travel to azerbaijan requirements

COVID information

Covid-19 restrictions & advisory.

Last updated on  11/12/2023

The health and safety of our residents and visitors is of utmost priority and the Operational Headquarters under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan is working closely with the World Health Organization to monitor and limit the transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19). 

TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS TO AZERBAIJAN

• From 28 March 2023 at 06:00, entry into and exit out of the Republic of Azerbaijan of all foreign citizens, citizens of other countries permanently residing in those countries and stateless persons was permitted by air transport.
• For more information on available flight options, please visit the official website of Heydar Aliyev International Airport -  https://www.airport.az/
• Border officials are taking necessary steps to disinfect land border crossings.
• According to a measure by the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan, dated 18 April 2020, in accordance with Article 25 of the Law of the Republic of Azerbaijan, ‘On Sanitary and Epidemiological Safety’, the special quarantine regime applied in the country has been extended until 2 April 2024 at 06:00.
• Based on an analysis of the global situation in connection with the COVID-19 pandemic and, in order to prevent the spread of the virus in the country, measures on exiting and entering the territory of the Republic of Azerbaijan by overland means of transport across land borders, excluding cargo transportation, as well as restrictions on international and charter flights, have been extended until 2 April 2024.

Travellers are advised to carry additional supplies of necessary medication in carry-on luggage.

GENERAL ADVISORY FOR VISITORS

This advisory serves as a guide to help visitors during your visit to Azerbaijan.

• Monitor your health closely for two weeks.
• If you have a fever or respiratory symptoms (e.g. cough, runny nose), wear a mask.
• Seek medical attention promptly if symptoms do not subside. Call the clinic in advance and inform the doctor of your travel history.

Travellers should always adopt the following precautions:

• Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Avoid close contact with people who are unwell or showing symptoms of illness.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or bent elbow when coughing or sneezing and dispose of the used tissue immediately.
• Seek medical attention promptly if you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing.

Azerbaijan Tourism Board and the State Tourism Agency are committed to providing a safe environment for all residents and visitors. We thank you for your support and understanding.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. Is it safe to visit Azerbaijan in light of the ongoing spread of COVID-19?

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, which began in December 2019, presents a significant challenge for the entire world. All travellers are recommended to follow the guidelines instructed by the World Health Organisation in preparation for your trip, and to reduce risk of exposure to COVID-19.

2. Will I be at risk of contracting coronavirus if I visit Azerbaijan?

The Operational Headquarters under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan is working closely with the World Health Organisation to monitor the situation and limit the transmission of the virus. Rest assured, the health and safety of our residents and visitors is of utmost priority and precautionary measures are being taken to minimise risks.

3. Is Azerbaijan restricting travel from any destinations in particular?

When entering the Republic of Azerbaijan, citizens of foreign countries, citizens of other countries permanently residing in those countries and stateless persons no longer require a COVID-19 passport (a document confirming that they have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or that they have recovered from COVID-19 and have immunity).

Based on an analysis of the global situation in connection with the COVID-19 pandemic and in order to prevent the spread of the virus in the country, measures on exiting and entering the territory of the Republic of Azerbaijan by overland means of transport across land borders, excluding cargo transportation, as well as restrictions on international and charter flights, have been extended until 2 April 2024.

4. What precautions should I take when travelling to Azerbaijan?

All travellers are recommended to follow the guidelines instructed by the World Health Organisation in preparation for your trip, and to reduce risk of exposure to COVID-19. As such, all travellers should monitor their health closely at this time and seek medical attention promptly if they feel unwell. If they have a fever or respiratory symptoms (e.g. cough, runny nose), they should wear a mask and call any medical establishment before visiting. Other precautions to adopt:

• Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash with soap and water.
• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth.

The use of personal equipment protecting respiratory passages is obligatory in transport facilities used for inter-city (inter-regional) and intra-city (intra-regional) passenger transportations, public catering, trade, work and service facilities.

5. Is it safe to visit Azerbaijan’s sights (e.g. malls, landmarks)?

All travellers arriving in Azerbaijan should monitor the local news for closures and restrictions of tourist sights.

6. If I suspect that I have come into contact with the virus, what steps should I take? Will I get access to Azerbaijan medical facilities?

You should seek medical assistance by calling 103 (within Baku), 113 (outside Baku) or 1542.

7. Are tourist facilities in Azerbaijan operating and is a COVID-19 passport required to visit them?

Quarantine regime is being applied in the country until 2 April 2024 at 06:00. To enter specified places (where celebrations are being held, sports and health-rehabilitation facilities, large shopping centres, public catering facilities, hotels, inter-city and inter-district transport routes and other places where such a requirement is established), there is no longer a need for a COVID -19 passport (document confirming full vaccination against COVID-19 or immunity after recovery from COVID-19), regardless of country of citizenship.

8. Can foreign citizens get vaccinated in Azerbaijan? If yes, which vaccines are available?

To get vaccinated in Azerbaijan, foreign citizens need to have a residence or work permit in the country. Those eligible for vaccination need to get registered at the local polyclinic according to the place of residence. Currently, people over age 18 can get vaccinated with Sinovac, Pfizer and Sputnik V, while Vaxzevria is administered to those over 60.

9. Has the outbreak of coronavirus caused serious damage to Azerbaijan’s tourism industry?

The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak presents a significant challenge for the entire world. At present, the health and safety of our residents and visitors is of utmost priority and precautionary measures are being taken to minimise risks.

According to current COVID-19 regulations in the Republic of Azerbaijan the below-mentioned foreigners and stateless persons are allowed to enter/exit the country:

1.    Airways – All foreigners and stateless persons; 2.    Land borders – excluding freight transportation, only with the necessary permission of The Task Force under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

Note: All foreigners and stateless persons are allowed only to leave The Republic of Azerbaijan without permission through land borders.  

• KAYAK for Business NEW

Azerbaijan Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Azerbaijan

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in enclosed environments.

Ready to travel?

Find flights to azerbaijan, find stays in azerbaijan, explore more countries on travel restrictions map, destinations you can travel to now, dominican republic, netherlands, philippines, puerto rico, switzerland, united arab emirates, united kingdom, know when to go.

Sign up for email alerts as countries begin to open - choose the destinations you're interested in so you're in the know.

Can I travel to Azerbaijan from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Azerbaijan.

Can I travel to Azerbaijan if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Azerbaijan without restrictions.

Can I travel to Azerbaijan without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Azerbaijan without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Azerbaijan?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Azerbaijan.

Can I travel to Azerbaijan without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Azerbaijan?

Mask usage in Azerbaijan is not required in enclosed environments.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Azerbaijan?

