FAQs

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.

Baku, the vibrant capital of Azerbaijan, offers a wide range of shopping experiences — from luxury malls with international brands to traditional bazaars full of bargains. Where to shop in Baku? In case you feel like looking at the best and the cheapest shopping locations in Baku or get the best offers in shopping, this is where you can get the best shopping offers without having to cut corners. Binə Ticarət Mərkəzi (Bina Trade Center) As far as affordable shopping in Baku is concerned, Binə Ticarət Mərkəzi is regarded as the best place for affordable shopping. It is an expansive market that is a little out of the capital city and has been famed to offer huge varieties of products at very low prices. You will see apparel, footwear, household products, textile, and electronics among others. Locals flock to it especially to do wholesale shopping or to make bulk purchases. Although the market can be extremely crowded and chaotic, it is where one will be able to go and find buyers looking out to bag a good deal even at the expense of some mania. Taza Bazaar Taza Bazaar is a place to be when you are on the hunt for fresh produce, spices, nuts, dried fruits and traditional Azerbaijani products. The prices are low in comparison with the supermarkets and the air allows you to feel the local culture directly. There is no need to be afraid to bargain because this is a part of the experience. Sahil park and fountain square Around Fountain Square and Sahil Metro Station, you’ll find side-street vendors and small shops selling affordable souvenirs, scarves, crafts, and clothes. Venture beyond the main streets for better prices. Although it is a very tourist friendly place, affordable products can be found as well, probably even more so, going down side streets rather than being in the main pedestrian streets. Ganjlik Mall While Ganjlik Mall offers a clean, air-conditioned shopping experience, prices are generally higher than traditional markets. However, seasonal sales can make it worth visiting for mid-range bargains. While Ganjlik Mall sometimes offers discounts, prices there are generally higher than in bazaars like Binə Ticarət Mərkəzi. Nizami Street Nizami Street, the street of fancy boutiques, has fewer local stores as well where you will find low-priced clothes and accessories. Don`t look at such famous brands and you will find good deals, particularly when it comes to the local brands. Local neighborhood markets In addition to the more famous bazaars there are smaller neighborhood markets throughout Baku where inexpensive clothing, household goods and accessories may be found. Locals enjoy shopping in these markets and the prices are usually low compared to large shopping centers. Online shopping Lastly, internet resources such as AliExpress or domestic Azerbaijani online stores offer cheaper options, particularly, in categories of clothing, accessories and small electronics. Pro tip: at the Baku markets and small stores, it is customary to bargain. Do not hesitate to bargain the price. It is a part of the culture in the local markets. Whether you're a fan of traditional markets or prefer modern malls, Baku offers plenty of affordable shopping options. With a bit of bargaining and exploration, you're sure to find excellent deals all across the city.

Yes, there are Sunni mosques in Baku, Azerbaijan. Although Azerbaijan is predominantly Shia Muslim, Azerbaijanis are known for their acceptance of religious diversity and stability and there are a number of Sunni mosques in the country that both Sunni and Shia Muslims attend as a group especially during the Friday prayers. Such coexistence itself demonstrates the particular religious environment of Azerbaijan where sectarian conflicts are insignificant, and society tends to exist in peace despite the religious background. Key Sunni mosques in Baku Here are some known Sunni mosques in Baku: Taza Pir Mosque: This is one of the most prominent mosques in Baku, known for its historical and architectural significance. It is attended by both Shia and Sunni worshippers, especially during communal prayers. Ilahiyyet Mosque: This mosque is located near the Faculty of Theology (Ilahiyyat) at Baku State University. While not officially designated as a Sunni mosque, it is used by students and locals of different backgrounds for daily and Friday prayers. Razin Mescidi: The Sunni can also pray in this mosque and the locals refer to the mosque as a fully fledged prayer place where the Sunnis can meet and pray. Note: Smaller mosques like Razin Mescidi have sometimes faced regulatory changes, but it remains an active prayer space for local Sunnis. These regulations are part of broader state oversight on religious activity to ensure stability and prevent extremism. It is worth mentioning that although these mosques belong to the Sunni community, Sunnis and Shias in Azerbaijan pray together and visit the same mosque and particularly during the communal prayer. The environment in these mosques is friendly and accepting, you will barely find division among visitors with the sectarian differences. Religious harmony in Azerbaijan Although Azerbaijan has diversity in religion, the country experiences a level of religious tolerance at a high level. There is a history of secular government in the country with the first secular Turkic and Islamic republic founded in 1918. Religious restrictions under Soviet control were very strict, however, with the collapse of the Soviet Union, the religious identity saw an upturn in Azerbaijan. Approximately 65–75% of Muslims in Azerbaijan are Shia (Twelver), while around 20–30% follow Sunni Islam, mostly of the Hanafi school. An observable growth of people observing Sunni tradition has occurred in the last few years and this has been a sign of the progressive change in the religious understanding of the people in the country too. A diverse religious landscape Baku is a powerful center of attraction in Azerbaijan mainly because of the cultural and religious background of the state. Although there are specific Sunni mosques in the city, many mosques are shared spaces where both Sunni and Shia Muslims pray side by side and this portrays the Azerbaijan spirit of coexistence in religion. Therefore, if you are in Baku and looking for Sunni mosques, you will find several options available. And even across the boundaries of sects, you will find a warm and inclusive religious community where all worshipers will feel welcome.

