is different. Nevertheless, not everybody might find such a possibility as your nationality and the type of the language course might matter. The Azerbaijan visa application process The process of applying for a visa to Azerbaijan for a six-month language training program involves several steps. Here’s a breakdown of the procedure: Choose the correct visa type The first step is to determine whether you need a student visa or a long-term visit visa. For long-term study (including language courses), you’ll initially enter Azerbaijan with a study-purpose entry visa, then apply for a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) through the State Migration Service within the country. The visa alone does not grant six months of stay without the TRP. Gather required documents The documents required for applying for a language training visa to Azerbaijan include: Passport: Your passport must also have a validity period of more than 6 months, after your planned stay. The form of visa application: You are required to complete the Azerbaijan visa form correctly. Passport photos: In most cases, you will be required to have two recent passport size photos. Enrollment letter: An invitation, a letter by a language school or educational establishment in Azerbaijan, and etc. Evidence of financial resources: Evidence of having the financial resources likely to keep you in the country or the means to support yourself during your stay, i.e. bank statements, evidence of scholarship, or sponsorship. Health insurance: Evidence of medical insurance that will cover your stay in Azerbaijan. Visa fee: Paid to obtain the visa processing fee. Your language school in Azerbaijan must be officially registered and authorized to accept foreign students. They will issue an invitation letter, which is a key requirement for both your visa and TRP application. Submit your application Either online or at an Azerbaijan embassy or consulate in your home country, you can seek an Azerbaijan visa. In most cases, the application should be submitted to the Azerbaijan Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the nearest Azerbaijani consulate. When done online using the ASAN Visa system, the process might take less time, but the applicants do not all qualify to complete an e-visa application, particularly when the student is pursuing a long-term study. Processing time The processing time for an Azerbaijan visa for language training usually depends on the method of application and the embassy or consulate handling your case. The general expectation is as follows: Through online application (e-Visa): The Azerbaijan e-Visa is strictly limited to short-term purposes (tourism, business, or medical) and is valid for a maximum of 30 days. It cannot be used or converted for long-term study. Therefore, for a six-month language training program, applicants must directly apply for a student visa at the Azerbaijan Embassy or Consulate. Standard visa application (Embassy/Consulate): The processing time typically takes 14–20 business days, and in some cases may extend up to 40 days depending on your nationality, the workload of the consulate, and the additional requirement of applying for a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) once in Azerbaijan. Rush processing: Some embassies may offer expedited processing services for an additional fee. In the case that you want your visa fast enough, you should ask whether the urgent processing is available. Visa approval After processing your application, your Azerbaijan visa will be ready and this will be a sticker visa or electronic visa (in case you made your application online). This will enable you to go to Azerbaijan to join your language training program and stay there for up to six months. The initial visa granted for study purposes usually functions as a single-entry visa that allows you to enter Azerbaijan. Within this period, you are required to apply for a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) at the State Migration Service, which is the legal document that authorizes you to remain in Azerbaijan for the entire six-month duration of your language course. Tips for faster visa processing Processing times may vary, but here are a few tips to help ensure your visa application is processed efficiently and without delay: Submit on time: Your Azerbaijan Visa application should be done early enough to avoid the last minute hustle and bustle. It is best to apply at least 3 to 4 weeks before you want to depart. Be well documented: Do cross check and make sure you have all the necessary documents in place before you can proceed with your application. One of the most widespread types of delays is linked to the lacking documentation. Call the embassy/consulate: In the event that you have some inquiries on how to go about the process or you need some clarification on any aspect of it, you can call the Azerbaijan embassy or consulate in your country. Conclusion The Azerbaijan visa application process is relatively straightforward, but it’s important to follow all the steps carefully and allow enough time for the process to be completed correctly. Depending on the embassy’s workload and the requirement to apply for a Temporary Residence Permit after arrival, the overall process can extend to several weeks. Applicants are advised to start the visa procedure at least one to two months before their intended departure. You should be sure to collect everything needed to make the application and you should apply early enough to prevent the delays. As you know more about the requirements and learn how to solve the steps presented in this guide, you will be able to expect a successful process of making an application and enjoy your time when studying a new language in Azerbaijan.