Restaurants in Azerbaijan are open. Bars in Azerbaijan are .

Situation in Haiti March 29, 2024

U.s. citizens in haiti, update january 10, 2024, information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Share this page:

Azerbaijan Travel Advisory

Travel advisory november 2, 2023, azerbaijan - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued after periodic review with general security updates.

Exercise increased caution in Azerbaijan due to  terrorism concerns and areas of armed conflict . Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. 

Do not travel to:

• The border region with Armenia.
• The  Nagorno-Karabakh  region and surrounding territories due to recent hostilities.

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups that continue to plot attacks pose a risk in Azerbaijan. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas. 

Until September 2020 the territory of Nagorno-Karabakh and seven surrounding territories were under Armenian control. Following armed hostilities in the fall of 2020 and fall of 2023, Azerbaijan took control of these seven territories and Nagorno-Karabakh. Further military activity could occur in the region.  

Read the  country information  page for additional information on travel to Azerbaijan.

If you decide to travel to Azerbaijan:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Azerbaijan.
• Avoid demonstrations. 
• Stay alert in locations frequented by foreigners. 
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Border with Armenia– Level 4: Do Not Travel There is the potential for fighting along the Azerbaijan-Armenia border as part of the ongoing armed conflict. U.S. citizens should avoid the area.  Exercise caution on roads near Azerbaijan’s border with Armenia. Be aware that some portions of the road may cross international boundaries without notice. Roads may be controlled by checkpoints or closed to travelers without notice. The U.S. embassy has prohibited embassy employees and their families from non-essential travel to the border region. 

Nagorno-Karabakh – Level 4: Do Not Travel The U.S. government is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in and around Nagorno-Karabakh due to landmine contamination and restricted access.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, azerbaijan map, search for travel advisories, external link.

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

E-visa to Azerbaijan

Just in 3 steps.

Application

About e-visa, about migration.

© 2024 ASAN Visa

• Skip to main content
• Skip to "About this site"

Language selection

Search travel.gc.ca.

Help us to improve our website. Take our survey !

COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Azerbaijan travel advice

Latest updates: Health – editorial update

Last updated: March 13, 2024 14:13 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, azerbaijan - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Azerbaijan due to regular tensions in areas along the border between Azerbaijan and Armenia.

Districts in the western part of Azerbaijan - Avoid all travel

The Government of Canada’s ability to provide consular services in these regions is extremely limited.

Border with Armenia - Avoid all travel

This advisory excludes the area within 1 km of the border between Armenia and the Azerbaijani Autonomous Republic of Nakhchivan where you should avoid non-essential travel due to the risk of armed clashes.

Back to top

Districts in the western part of Azerbaijan

Unexploded ordnance continue to pose a risk in areas of western Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region, especially in the following districts:

You must have special travel permission from Azerbaijani authorities to enter these areas.  

The Government of Canada’s ability to provide consular services in these regions is extremely limited.

If you decide to travel to the Nagorno-Karabakh region and/or to districts in the Western part of Azerbaijan despite the advisory in effect:

• be extremely vigilant in remote areas  
• stay on paved and main roads 
• don’t walk in fields  
• avoid roadside ditches, shoulders and unmarked trails  
• pay attention to signs indicating the possible presence of unexploded ordnance
• report any suspicious items to local authorities  

Border areas with Armenia

The Government of Canada’s ability to provide consular services in areas along the Armenia-Azerbaijan international borders is extremely limited.

The security environment remains highly volatile at the border between Azerbaijan and Armenia since the November 2020 ceasefire agreement ending the Second Karabakh War with Azerbaijan. The ceasefire observed by Russian peacekeepers remains in effect, but there have been numerous violations and tensions could resume at any time. 

In 2023, Azerbaijan established a border checkpoint at a bridge at the entrance of the Lachin corridor at the border with Armenia. All other border crossings into Armenia are closed.

Border areas with Armenia are subject to extremely dangerous military activities, such as:

• mortar and artillery shelling
• rocket fire
• drone attacks
• heavy gunfire

If you choose to travel near the border with Armenia despite this advisory:

• exercise caution at all times
• avoid travelling at night
• monitor local and international media to stay informed on clashes
• follow instructions from local authorities and security forces

Crime is relatively low. Most reported crimes involve burglary, assault or petty crime, such as pickpocketing.

Thieves sometimes pose as police officers and demand that tourists pay on-the-spot fines. If faced with this situation, offer to follow the officer to the nearest police station to pay the fine.

• Avoid walking alone after dark
• Be careful in areas that attract large crowds and areas that are very isolated or dimly lit
• Don’t carry large amounts of cash
• Don’t display signs of affluence
• Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

If you’re travelling to Azerbaijan to meet someone you’ve only met online, you may be the victim of a scam.

More about overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

There have been incidents of drink spiking, resulting in victims being robbed.

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place from time to time.

Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. Police may use force to suppress demonstrations.

They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)

There is a threat of terrorism. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings in public places.

Stay at hotels that have robust security measures. Keep in mind, however, that even the most secure locations can’t be considered completely free of risk.

Road Safety

Highways and major city roads are well-maintained, but driving can still be dangerous due to poor driving standards and poorly maintained cars. Many drivers do not pay attention to speed limit, traffic rules and traffic signs. Insufficient street lighting and signage make travel dangerous outside of Baku. The risk increases on certain roads that are shared with pedestrians and livestock.

Authorities don’t enforce traffic rules consistently.

Pedestrians should exercise caution.

Public transportation

Buses are poorly maintained, often overcrowded and unsafe, particularly outside of Baku. Baku Metro is reasonably maintained and has basic safety equipment. Expect to see security cameras throughout the platforms and a police presence at each metro station, particularly at night.

Only use officially marked taxis, which are metered, have seatbelts and are cheaper than unmarked taxis. Avoid shared taxis and unofficial taxis because passengers have been assaulted.

If you must travel by train, store personal belongings in a safe place and don’t leave your compartment unattended. Ensure the door is secured from the inside.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

General safety information

Tourist facilities are limited outside of the Absheron Peninsula, Baku, Lankoran and Quba.

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Azerbaijani authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave from Azerbaijan.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Canadians must be in possession of a visa to visit Azerbaijan.

Tourist visa: Required

Business visa: Required

Student visa: Required

Transit visa: Required

If you plan to visit Azerbaijan, you must have a visa before arriving in the country. As a tourist, you can apply for an e-visa through Azerbaijan’s online visa portal. You should do so at least 3 days before your planned arrival date.

E-visas are single entry and are valid for 30 days. If you require any other type of visa, you must apply for it from the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan prior to departure.