If you’re planning to come to Azerbaijan for training, you might be wondering: Can I work in Azerbaijan while holding a training visa? It is a critical question particularly to students, interns or those professionals who are seeking to acquire experience and perhaps earn a living as they stay there. The simple answer is no — a training visa holder generally cannot be employed in Azerbaijan outside the activities connected with his or her training. So, why is that a case and what are some other options you could think of? What is a training visa in Azerbaijan? A training visa is a type of visa issued to foreigners who wish to: Visit vocational training. Undertake some internships. Participate in either educational or skill-building programs. It is a kind of a visa that is usually sponsored by an educational institution, a company, or organization under which a training program is given. It permits the visa holder to have a temporary residency in Azerbaijan for a fixed period, usually matching the duration of the training program. Work restrictions on a training visa The key point to remember is that a training visa: Does not authorize employment outside of the training program. Limits the visa holder’s activities to the specific purpose stated in the visa application—in this case, training. If you’re holding a training visa: You cannot take up paid employment with an Azerbaijani company unrelated to your training. You cannot engage in freelance work or run your own business in Azerbaijan. Violating these rules can result in: Fines. Visa cancellation. Deportation. Possible bans on future entry into Azerbaijan. When can you work legally in Azerbaijan? To work legally in Azerbaijan, you generally need: A work visa and work permit: If you plan to work for an Azerbaijani employer, you must secure a job offer first. The employer sponsors your work permit and applies for your visa through the State Migration Service. A residence permit linked to employment: Once you arrive, your visa is converted into a temporary residence permit tied to your job. These legal steps ensure that foreigners work under proper authorization and that employers comply with labor laws. Are there any exceptions? In Azerbaijan, you can only work as part of your training program (such as an internship) and only with the sponsoring institution or company. For example: A student at the university on a training visa may undertake the monitored internship with an affiliate organization. Nevertheless, they are also not allowed to engage in working elsewhere or in other non-related companies. If your training visa includes practical work, check the exact terms and conditions stated on your visa approval letter or consult the State Migration Service of Azerbaijan. What should you do if you want to work? If you’re in Azerbaijan on a training visa but want to work: Discuss with your training sponsor what your options are. In case you find a job, consider the work visa. Check with the State Migration Service or a lawyer and know your rights and how to ensure that you do not get into trouble. Conclusion A training visa holder is not allowed to work in Azerbaijan beyond the scope of training activities he/she is supposed to accomplish. It is against the laws of the land to work without the right visa and permit with a serious backlash in the event this is done. If you plan to work in Azerbaijan, you must have the proper work visa and permit to comply with the country’s immigration laws.