What is a TRC (Temporary Residence Card)? The Temporary Residence Card (TRC) that is issued by the State Migration Service of Azerbaijan allows the foreign citizens to reside in the country within a certain predetermined time frame. Majority of visitors to Azerbaijan come on a short term tourist visa though in a case where a greater term interest (technical) or (incorporation) or (residency) in Azerbaijan is available then one will need a TRC. You cannot apply for a TRC merely to prolong a tourist visit. However, if you obtain a new legal ground (such as an employment contract, university admission, or family basis) while on a visit visa, you may apply for a TRC before your visa expires. You must have a valid legal ground such as employment, education, family reunification, business activity, or investment (e.g., real estate purchase of at least 100,000 AZN, bank deposit of 100,000 AZN, or investment of 500,000 AZN in the economy). Who is eligible to apply for TRC on a visit visa? Not every holder of a visit visa is eligible to apply for a TRC. As a rule, the TRC is possible to apply in Azerbaijan as a foreigner is conducting business, studies, and family reunification, however, there is a set of conditions to be met: You need to possess a genuine visit visa. You have to have a reason why you stay longer than the usual visitor visa period. You need to show that you have enough money or a justification to extend your stay like work, school, or family relationship. It is important to note that TRCs are generally not issued for tourism purposes. You must demonstrate that your stay in Azerbaijan is for a purpose other than tourism, such as work, study, or family reasons. In most cases, a local sponsor or host in Azerbaijan (such as an employer, university, or family member) is required to support your TRC application, depending on the purpose of your stay. Steps to get a TRC during your visit visa in Azerbaijan Before applying for a TRC, foreigners must register their address of stay with the State Migration Service within 15 days of arrival if staying more than 15 days. This is a legal requirement for further residence procedures. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you apply for a TRC during your visit visa: Step 1: Apply for the TRC at the State Migration Service You are allowed to initiate the process by visiting the State Migration Service of Azerbaijan or submit one via the online application system, in case such a system is available in your home country. Make sure you go to the right office or the right place on the Internet where they provide the residency services to foreigners. Step 2: Gather required documents To apply for a TRC, you will need to provide several documents, including: A passport which has been validly issued and which also has been stamped with your visit visa. A filled out Temporary Residence Card application. Photographs (usually passport-sized). Documentation of the intent of your visit (e.g. a work contract, a student enrolment or a familial invitation). Cancellation of financial resources (bank statements, employment letter, etc.) A medical cover to cover you in Azerbaijan. Evidence of housing in Azerbaijan (receipt of lodging, lease contract, and so forth). It’s important to verify the specific document requirements with the State Migration Service as they may change. Step 3: Submit your application As soon as you are ready with your documents, go to the State Migration Service and apply there. Applicants, who are applying online, need to read the instructions on the site and send scanned copies of the documents. Step 4: Pay the application fee The TRC application has a state fee, which varies depending on the validity period and processing time. For example, fees generally range between 60 and 360 AZN. Ensure that you personally make the necessary payment using the set method either at the State Migration Service or through the assistance of an online payment system. Step 5: Wait for processing The processing time can vary, but it usually takes several weeks to receive a decision regarding your TRC application. The processing times may vary, although it usually takes a number of weeks to get a decision regarding your TRC application. It is possible that the State Migration Service will demand some other documents or explanation at this period. Step 6: Receive your tRC The moment your application is accepted, you are given a Temporary Residence Card according to which you can reside in Azerbaijan legally during your whole stay within the time frame written on the card. It is a card that you need to carry around when you are in the country. Important considerations TRC length: The TRC is initially issued for up to 1 year. It can be renewed for up to 2 years at a time if the legal ground for residence remains valid. It can be renewed if necessary. It is renewable in case of need. TRC for family members: If you are applying for a TRC for family members accompanying you, you will need to provide additional documentation proving your relationship, such as marriage or birth certificates. Overstaying the visa: If you overstay your visit visa without applying for a TRC or visa extension, you may face penalties, fines, or deportation. If your TRC application is submitted after your visa expires or is rejected, you may be subject to fines, deportation, or an entry ban. Always apply early and keep track of your visa validity. Conclusion You can be issued a Temporary Residence Card (TRC), both in Azerbaijan (with a valid visit visa), where there are certain prerequisites and the required papers must be prepared. In case of you staying in Azerbaijan long term due to such reasons as work or study, the legal way is to obtain a TRC. It is important to initiate your application process before your visit visa is due to expire and ensure you meet all the requirements so that you do not have any problem when you are there. Visit the State Migration Service to make sure you have the latest information regarding the procedure of application and requirements.