To obtain any type of visa, you must present a letter of invitation from a contact in Azerbaijan, such as an employer or educational institution. If you don’t have a contact in Azerbaijan, the invitation letter should be submitted by the travel agency in Azerbaijan.

Azerbaijan’s online visa portal

Registration

You must register with the State Migration Service within 15 calendar days of arrival if you intend to stay more than 15 days. Ensure that your passport is stamped with a residency stamp.

Failure to register could result in a fine. You may be stopped from leaving Azerbaijan until the fine is paid.

If you intend to stay in Azerbaijan for more than 30 days, you must obtain a temporary residence card or apply to extend your visa.

State Migration Service

Nagorno-Karabakh

You may need to obtain prior authorization from the Azerbaijan authorities to enter and/or exit the Nagorno-Karabakh region. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Azerbaijan before you travel.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

• visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
• working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
• hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
• working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
• working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is only available in major cities. Medical facilities outside Baku are very limited.

If you are travelling with prescription medication, check with the Azerbaijani embassy to ensure that your medication is legal in Azerbaijan. Carry a copy of your doctor’s prescription and the medication in its original packaging.

Avoid older medical clinics, which often lack basic drugs and equipment and have poor hygiene standards. Some medical clinics require upfront payment in cash for treatment. Medical evacuation, which can be very expensive, may be necessary in the event of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Illegal or restricted activities

It is strictly forbidden to take pictures of military installations and equipment. Trespassing on military sites can lead to arrest. Visitors have been detained and questioned when attempting to photograph military bases, equipment and installations, all of which are considered sensitive.

Promoting religion and trying to convert others are not permitted.

Identification

Carry your passport at all times. Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place in case it’s lost or confiscated. If you are a resident, you must provide proof of residency status. Police checks in public areas are common. You could be fined if you fail to provide proper identification on request from an official.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences of 3 to 7 years and/or heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Azerbaijani law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, homosexuality is not widely accepted in Azerbaijani society.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship

Azerbaijan doesn’t legally recognize dual citizenship for adults (those 18 or older).

If local authorities consider you a citizen of Azerbaijan, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

A citizen of Azerbaijan who has adopted citizenship of a foreign country needs to provide written information to the relevant Azerbaijani executive authority within a month. If you are in Azerbaijan, refer to the State Migration Service. If you are outside of the country, then refer to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Azerbaijan. Persons who do not report will be punished with fines ranging from 3000 to 5000 manats and/or community works from 360 to 480 hours, in accordance with the Criminal Code of Azerbaijan.

Canadians with Azerbaijani citizenship may be subject to national obligations, such as taxes and military service, and should check their status with the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan to Canada prior to travelling.

Military service is mandatory for male Azerbaijani citizens between the ages of 18 and 35. Those who have not completed their military service could face fines or arrest.

General information for travellers with dual citizenship

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Azerbaijan.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Azerbaijan by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Azerbaijan to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

You must carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

There is zero tolerance for drinking and driving.

Traffic stops are common. Always carry your licence, IDP, proof of insurance and vehicle registration.

You must have the following documents in the car:

• vehicle registration document
• passport and driver’s licence
• proof of insurance
• first aid kit
• proof that the car is roadworthy (check-up card)

If you own a car, you must get an annual roadworthiness test done between January 1 and October 31. You will be given a check-up card each year after the inspection.

Imports and exports

Customs authorities strictly enforce regulations concerning the import or export of firearms, religious materials, pieces of art and antiquities.

You must declare foreign currency upon entry. You can’t leave the country with more than you brought in.

Dress and behaviour

Azerbaijan is a secular state, but some people closely adhere to Islamic practices and beliefs.

• Behave discreetly
• Respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities

In 2024, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around March 10.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

The currency of Azerbaijan is the Azerbaijani manat (AZN).

The economy is mostly cash-based. Credit cards are accepted at banks in Baku and in major hotels and restaurants. Few establishments accept credit cards outside of Baku. Several ATMs in major cities dispense both U.S. dollars and Azerbaijani manat.

Azerbaijan is in an active seismic zone.

Heavy rains may trigger floods and landslides, but there are also periods of drought.

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• police: 102
• medical assistance: 103
• firefighters: 101

The Police Office of Crimes By and Against Foreigners offers service in English. You can reach the office at +944 12 590 9966.

Consular assistance

There is no resident Canadian government office in Azerbaijan.You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information from the Embassy of Canada in Ankara, Türkiye.

Azerbaijan, Georgia. Offering consular services to Canadians in Iran.

For emergency consular assistance, call the embassy of Canada in Ankara and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

You are using an outdated browser. Upgrade your browser today or install Google Chrome Frame to better experience this site.

Azerbaijan Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Azerbaijan. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Updated   Global Measles March 22, 2024 Many international destinations are reporting increased numbers of cases of measles. Destination List: Afghanistan, Angola, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Malaysia, Mauritania, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Qatar, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Romania, Russia, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Togo, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Azerbaijan.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to Azerbaijan. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to Azerbaijan.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Azerbaijan. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Azerbaijan, there may be limited or no rabies treatment available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Azerbaijan. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever

• Tick bite 
• Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
• Avoid Bug Bites

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Azerbaijan, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Azerbaijan. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Azerbaijan include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Azerbaijan’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Azerbaijan may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Azerbaijan, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Azerbaijan for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

Other Destinations

If you need help finding travel information:

Message & data rates may apply. CDC Privacy Policy

File Formats Help:

• Adobe PDF file
• Microsoft PowerPoint file
• Microsoft Word file
• Microsoft Excel file
• Audio/Video file
• Apple Quicktime file
• RealPlayer file
• Zip Archive file

Exit Notification / Disclaimer Policy

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cannot attest to the accuracy of a non-federal website.
• Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by CDC or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website.
• You will be subject to the destination website's privacy policy when you follow the link.
• CDC is not responsible for Section 508 compliance (accessibility) on other federal or private website.

Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

Azerbaijan Visa for Tourists in 2024: A Comprehensive Guide

Updated: January 3, 2024

Azerbaijan was once quite isolated and practically all visitors were from the former Soviet block. Today, it’s opening up to the world and allowing more and more nationalities to visit.

Due to their strong ties, most of the former Soviet Union nations are visa-exempt to enter Azerbaijan whereas over 90 other nationalities can easily obtain an eVisa online.

This Azerbaijan visa guide contains up-to-date information about:

• The nationalities that are visa-exempt
• The nationalities that are eligible for an eVisa
• The procedure and required documents for a tourist visa from an Azeri embassy
• The entry and exit processes
• Other pertinent information

Table of Contents

Azerbaijan visa policy.