It is a country that is becoming more promising to individuals who would like to invest in the agriculture sector or consider working on their farms. However, prior to packing your luggage, it is essential to have some idea about the type of visa you require in case you are intending to relocate to Azerbaijan and work in your farm. This should depend on the kind of stay you are going to have and also the activities you wish to do. So what is that exactly? Can I use a tourist visa to work on my farm in Azerbaijan? No. Even when you want to work, including working in your own farm, under a tourist visa, you cannot. The well-liked Azerbaijan e-Visa (ASAN Visa) is valid only within 30 days, and its sole purpose is tourism or some business meetings. It does not permit you to do any business or work operations including the farming work. The breach of a visa condition may lead to fines or deportation as well as various bans on the granting of a future visa. Temporary residence permit – The right choice for farming In case you plan to go to Azerbaijan and work on your farm, you will probably require a document called Temporary Residence Permit (TRP). Here’s why: A TRP will enable you to stay in Azerbaijan long-term, typically for one year, and it can be renewed annually. It gives you the option to venture into businesses like running a business or even working on your own farm. To legally operate your own farm, you must register a business entity or sole proprietorship in Azerbaijan and comply with relevant licensing and tax regulations, in addition to holding a TRP. The permit is normally granted on the basis of one year which can be renewed after one year or annual basis. How to qualify for a temporary residence permit To be eligible for a Temporary Residence Permit as someone planning to work on a farm, you will typically need to show: Proof of purpose: Evidence that you own or rent agricultural property in Azerbaijan. Business plans or documentations of intended farming activities. Evidence of funds or income: You are required to prove you have enough means to sustain yourself in the country of Azerbaijan. Valid passport and clean record: your passport should be valid and there should not be any legal record that can prevent you from staying in Azerbaijan. Application process for a temporary residence permit The State Migration Service of the Republic of Azerbaijan handles all residence permits. The steps generally include: Gather required documents (e.g., property ownership, lease agreements, financial proof, health insurance). Complete the application forms provided by the State Migration Service. Submit your documents either online (in some cases) or directly at the Migration Service offices in Azerbaijan. Pay the relevant fees. Attend an interview if required. Processing times vary but typically take 20-30 working days. Other visa options If you plan to work for someone else’s farm (i.e., as an employee), you would need: A work permit obtained through your employer. A related residence permit once your work permit is approved. In all cases, working in Azerbaijan without proper authorization is illegal. Conclusion In the case you are and intend to live in Azerbaijan and conduct your own farm work the Temporary Residence Permit is the type of visa that can be applied. Working or participating in any business activity such as farming using the e-Visa or the tourist Visa is not possible. Coming to know the accurate requirements of visas also gives a transition to Azerbaijan with legal conformity in the start of your agricultural business.

The question that many international students that intend to study in Azerbaijan have is whether an Azerbaijan student visa is one that permits part time labor. It is a very crucial question as it is possible to avoid some financial pain and even get experience and fit in the local society through working in the course of studying. Yet, working on a student visa in Azerbaijan has rather strict and limited regulations. So into the facts we go, what is allowed, not allowed and how students can work the situation. Understanding the Azerbaijan student visa A student visa in Azerbaijan is a residence permit granted to foreigners who are enrolled in educational institutions such as: Universities and colleges Language schools Technical or vocational institutions This visa allows students to live legally in Azerbaijan during their course of study. It’s typically valid for the duration of the program, subject to renewal if needed. Can you work part-time on a student visa in Azerbaijan? In general, no — a standard Azerbaijan student visa does not automatically allow part-time work. Under current laws: The students who live in Azerbaijan of foreign nationalities, do not necessarily get a green light to work just because they have a student visa. The foreign nationals, with students among them, need to have a work permit issued by the State Migration Service of Azerbaijan to be able to work legally. Rules about foreigners working in Azerbaijan Here’s how the system works for foreigners, including students: A foreigner who wants to work in Azerbaijan must have a valid work permit. Employers must apply for the work permit on behalf of the foreign employee. The work permit specifies: Employer details Job title and duties Duration of employment This means a student cannot independently decide to take a part-time job without employer sponsorship and proper authorization. Are there any exceptions? While the laws are strict, there are limited exceptions: Internships or Practical Training: There exist universities that offer internships as a part of a study. When the internship is academic and unpaid, then it may be authorized without a working permit. This should however be done with your university and confirmed with the migration authorities. Short term Projects: Once in a while, there are short term projects of a cultural-educational nature organized by universities and sometimes there are small stipends involved. Again, these are subject to approval and cannot be termed as general employment. Consequences of working illegally Working without a valid work permit in Azerbaijan can have serious consequences: Fines imposed on both the employee and