Preparing to visit Baku, Azerbaijan, and wondering if Baku offers anything resembling the festive atmosphere of Rio de Janeiro or Venice during carnival season? Though Baku does not have the carnival in the traditional meaning of this word, there is a great number of colored festivals and cultural events which make the city streets sound and be full of the music, dancing and local traditions. This is what you should know about the festive celebrations in Baku. No classical carnival—But plenty of festivity Baku lacks a carnival, in the traditional meaning of massive parades, costumes and floats that one can find in Brazil or in Europe. Nevertheless, the city has several spectacular festivals and other mass events along the year which contribute to a carnival-like vibe, including a large audience, entertainment, and parties in the streets. Novruz Bayram: The spirit of spring Among Baku’s most cherished festivities is Novruz Bayram, the Persian New Year celebration that marks the arrival of spring. When: Celebrated in March, typically around the 20th-21st. Duration: Festivities can last several days. What happens: The city becomes vibrant with: Folk music and dance performances. Street markets selling traditional sweets like pakhlava and shekerbura. Public demonstrations of crafts and cultural arts. Bonfire jumping rituals, symbolizing purification and the welcoming of a fresh start. Novruz is the time when everyone visits the central squares and Baku becomes a noisy and colored setting with tradition. While Novruz Bayram is not a carnival in the traditional sense—with parades or costumes—it brings a festive street atmosphere, where music, dancing, and public gatherings create an energy comparable to carnival celebrations in spirit. Flower festivals and state holidays While Baku may not host a classical carnival, the city celebrates numerous other vibrant festivals, including: Baku Flower Festival When: Usually held in late May, but not organized annually. Highlights: Streets and parks adorned with elaborate floral displays. Artistic flower installations. Public art exhibits and photo opportunities. Note: The festival has taken place in select years and is announced by the Azerbaijan Tourism Board depending on national scheduling. Public Celebrations and National Events Although Baku does not have an official City Day, the capital regularly hosts large-scale public celebrations on national holidays (such as Republic Day on May 28) or international events like the Formula 1 Grand Prix. A carnival in spirit, if not in name In Baku, Azerbaijan, therefore, is there a carnival? So, does Baku have a carnival? Not in the traditional form, but the city is full of vibrant cultural festivals and seasonal celebrations that bring people together with music, food, and a shared spirit of festivity. You can go to see it in Novruz Bayram, the Baku Flower Festival, or on a big state holiday, but you will not be short of color, music, and fun gatherings. Baku has its own celebrational calendar, and people who want to get a taste of local traditions have plenty of chances to indulge in the special atmosphere of Azerbaijan culture and hospitality.

So why not go shopping when you are in Baku, Azerbaijan? Along with the elegant design, delicious food, and night life, Baku is also known for hosting the official Baku Shopping Festival, a major retail event that draws both locals and tourists. And the thing is that, in case you are very eager to obtain great offers and to experience the ambiance of shopping in the city, you need to be informed about shopping festivals which are the most popular in Baku. Baku shopping festival: The star event Baku Shopping Festival is definitely the largest and most favorite shop fest in Azerbaijan. Although typically held in spring and autumn, the exact dates of the Baku Shopping Festival vary each year and are announced by the Azerbaijan Tourism Board. Most stores, shopping malls, boutiques in the city give substantial discounts on clothes, electronics, accessories, home products and others during the festival. The visitors also get a great opportunity to get quality products at reasonable prices. The Value added tax (VAT) refund program is one of the adverts of the Baku Shopping Festival. The VAT refund applies only to foreign non-resident tourists who make qualifying purchases at officially participating stores displaying the ‘Tax Free’ logo. Refunds are processed at the airport upon departure, subject to minimum spend limits and proper documentation. What to expect at the Baku shopping festival Big markdowns: Both international brands and local designers offer discounts up to 70 percent of their original prices, so a lot of the retailers are involved. Entertainment activities: Besides the shopping, there are also live concerts, fashion shows and cultural entertainment that often take place at the festival to provide a vibrant environment to the major shopping places such as the Fountain Square and Nizami Street. Local handicrafts: Most of the sellers display locally made items, such as carpets, jewelry, ceramics and traditional textiles, which is an ideal opportunity to get interesting souvenirs to take home. Other popular festivals with shopping opportunities Although the Baku Shopping Festival is the city’s primary shopping-focused event, other cultural festivals in Baku also offer great shopping experiences: Baku Jazz Festival Although a music festival in essence, the Baku Jazz Festival, an annual autumn festival, usually incorporates markets and artisan stalls selling craftwork, musical memorabilia and local goods. It is a good moment when visitors can enjoy entertainment with opportunities to go shopping, somewhere unusual. Gabala International Music Festival Although the Gabala International Music Festival takes place in Gabala—not Baku—it complements music performances with craft and souvenir stalls, offering a different kind of shopping experience during cultural travel. Tips for shopping in Baku Language: Many shop staff may speak limited English, so learning a few words of Azerbaijani or Russian can be helpful. Late sunsets: In summer, daylight can last until 9 PM, perfect for evening shopping strolls. Safety: Baku is generally safe, even late at night, making it comfortable for tourists to explore shopping areas after dark. Conclusion Therefore, which are the best shopping festivals in Baku, Azerbaijan? There is no doubt that the Baku Shopping Festival stands out for its major discounts, tax-free shopping for tourists, and a festive atmosphere that turns the city into a vibrant retail hub. Nevertheless, do not miss out on cultural events such as the Baku Jazz Festival and other music festivities which also feature markets and traditional craftworks. In search of elite products or exotic trinkets, Baku is a city that offers you an exciting shopping paradise that should not be overlooked.