Azerbaijan offers visa-free entry to only 13 countries, mostly part of the former USSR and recently also some from the Persian Gulf. Most of them can stay in Azerbaijan for 90 days. See below for a full list.

Passport holders from another 91 countries can apply for an eVisa online (complete list below). The USA, Canada, all countries in the EU, the UK, Australia, and New Zealand are some of those countries. The eVisa costs 

• 25 USD (20$ for the visa plus 5$ service fee) for the standard one (delivery within 3 days);
• 60 USD (20$ for the visa plus 40$ service fee) for express one (delivery within 3 hours).

The eVisa is valid for 90 days and allows entry for up to 30 days.

A few countries are also eligible for a visa on arrival (full list below). The visa on arrival costs 30 USD except for Japanese passport holders who can get VOA for free .

Holders of United Arab Emirates residence permit, regardless of nationality, are also eligible for a visa on arrival valid for 30 days. 

Last but not least, Azerbaijan usually relaxes the visa requirements when it hosts international events of great interest. For example, for the Formula One race in Baku, all visitors have historically been eligible to receive a visa on arrival as long as they present a valid ticket for the event. Please check with official Azerbaijan authorities before similar major international events.

AZERBAIJAN VISA TYPES

There are three main ways to enter Azerbaijan as a tourist. 

• Visa Exemption: Enter without a visa if you’re from one of the 13 visa-exempt countries
• Visa on Arrival: Receive a visa on arrival if you’re from one of the 11 eligible countries
• eVisa: Obtain an eVisa through the Azerbaijan government eVisa portal
• Tourist Visa: Apply for a regular tourist visa from one of Azerbaijan’s embassies abroad

AZERBAIJAN VISA REQUIREMENTS

As with any other country, there are certain requirements one must comply with when planning a visit to Azerbaijan as a tourist.

Passport validity required to enter Azerbaijan

The required passport validity depends on the method used to enter Azerbaijan.

Visa Exemption

If entering on a visa exemption, your passport must be valid for at least 3 months more than the intended date of departure.

eVisa, VOA, or embassy-issued tourist visa

If entering with any of the tourist visas, the validity period of the passport must be at least 3 months more than the validity period of the said visa.

The eVisa is valid for 90 days, allowing a single entry into Azerbaijan for up to 30 days. This means that, for example, if your visa is issued on 5 February 2024, and valid until 5 May 2024, then your passport must be valid at least until 5 August 2024.

Return or onward ticket out of Azerbaijan

If you’re visa-exempt or using an eVisa to enter Azerbaijan, no proof of return or onward ticket is required. 

When you apply for a standard tourist visa, you will be asked for a flight itinerary , including a return ticket. However, the border officials will rarely ask to see this.

Ban on Armenians

Due to the prolonged and ongoing state of war between Armenia and Azerbaijan, entry is refused to all Armenian passport holders, as well as any foreign national of Armenian descent.

Even having an Armenian last name, regardless of your nationality, makes you ineligible to travel to Azerbaijan.

COVID entry restrictions

As of November 2023, entry into Azerbaijan is only possible by air. The special quarantine provision was extended until 2 January 2024.

These entry restrictions were initially put in place during the COVID pandemic but have been continuously extended every 2-3 months. It is safe to assume that it’s no longer because of a concern for health but more due to geopolitical concerns.

It is uncertain if the provision will cease on 2 January or be extended further.

Surprisingly, all visitors to Azerbaijan are allowed to exit through a land border.

AZERBAIJAN VISA EXEMPTION

There are 13 visa-exempt countries. Unless otherwise specified, the visa exemption allows stays of up to 90 days within Azerbaijan.

• Qatar (30 days)
• United Arab Emirates

AZERBAIJAN eVISA

The Azerbaijan eVisa is one of the simplest I’ve ever completed. It’s easy, fast, and relatively cheap compared to other similar eVisas.

Eligibility

There are 91 countries whose nationals are eligible for an eVisa for Azerbaijan. These are:

• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• North Macedonia
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turkmenistan
• United Kingdom
• United States
• Vatican City

Apply for the Azerbaijan eVisa ONLY through their official ASAN Visa website . Be careful because similar websites pretend to the official but are in fact owned by tour companies and charge more for a service that is easily done independently. 

The only document you need to apply is a good-quality picture of your passport.

Once on the eVisa portal, the steps for applying are as follows:

• Pick your nationality and type of passport. If you’re not eligible for the eVisa, the platform will tell you. Otherwise, proceed to step 2.
• Select the starting date of validity for the eVisa. If you’re not sure, it’s better to pick an earlier date. You cannot before this date, but you can enter up to 90 days after it. The portal will show you the eVisa validity and the price.
• Fill in your personal information. Make use of the file explaining frequently made mistakes and the one showing acceptable document pictures .
• Check your email and click “Approve”.
• Pay for the eVisa using any 3D Secure bank card; There is a 1$ bank fee when paying with a foreign card making the total 26$ for a standard eVisa or 61$ for an express one.
• Receive the eVisa as a PDF in your email within 3 days.

AZERBAIJAN VISA ON ARRIVAL (VOA)

Travelers from 11 countries can get a visa on arrival when arriving by air. There are also certain special conditions and exceptions for special cases that we look at below.

Eligibility by Nationality

The following countries are eligible to receive a visa on arrival valid for 30 days:

The VOA costs 30$ except for travelers from Japan for whom it’s free.

Eligibility by Residence 

Holders of a resident visa for the United Arab Emirates with at least 6 months validity are eligible to receive a 30-day visa on arrival at any international airport in Azerbaijan.

Special cases

There are certain conditions that can make one qualify for a visa on arrival.

• If you have a resident card from Qatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, or Kuwait AND are accompanied by a citizen of the same country that issued it.
• If you’re a citizen of the US traveling on a direct flight from New York to Baku on an Azerbaijan Airways flight. Unfortunately, these flights were discontinued when the pandemic began and haven’t restarted yet.
• If you’re from a country that doesn’t have an Azerbaijan embassy AND take a direct flight to Azerbaijan from that country.

Check out the Azerbaijan Foreign Ministry website for more information.

AZERBAIJAN TOURIST VISA FROM THE EMBASSY

If you’re not from one of the countries eligible for an eVisa and don’t qualify for either of the other options, then you have to obtain a regular tourist visa from an Azerbaijan embassy.

For the tourist visa, Azeri embassies require the following documents:

• Application form (filled online and printed out);
• Passport and copy of its main page;
• Two color photos (3 x 4 cm);
• Flight itinerary;
• Proof of accommodation;
• A receipt on payment of the state fee for visa;

You may submit the visa application in person but make sure to book an appointment online first . 