employer Possible deportation or ban from re-entering the country Revocation of your student residence permit Therefore, it’s crucial not to engage in part-time work “under the table” without proper documentation. Alternative financial support options Since working part-time is largely restricted, students in Azerbaijan often rely on: There are Azerbaijani universities that offer scholarship or the government does it Family financial help Home country savings Affordable living since the cost of living in Azerbaijan may be cheaper than in the west. Cost of living for students in Azerbaijan While you might not be able to work part-time, Azerbaijan is considered relatively affordable for students: Housing: A shared apartment or a university dormitory may prove to be affordable. Food: You can eat cheaply in local food markets and small restaurants. Transport: There is cheap and effective transport. Recreation: Museums, cultural activities and parks are relatively cheap or even free. This can make it manageable for many students to live comfortably without the need for part-time employment. Advice for prospective students If you’re planning to study in Azerbaijan: University career advice: Ask your university as some universities can provide advice on internships or legal means of work experience. Check the State Migration Service: As further employment rules are always checked Be a good budgeter: Prepare a financial plan, as you are not sure that you can work part-time. Final answer Can a part-time job be conducted using an Azerbaijan student visa? I am afraid not, there is no automatic work permitting versa. Any student who wants to work legally should apply and get a work permit. It is important to read laws and prevent illegal employment which may endanger your stay in the country. To conclude, the experience of studying in Azerbaijan presents cultural enrichment and academic benefits, yet students, to pursue it, should carefully plan their budgeting since they cannot get a job on a part-time basis under the current laws.

The question arising in the mind of many tourists is: With an Azerbaijan visa, which places (countries) can I visit for free? It is a great query since possessing a visa of a select country can at times be advantageous to the visit of others. Although, it is important to understand what one can do with an Azerbaijan visa. The brief reply is: Having an Azerbaijan visa does not mean that you can enjoy visa-free entry into other countries. A visa issued to Azerbaijan, unlike those issued to areas such as Schengen Area, is specific to Azerbaijan only and it is not a multi-country visa. Now, let us turn this into detail. Understanding the Azerbaijan Visa Azerbaijan offers several types of visas: e-Visa (ASAN visa): Available for citizens of around 95 countries for stays up to 30 days. Tourist visas: For leisure or visiting family/friends. Business visas: For professional visits. Multiple-Entry visas: For frequent travelers. Regardless of the type, these visas only permit entry into Azerbaijan itself. They do not automatically serve as entry documents for neighboring countries or other regions. Neighboring Countries and Regional Travel Georgia Georgia is one of the most popular neighboring destinations for travelers in Azerbaijan. However, a visa for Azerbaijan does not allow you to enter Georgia visa-free. Instead, your entry to Georgia depends on your nationality. The citizens of the EU, the UK, the US, and many citizens of the CIS, as well as other countries, can also visit Georgia without a visa within a period of 1 year. In case your nation needs a visa to travel to Georgia, you do not get an exemption by the possession of an Azerbaijan visa. Armenia Today the Armenian-Azerbaijani border is closed, because of the long-lasting conflict. An Azerbaijan visa would not give you a visa-free entry into Armenia even in case it was open. According to your nationality, you would have to apply to have a separate Armenian visa. Russia Russia shares a border with Azerbaijan, but a visa is required for most travelers. An Azerbaijan visa does not grant visa-free entry into Russia. Iran Azerbaijan and Iran are both visited by many travelers since they are close to each other. An Azerbaijan visa cannot however be used to enter Iran. It will require you to apply individually for an Iranian visa, but the citizens of some countries can acquire a visa on arrival. Exceptions: Regional movement for CIS citizens In case you are a citizen of some of the CIS countries (such as Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan), you may have an easier way of movement across the borders in the region because of bilateral agreements. However, even being a citizen of CIS, the Azerbaijan visa does not substitute any other needed visas to the rest of the world. Rather it is your nationality that will give you access. Other visa advantages? Your Azerbaijan visa does not grant entry into any other country but with an Azerbaijan visa, the travel history created can aid the applicant in a positive way in subsequent visa applications. Consulates occasionally regard past travel outside the country as an indication of a competent traveler. But there is no country where the visa-free entry can be granted to you officially only due to the fact that you have got a visa to Azerbaijan. Visa-free countries for Azerbaijani passport holders A related question people ask is: “Where can Azerbaijani citizens travel visa-free?” As of 2025, the Azerbaijani passport grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to about 70 countries, including: Turkey Georgia Ukraine Iran (visa on arrival) Russia Indonesia Malaysia Several Caribbean and Pacific islands But remember: this is for Azerbaijani citizens, not for foreigners holding an Azerbaijan visa. Final answer The only bad news is that there can be no other countries where you can visit without a visa, just by having an Azerbaijan one. The rights to which you continue your travel solely rest on: Your nationality The destination country Visa policies Bilateral agreements In case you travel across countries around Azerbaijan, it is always good to check the visa requirements to the specific countries to rule out any unexpected facts at the border.

