New Regulation for Russian Citizens Visiting Azerbaijan: 90 Days Per Calendar Year

Understanding the Change: What Exactly Is New?

Previously, Russian citizens could enter Azerbaijan visa-free and could stay at most 90 days on each entry with multiple entries available annually. Due to the great degree of flexibility in this agreement, some people wound up spending more time in Azerbaijan than they had planned and were provided short-term visitation permission.

The system has been improved since then. Beginning in 2025, the 90 days will be cumulative for each calendar year rather than per entry.  In other words, you cannot spend more than 90 days in Azerbaijan between January 1 and December 31 of the same year, regardless of how many times you visit the country.

This is a clarification rather than a reduction in privileges, and it is in line with global best practices observed in countries across Europe and beyond.

Russian nationals can stay up to 90 days per calendar year 

Who Does This Apply To?

The new rule specifically applies to:

• Citizens of the Russian Federation
• Stateless persons who are permanent residents of Russia

It’s important to emphasize that visa-free access is still in place. For short visits, Russian nationals do not require a visa to enter Azerbaijan; they just need to ensure they stay within the recently implemented 90-day annual limit.

Want to Stay Longer? Here Are Your Options

Applying for legal permission to stay longer than 90 days is necessary if you intend to stay in Azerbaijan for work, study, family visits, or extended stays.

There are two primary pathways:

1. Extension of Temporary Stay

If you have a good reason to stay longer—such as continuing medical care, business commitments, or other authorized circumstances—you can choose this option. You must apply before the end of your 90-day period.

2. Temporary Residence Permit

Applying for a temporary residence permit might be possible if your stay includes long-term goals like work, education, or family reunion. This process involves additional documentation and approval by the State Migration Service of Azerbaijan.

What Happens If You Overstay?

Azerbaijan takes compliance seriously. If a traveler exceeds the 90-day limit without obtaining an extension or residence permit, they must leave the country before the 90th day.

Failure to comply could result in:

• Fines
• Deportation
• Temporary bans on re-entry

Authorities at border checkpoints and within the country are equipped to track stay durations, especially for frequent visitors. Therefore, it's advisable to check early and take action before you reach the limit if you're not sure.

Russian nationals can enter Azerbaijan visa-free for short visits, staying within the 90-day annual limit 

Why the Policy Update Matters

This move is one part of a broader initiative by Azerbaijan's government to strengthen migration management and enhance coordination with international partners. While still hosting visitors from Russia and other countries, Azerbaijan strengthens its border management regime by instituting a clearly established annual stay limit.

The updated rule also promotes reciprocal transparency, as many countries — including those in the Schengen Area — operate on a similar 90-day-per-year basis for visa-free travelers.

Final Thoughts: A Friendly Reminder to Plan Ahead

The revised rules define expectations rather than limiting travel. Azerbaijan continues to be accessible and friendly to Russian tourists with its rich cultural past, business opportunities, and lively cultural experiences.

The key takeaway? Plan smart. Track your days. Stay compliant.

In case you're intending multiple trips in 2025 or wish to linger longer, the time is now to familiarize yourself with your options. Additionally, 90 days is more than enough for the typical visitor to get to see everything Azerbaijan has to offer, from the Baku cobblestone streets to the Caspian Sea Coast.