You may also send the application by post to the Embassy. In most countries, you will have to attach a postal order payable to the Embassy so they send the visa back via mail.

The state fee for a single-entry visa is 35 EUR for all countries part of the EU or Schengen and 20 USD for all other countries.

The multiple-entry visa is 35 EUR for all countries part of the EU or Schengen and 350 USD for all other countries.

Check out the current visa fee here .

ENTRY AND EXIT PROCEDURE AT THE AIRPORT

Flying into Azerbaijan

Upon landing at an airport in Azerbaijan, the next step depends on your visa status.

If you’re visa-exempt proceed directly to the immigration counters. Get your passport stamped and move on to arrivals or baggage reclaim.

If you have an eVisa, proceed to the immigration counters. You may be asked some questions about how long you intend to stay in Azerbaijan and where you plan to go but you will quickly get through with a stamp in your passport.

If you need to obtain a visa on arrival, look for the E-ASAN Self-Desk Kiosk in the area just before Passport Control.

Follow the automated procedures and get the VOA. Then head to the immigration counters and get the entry stamp.

Flying out of Azerbaijan

When leaving Azerbaijan you will go through passport control at the airport. The officer will check that you haven’t overstayed your visa and may ask for your registration paper if you stayed in Azerbaijan longer than 15 days (more information below in the registration section).

Entering Azerbaijan if you’ve been to Armenia

Due to the constant war between Azerbaijan and Armenia, you may be subject to additional questioning and examination at the border.

Having been to Armenia is NOT however grounds to be denied entry into Azerbaijan.

Most travelers who’ve been to both countries face minimal questioning in regard to that. When I arrived at Baku International Airport, the official saw the Armenian entry stamp and called her supervisor.

They asked me where I’ve been in Armenia and for how long. After taking a photo of the Armenian stamp, they let me through. It took less than 2 minutes.

This is unlikely to change soon even after the events of September 2023 .

This is NOT the case if you’ve been to Nagorno Karabakh (Artsakh).

Entering Azerbaijan if you’ve been to Nagorno-Karabakh (Artsakh)

You CANNOT travel to Azerbaijan if you’ve been to Nagorno-Karabakh. 

Any evidence of such, including passport stamps, paper visas, even luggage tags, or other documents will result in denial of entry or even arrest and prosecution for illegal entry into Azerbaijan.

Some adventurous travelers have done it but in any case, it’s not worth the risk.

Azerbaijan considers Nagorno-Karabakh an intrinsic part of its sovereign territory. Up until recently, it was de-facto controlled by the Republic of Artsakh, backed by Armenia. The information presented here is valid even after the ceasefire and annexation of Nagorno-Karabakh in September 2023.

It remains to be seen what changes there will be to this rule.

Tourist registration if staying longer than 15 days in Azerbaijan

All travelers who stay in Azerbaijan for longer than 15 days must register with the migration police.

This rule is strictly enforced at the border upon exit and you may be subject to hefty fines (up to 300 AZN / 176$) if you haven’t registered but stayed longer than 15 days.

Registration can be done:

• By your hotel;
• In person at a migration police office;
• By mail to the migration police;
• Online (easiest)

You only need to complete one registration. Even if you change accommodation, no further action is necessary after the first registration.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

Can i get a visa for azerbaijan online.

Most nationalities are eligible for an eVisa. You can apply for it online on the official ASAN portal .

Do Americans need a visa for Azerbaijan?

Yes, American citizens need a visa to visit Azerbaijan. They are eligible to obtain an Azerbaijan visa online.

Do EU citizens need a visa for Azerbaijan?

Yes, EU citizens need a visa to visit Azerbaijan. You can get the visa online. 

Do Indian citizens need a visa for Azerbaijan?

Yes, Indians are required to have a visa to visit Azerbaijan. You can get the eVisa online.

Can I travel to Azerbaijan if I’ve been to Armenia?

Yes, you can. You may be subject to additional questioning (where you’ve been, how long, why, etc). There are no additional requirements but you must comply with the current ones.

Can I travel to Azerbaijan if I’ve been to Nagorno-Karabakh?

Theoretically possible but it’s definitely not advised. Any evidence of prior travel there may get you in deep trouble.

Do I need a visa to travel to Nagorno-Karabakh?

The ordinary tourist visa is NOT enough to travel to Nagorno-Karabakh. You must obtain a special permit in order to travel there from the Azerbaijan side.

This guide is your ultimate resource for all things about Azerbaijan visa, including visa-exempt countries, eVisa-eligible countries and procedures, and tourist visa requirements and documents needed.

Check out some of the related visa guides:

• Georgia Visa for Tourists and Visitors
• Armenia Visa for Tourists and Visitors
• Turkey Visa for Tourists and Visitors

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

06. Get your zero-fee ATM card

You can manage money internationally in over 70 currencies using  Wise . With a Wise card, you can store and withdraw cash in 40 currencies with zero ATM fees. 

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

MORE VISA GUIDES

UNITED KINGDOM

VIEW ALL VISA GUIDES

• Cookie Policy
• Copyright Notice
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Flight Itinerary
• Hotel Reservation
• Travel Insurance
• Onward Ticket
• Testimonials

Search this site

Search Smartraveller

Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution in Azerbaijan overall  due to the unpredictable security situation and ongoing tension along the border between Azerbaijan and Armenia.

Higher levels apply in some areas.

Azerbaijan (PDF 222.56 KB)

Europe (PDF 2.62 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 112 for the emergency hotline.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in Azerbaijan overall.

Do not travel  to Armenia-Azerbaijan border areas or Nagorno-Karabakh and surrounding military occupied areas.