Most of the foreigners who have entered Azerbaijan under a tourist visa are left with the question of whether they can change their tourist visa to an employee visa in case they find employment. The simple answer is: No, and it’s not easy. The Azerbaijani immigration law does not allow a tourist visa to be immediately converted to a worker visa on the territory of Azerbaijan. Legal framework: No on-the-spot conversion In Azerbaijan, tourist visas explicitly cannot be used to work: You can either have a tourist visa or a work-based visa; however, you can not have both of them simultaneously. Employee visas/work permits must be formal and are sponsored, but you cannot begin working until your permit is approved Switching visas within Azerbaijan is prohibited by legislation and may lead to refusal of status, punishment, or deportation. Proper procedure for employment Job offer first: Secure a formal job offer from an Azerbaijani employer who is legally registered. Employer sponsorship: The employer must submit documents to the State Migration Service, including: An official letter explaining why the role requires a foreign expert. Your notarized educational and professional certificates. Passport copy, photos, and employment contract. Work permit application: Once approved, a work permit and temporary residence permit are issued (usually valid for one year, renewable). Although the official processing time is 20–30 working days, in practice it can take one to two months depending on document completeness and government quotas. Travel on correct visa You must enter Azerbaijan holding a work visa stamped by an embassy or consulate. Start working only after both the work permit and resident permit are active. Work permits involve significant government fees, usually around 1,000–1,500 AZN per year or more, depending on the sector. Some industries in Azerbaijan are also subject to quotas for foreign workers, so always confirm with your employer whether they can secure a permit for your specific role. Why conversion isn’t possible from within The tourist visa does not include work permission- holders of work permits are the only ones who are allowed to work. Business visas allow for meetings and short-term business activities but do not permit full-time employment or earning a salary. Many people mistakenly think a business visa is the same as a work visa, which is incorrect. On-site conversion is illegal since the employers are required to apply before being hired. Entering the country and attempting to switch visas will not be accepted by immigration authorities. Even when traveling with an employment opportunity, you are forced to leave the country and enter with the required papers. What actually happens in practice Scenario Reality Tourist applies for work on-site Impossible - legal and immigration processes don’t allow this Employer initiates from inside Azerbaijan Needs legal presence and correct visa; tourist status not enough Employee permit granted You need to leave and re-enter on a work visa to activate your permit. In rare cases, you may remain in Azerbaijan while your employer processes the work permit application, provided your tourist visa remains valid. However, you must leave the country once the permit is approved and return with an official work visa. The “Ring fence” principle in practice Think of immigration law as a ‘ring-fence’ system - only the correct visa lets you in. Immigration law functions like a filter: you must pass through the entry visa stage with proper intent (employment). Tourist visas are a dead end for employment - even if offers appear while in Azerbaijan. Employers will not forward your work permit application unless you plan to enter correctly with an employment visa. When it can work more smoothly Highly skilled professionals with in-demand qualifications may get faster work-permit processing, but still need correct visa entry. Some employers assist with processing before your arrival - this is the only straightforward route. Remote job negotiations may allow you to plan travel and visa accordingly. Risks of illegal work Working on a tourist visa - even for just a few days - is considered illegal employment. Consequences include fines, deportation, or being barred from re-entering Azerbaijan. Even casual or remote working without authorization is risky and not advised. What you should do Find a job or receive a job offer before traveling. Ask your employer to initiate the work permit and visa process. Enter Azerbaijan on a work visa, properly stamped in your passport. Start working only after receiving both your work permit and residence permit. Final thoughts Converting a tourist visa into an employee visa inside Azerbaijan is not allowed or practical. The law requires employer-led sponsorship and pre-approved documentation. If you’re serious about working in the country: Line up a job or employer first, Complete official applications before entry, Enter on a proper work visa, Begin work only after permits are active. Following the legal process ensures a trouble-free start to your career in Azerbaijan. Attempting shortcuts could jeopardize your ability to live and work in the country. Unlike some countries, Azerbaijan does not support visa runs. Changing your visa status requires proper applications and an entry visa specifically for employment purposes. Simply exiting to a neighboring country and returning on a tourist visa does not solve the issue.