Do not travel  to:

• Armenia-Azerbaijan border areas due to the risk of regular armed clashes
• Nagorno-Karabakh and surrounding areas due to the uncertain security environment and unmarked landmines.
• The security situation in Nagorno-Karabakh remains uncertain following military action in the region in September 2023.
• It's illegal to enter Nagorno-Karabakh without a permit. Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding region can have unmarked landmines. If, despite our advice, you travel to these areas, get professional security advice.
• Protests can turn violent. Avoid large public gatherings and exercise heightened caution in locations where foreigners may gather.
• Violent crime is rare in Azerbaijan, but foreigners have reported serious crimes, including home burglaries, robbery and assault. Be alert when walking after dark, including near hotels and residential areas. Don't use unofficial taxis. Don't use ATMs on the street.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Medical facilities are adequate in private hospitals in Baku. Services in government hospitals and rural areas are often limited.
• If you're seriously ill or injured, you may need medical evacuation to Turkiye or Western Europe. Ensure your travel insurance covers this.
• Malaria is a risk in the southern lowland areas. The risk is higher in summer, from June to August. Consider taking anti-malarial medication if you're travelling to these areas. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent.
• Foodborne, waterborne and other infectious diseases include typhoid, hepatitis and brucellosis. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food. Avoid unpasteurised dairy products.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Always carry a copy of your passport and visa. The police can fine or detain you if you don't show a valid travel document when asked.
• Ensure you have the proper permits for buying antiques or cultural artefacts. It's illegal to export them without an official certificate and receipt of purchase. Export rules apply to religious objects, carpets, artworks and caviar. Check with local authorities before you export any items.
• It's illegal to convert a person to another faith.
• Most of Azerbaijan is conservative. Public displays of affection may not be welcome. Same-sex relations are legal but aren't widely accepted. LGBTI people may face discrimination, intolerance or violence based on sexuality and gender identity.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• You'll need a visa to visit Azerbaijan. You can apply for an electronic visa valid for 90 days. 
• Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Azerbaijan for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
• Australia doesn't have an embassy in Azerbaijan. For consular assistance, contact the  Australian Embassy in Turkiye .
• You can also get limited consular assistance from the  British Embassy in Baku . They can't provide notarial services or issue Australian passports.
• Follow the embassy's social media accounts to stay up to date with local information.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Civil unrest and political tension.

Demonstrations and protests

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent. Police sometimes use force to break up demonstrations.

To stay safe during periods of unrest:

• avoid public protests and rallies
• monitor local media and other sources
• follow the advice of local authorities

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Conflict zones

The region of Nagorno-Karabakh is now under the control of Azerbaijan following military action in September 2023. The security situation remains uncertain. Monitor local developments and announcements closely. 

We recommend you do not travel to Armenia-Azerbaijan border areas or Nagorno-Karabakh.

Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding region can have unmarked landmines. If, despite our advice, you travel to these areas, get professional security advice. It's illegal to enter Nagorno-Karabakh without a permit.

Serious crime

Violent crime is rare in Azerbaijan.

Foreigners have reported serious crime, including home burglaries,  robbery  and  assault .

Be careful walking after dark, including near hotels and in residential areas.

Drink and food spiking

Watch out for drink and food spiking. This can occur in bars and nightclubs in Baku. You're at higher risk of theft if you get drugged.

Never accept food or drinks from strangers or new acquaintances. Never leave food or drinks unattended.

Petty crime and scams

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can happen. Take care at outdoor markets and on public transport, including the Baku Metro.

Travellers and expats have reported thieves posing as police officers who demand money. Ask to follow the police officer to the nearest station to pay the fine.

Avoid using unofficial taxis. Ask your hotel to arrange one, or go to an official taxi rank.

Use ATMs in controlled areas, like banks, shops and shopping centres. Avoid ATMs that open onto the street, especially at night.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

Cyber security when travelling overseas

Exercise heightened caution in locations where foreigners may gather.

To stay safe:

• be aware while in places known to be possible targets
• report suspicious activities or items to the police
• check the media for new threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the instructions of local authorities

If there is an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe to do so.

Climate and natural disasters

Earthquakes  can happen in Azerbaijan.

To protect yourself if there's a  natural disaster  or  severe weather :

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• keep in contact with friends and family
• check local media and other sources

Register with the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  to receive alerts on major disasters.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Azerbaijan. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.

Carry a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Malaria  is a risk in the southern lowland areas of Azerbaijan. The risk is higher in summer, from June to August.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria

HIV/AIDS  is common. Take precautions if you engage in activities that may expose you to the virus.

Other health risks

Foodborne, waterborne and other infectious diseases are common. These include:

• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid unpasteurised dairy products
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

• Infectious diseases

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Medical facilities are adequate in private hospitals in Baku.

Services in government hospitals and other areas of the country are often limited. Shortages of basic medical supplies are common.

Serious illness or injury may require evacuation to Turkiye or Western Europe. Make sure your insurance covers this. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

Doctors and hospitals will usually need up-front payment before treatment.

Critical care for Australians who become seriously ill is likely to be significantly below the standards available in Australia.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They can include long prison sentences and heavy fines.

• Carrying or using drugs

Always carry a copy of your passport and visa. Routine police checks in public and tourist spots are common.

You could be fined or jailed if you don't show a valid travel document when asked.

In Azerbaijan, it's illegal to:

• visit or take photos of military equipment and sites
• take photos of military personnel
• buy antique or cultural artefacts without a permit
• export antiques or cultural artefacts without an official certificate and receipt of purchase
• convert a person to another faith

Export rules apply to religious objects, carpets, artworks and caviar. Check with local authorities before you export any items.

• If you're suspected of a crime, you may have to stay in Azerbaijan while your case is investigated.

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Azerbaijan doesn't recognise dual nationality.

If you're a dual citizen, this limits the  consular services  we can give if you're arrested or detained.

Always travel on your  Australian passport .

Azerbaijan citizens may need to do military service. If you're an Australian-Azerbaijani dual national, get advice on your service obligations from the  embassy or consulate of Azerbaijan . Do this well before you travel.

• Dual nationals

Local customs

The Islamic holiday month of  Ramadan  is observed in Azerbaijan. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

During Ramadan, eating, drinking, and smoking may be illegal in public during the day. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. Seek local advice to avoid offence.

Explore our  Ramadan  page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Dress and behaviour

Dress standards can be conservative outside of Baku. Public displays of affection may not be welcome. Dress conservatively. Take care not to offend. If in doubt, seek local advice.

LGBTI information

Same-sex relationships are legal but not widely accepted.

Intolerance, discrimination and violence towards LGBTI people happens in Azerbaijan. Avoid public displays of affection.

• Advice for LGBTI people

Visas and Border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

You'll need a visa to visit Azerbaijan. 

You can apply for an electronic visa (e-visa) valid for 90 days. You can do this online through  Azerbaijan's Official Electronic Visa Portal . Allow at least 3 business days for processing.

Visa and other entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Azerbaijan for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Ensure your passport is valid for at least 3 months from the expiry date of the e-visa.

Visa extensions

You can apply to extend or renew your visa through Azerbaijan's  State Migration Service . Keep a copy of your passport and existing visa while your application is being processed. The Ministry of Interior Police may ask to see your documents at any time. See  Local laws .

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Registering with the police

If you plan to stay in Azerbaijan for over 15 days, you must register with the State Migration Service online (registration upon place of stay) or at regional migration departments ( www.migration.gov.az ), even if you have a 90-day visa. Do this within 10 days of arrival. If you don't, you'll be fined.

You may not be able to leave Azerbaijan until you pay the fine and get an exit permit from the  State Migration Service .

Travel via Nagorno-Karabakh

If your passport has visas or stamps from Nagorno-Karabakh, you could be refused entry into Azerbaijan.

Travel via neighbouring countries

Travel restrictions may apply to Australians travelling overland from Azerbaijan to neighbouring countries.

Check the nearest  embassy or consulate of Azerbaijan  for any travel restrictions. You'll also need to check the rules of neighbouring countries.

Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you’re just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you travel. If you’re not sure it’ll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with 'X' gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the  nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

• LGBTI travellers

Azerbaijan's currency is the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN).

Declare any amount of foreign currency on arrival. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

You can export up to $US10,000 without documentation. Contact the  embassy or consulate of Azerbaijan  for details.

Azerbaijan is a cash-based economy. You'll need to pay in local currency for most goods and services.

US dollars and euros are common. You can change notes in good condition for local currency.

Credit cards are becoming more common in major cities. They may not be accepted in smaller restaurants and stores.

Traveller's cheques aren't often accepted, except in major hotels, some restaurants and banks.

ATMs are available in major cities.

Local travel

Driving permit

You can drive in Azerbaijan with a current Australian driver's licence. Foreigners staying for more than one month may need to get a local driver's licence through ASAN Service Offices.

You may also need an International Driving Permit (IDP) for travel and car insurance. Check with your insurer and car provider before you drive.

Road travel

Driving in Azerbaijan can be dangerous. Common dangers include:

• roads and vehicles in poor condition
• drivers who ignore traffic signals and rules
• high-speed crashes that cause serious injury or death
• rural roads without lights or road signs
• sharing the road with pedestrians, slow-moving farm equipment and livestock

Right-hand drive cars are illegal in Azerbaijan.

It's illegal to drive with a blood alcohol reading above 0%.

Before you drive in Azerbaijan:

• check if your travel insurance will cover you
• get to know local road rules

Look out for pedestrians, livestock and farm equipment when you drive, particularly in rural areas.

• Driving or riding

Use registered taxis and authorised limousines. It's best to get your hotel to arrange a taxi for you.

Avoid flagging down taxis in the street.

Always use an official taxi rank.

Sit in the back seat rather than the front.

Public transport

Public transport can be overcrowded, especially buses. It may not meet Australian safety standards.

Take care of your belongings because petty crime occurs.

• Transport and getting around safely

Rail travel

The Baku Metro is fairly good, with basic safety equipment and procedures. Metro signs are in Azerbaijani.

To reduce your risks if you travel by overland train:

• secure your valuables
• don't leave the compartment unattended
• lock the door of your compartment from the inside

Before you travel on Azerbaijan's domestic airlines, be aware that:

• planes may not meet international standards for maintenance
• overbooking and overcrowding is common
• cancellations and delays can occur without explanation

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Azerbaijan's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australia doesn't have an embassy in Azerbaijan. For consular help, contact the Australian Embassy in Turkiye.

Australian Embassy, Ankara

MNG Building, 7th Floor 88 Uĝur Mumcu Caddesi Gaziosmanpaşa, Ankara Turkey Phone: +90 312 459 9500 Fax: +90 312 446 4827 Website:  turkey.embassy.gov.au Email:  [email protected]

Facebook: Australia in Turkiye

Twitter: @AusAmbTurk iye

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

Limited consular assistance (not including notarial services or the issue of Australian passports) is available from the British Embassy in Baku.

British Embassy, Baku

45 Khagani Street Baku 1010 Azerbaijan Phone: (+994 12) 437 7878 Fax: (+994 12) 497 7434 Website:  gov.uk/world/organisations/british-embassy-baku

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Azerbaijan?

Sign up to get the latest travel advice updates..

Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.

Azerbaijan Entry Requirements

• Evisa.Express

Azerbaijan e-Visa

• Entry Requirements

Azerbaijan Entry Requirements are the set of rules that international travelers must follow to enter Azerbaijan hassle-free. One of the standard requirements to travel to Azerbaijan is to hold a passport that will remain valid for a minimum of 180 days. Apart from a valid passport, most travelers will also need to obtain an appropriate Azerbaijan visa covering their particular travel needs.

According to the Azerbaijan visa policy , the visa type that a foreign traveler should obtain may differ depending on their nationality, their travel purpose as well as the planned duration of stay in the country.

Azerbaijan introduced an electronic visa, also known as the ASAN visa, enabling citizens from 100 various countries to obtain a visa via an entirely online application.

Travelers not listed as eligible for e-Visa need to visit the Azerbaijani diplomatic mission and apply for a consular visa in a traditional way even if they plan to visit Azerbaijan for short-term purposes. Moreover, any foreign national who wishes to live or/and work in Azerbaijan must obtain a relevant visa and permit granted upon an in-person visit to the Azerbaijani diplomatic posts.

There are around 10 nationalities who are granted visa-free access to Azerbaijan for a certain time period. The visa-exempt countries are all neighboring Azerbaijan or ex-Soviet states.

Currently, the Azerbaijani authorities prohibit Armenian nationals from entering Azerbaijan, including people of Armenian descent, e.g., Armenian Russians, due to a territorial dispute between these two nations. Any foreign citizen who will enter the territories in dispute may receive a permanent ban on future entries to the country.

During the ongoing pandemic, travelers arriving in Azerbaijan may face some covid-related restrictions. Land border crossings remain closed, and travelers can currently enter Azerbaijan only by air. Passengers who are over 18 must submit Covid-19 vaccination proof upon crossing the Azerbaijan borders. Those who have not been vaccinated must present proof of a positive PCR test (taken more than 2 weeks and less than 6 months before planned travel).

Important: Since the travel restrictions may change at short notice, everyone should consult the latest update before the planned trip.

Who can enter Azerbaijan?

Azerbaijan remains open both for vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers. Depending on the traveler's vaccination status, entry requirements and necessary travel documents may differ.

Documents check-list for entering Azerbaijan

• Covid-19 vaccination proof
• immunity proof (only f unvaccinated)
• Azerbaijan visa
• travel insurance (optional)

Testing, Vaccination, and Quarantine Requirements

Testing requirements.

Fully vaccinated travelers can enter Azerbaijan without needing to have a Covid-19 test. Travelers who have not received the full regimen of coronavirus vaccine are, however, required to submit the immunity proof - a positive PCR test performed more than 14 days and less than 6 months before a trip. No additional Covid-19 tests are necessary.