As a foreigner that has already been issued with a work permit by the government of Azerbaijan or is looking forward to beginning working in the country you may be having such question in mind: When will Azerbaijan allow customer entry into the country in respect to work permit? The immediate response to this question can be called as follows- Azerbaijan now permits the entry of those individuals who have received valid work permits; nevertheless, the case remains subject to a number of conditions and procedures. That is what you should know in detail, present entry rules, the documentation required, as well as tips to travel easily. Current status of Azerbaijan's borders for work permit holders By 2024, the borders of Azerbaijan will not be closed to the entrants with their valid work visas and residence permits who understand the entry requirements to Azerbaijan imposed by the government. There are currently no COVID-19 entry restrictions affecting travel to Azerbaijan. You are however, only permitted to enter when your work visa and permit have been approved. Even after your work permit is issued, you must apply for an entry visa specifically for employment purposes before traveling to Azerbaijan. A tourist visa cannot simply be used for this purpose. Azerbaijan is not the country where you can enter in quest to find a job or on arrival seek a permit to work. It is necessary that the permit needs to be issued before travel, which is facilitated by an employer in Azerbaijan. Who can enter Azerbaijan with a work permit? You are eligible for entry if: You hold a valid work visa issued by the Azerbaijani embassy or consulate. You have an officially issued work permit and temporary residence permit. You can provide proof of employment and meet border entry requirements (e.g., passport validity, return ticket if needed). Keep in mind that travelers without these documents may be denied boarding or entry at the border. Entry requirements for work permit holders To successfully enter Azerbaijan as a work permit holder, prepare the following: Valid passport (with at least 6 months’ validity from date of entry) Work visa sticker (obtained from an Azerbaijani embassy/consulate) Work permit approval letter or certificate Employment contract or invitation letter from the employer Temporary residence card (if already issued) Upon arrival, immigration officers may ask for confirmation of your job role and company. Always carry digital and hard copies of all relevant documents. Work permits in Azerbaijan involve significant fees, usually around 1,000–1,500 AZN per year or higher in some sectors. These costs are often covered by employers, but you should confirm this in your employment agreement. How to stay updated on entry status Immigration and border regulations can occasionally change due to regional or global developments. To stay informed: Visit the State Migration Service of Azerbaijan website Check with the Azerbaijani Embassy or Consulate in your home country Ask your employer in Azerbaijan for the latest immigration updates Employers often work directly with immigration authorities, so they can provide up-to-date travel timelines and documentation guidelines. Common reasons for entry delays Although the border may be opened officially your entry can be postponed because of: Overdue or incomplete documentations Visa information that is not accurate or is missing Contributions in the approval of work permit Visa-types airline restrictions It is also important to re-check your status on the issuance of visa, work permit number and dates of your travel to your destination before making a flight booking. Certain industries in Azerbaijan have quotas for foreign workers, and employers must justify hiring a foreigner over a local candidate. This can affect the timeline for your work permit and entry visa. What to do if entry is not yet permitted If your work permit is approved but you cannot yet travel: Communicate with your employer to request a delayed start date Avoid purchasing non-refundable tickets Prepare your documents and keep them updated Consider remote onboarding if your company allows it Delaying entry by a few weeks until all procedures are confirmed is often safer than risking deportation or denied entry at the airport. Although official processing times for work permits are 20–30 working days, in practice it can take 1–2 months due to document checks, quotas, or additional requirements. Final thoughts The holder of work permits is free to enter into Azerbaijan within the normal immigration procedures provided that he/she has been completely accepted prior to the actual entry. Legal procedures should be observed and proper documentations should be prepared, and you have to be able to contact your employer and also the Azerbaijani authorities. This is not to say that you need not make an entry with a tourist or visiting visa and think of working there without giving your entry status. Never take the illegal path because it would not only jeopardize your status but also your successful beginning of the job in Azerbaijan.