Vaccination requirements

Non-vaccinated travelers can enter Azerbaijan, but they need to show proof of their immunity. Vaccinated travelers need to show vaccination proof. At least 14 days must have passed since the day of receiving the second vaccination dose. EU Digital Covid Certificates are accepted.

Quarantine requirements

There are currently no quarantine requirements in Azerbaijan.

Traveling from Azerbaijan

Travelers planning to depart from Azerbaijan or make a transit stop there should be aware that there may be limited departure flights.

There are no testing requirements to depart the country. Nevertheless, you should contact your airlines directly for more detailed information. There may also be some Covid-19 restrictions remaining in place in the country of your final destination. Do remember to follow the recent updates to ensure trouble-free travel.

Traveling to Azerbaijan

Entering Azerbaijan is now possible only by air. Land border crossings are still closed.

Travelers aged 18 and older are required to present an official document confirming that they are fully vaccinated against Covid-19.

All visitors to Azerbaijan should familiarize themselves with all the up-to-date restrictions as well as visa regulations.

Entry Rules for Children

Children aged 17 and younger are exempt from the requirement to provide vaccination proof to enter Azerbaijan.

Parents or legal guardians are responsible for obtaining a relevant visa on behalf of the underage travelers accompanying them on a trip to Azerbaijan. In the case of e-Visa, every traveler, regardless of age, must hold a separate visa.

Transit through Azerbaijan

The entry requirements for transit passengers do not differ from the entry restrictions applicable to regular travelers arriving in Azerbaijan. Before your trip, check with your airline whether they imposed their own transit rules.

Visa requirements

Visa-exempt countries.

Azerbaijan offers visa exemption for nationals of 11 different countries who do not need to hold a visa for a short-term stay in the country. The full list includes the following:

• Russian Federation
• Vatican City

The maximum time that they are permitted to stay in Azerbaijan without a visa is 3 months. For longer stays, they will need to obtain a visa covering their particular travel purposes.

Visa-free access to Nakhchivan

Additionally, Iranian nationals may enter one of Azerbaijan's territories, i.e., the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, visa-free.

Azerbaijan introduced an electronic visa system in 2017 which facilitates and speeds up the application process for single-entry electronic visas.

Travelers from eligible countries can use the ASAN system and obtain a visa for a short-term stay. e-Visa covers tourism and business-related activities as well as visiting Azerbaijan for medical treatment.

The entire process can be completed online, while the approved electronic visa is delivered to the applicant's email address.

Currently, the list of Azerbaijan e-Visa eligible countries includes around 100 different nationalities.

Azerbaijan Embassy or Consular Visa

Nationals of around 140 different countries cannot use the ASAN eVisa system to obtain an electronic visa for Azerbaijan. Instead, they need to apply for a visa at the nearest embassy or consulate no matter whether they plan a short-term visit or they have long-term-oriented plans to stay or/and work in Azerbaijan.

Azerbaijan has made visa facilitation agreements with all EU member countries, excluding the Republic of Ireland and Denmark. In practice, it means an easier and less demanding application for nationals of the countries participating in the agreements.

Azerbaijan Restricted Regions

The Azerbaijani authorities introduced a quite strict policy forbidding foreign visitors from entering the separatist region of Nagorno-Karabakh, which is the self-proclaimed Republic of Artsakh, as well as its nearby territories controlled by Armenia. Some of the small exclaves of Azerbaijan being under the control of Armenia are restricted too.

Entering any of these regions without obtaining prior consent may result in receiving a permanent ban on entering any territory of Azerbaijan and a ban on a visa in the future.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is not a legal requirement in Azerbaijan. Nevertheless, buying comprehensive insurance with Covid-19 coverage should be one of the everyone traveler's priorities before planning any international travel.

Evisa Express uses cookies and similar technologies for statistical and analytical purposes to optimize usage. By continuing to browse the site, you are agreeing to our use of cookies. If you do not change the settings, cookies will be saved in your device's memory. Cookie Policy and Terms of Service.

We’re an IATA member

International Air Transport Association (IATA) represents and serves air travel industry with advocacy and global standards for safety, security, efficiency.

Legal Disclaimer: Evisa Express operates with no affiliation with any US governmental agencies or departments. Our consulting service fees do NOT include any government applications, medical examinations, filling, or biometric charges. Since Evisa Express is not a law firm and our customer service representatives are not lawyers, we do not provide legal advice. We operate as a private internet-based travel and immigration consultancy agency providing help to individuals traveling to the United States. Visa applications can be made directly at travel.state.gov or at uscis.gov.

Evisa Express is affiliated with the Canada law firm VisaPlace which provides legal services on immigration matters. Only licensed immigration professionals can provide advice, explanation, opinion, or recommendation about possible legal rights, remedies, defenses, options, selection of forms or strategies. The entity managing the website www.evisa.express is the company INTERNATIONAL VISA SERVICE limited liability limited partnership (LLC LLP), with its registered office in Katowice, ul. Graniczna 29, 40-017 Katowice, Poland, EU. NIP: 9542766476, REGON: 364718356. It is registered with the Katowice-Wschód District Court in Katowice, 8th Commercial Division, under the number KRS 0000623079.

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

Safety and security

This guide also has safety advice for regions of Azerbaijan .

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.    

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Azerbaijan

Terrorist attacks in Azerbaijan cannot be ruled out.

Attacks could be indiscriminate and against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreigner nationals, such as international hotels, restaurants, and pubs, as well as energy sector facilities. Be aware of your surroundings.

Political situation

The political situation in Azerbaijan is generally calm, but demonstrations and opposition rallies can occur.

Avoid large gatherings and any demonstrations. They are illegal and there could be a swift response from the authorities. Monitor the media for information about possible demonstrations and be alert to local and regional developments, which may trigger public disturbances. British media representatives should make sure they are clearly identifiable.

Nagorno-Karabakh

Tensions in Nagorno-Karabakh have calmed since 2023. FCDO continues to advise against all travel to Nagorno-Karabakh due to previous military and political action in the area. See Regional risks .      

Crime levels in Baku are generally low. Be alert to possible bag-snatching or mugging, particularly if you are carrying large amounts of cash or valuables. The risk is higher after dark in the centre of town. Avoid displaying large sums of money or expensive-looking valuables and do not walk alone at night.

Take extra care to guard against card skimming when paying with a credit card or withdrawing money from ATMs.

Try to arrange to be picked up and dropped off as close to your hotel or apartment entrance as possible by a private or company driver, or use a known taxi firm or ride-hailing app.

You can report a crime at any local police station or by telephoning the police on 102. English-speaking staff are available on the telephone, but when reporting a crime at a police station take someone with you who can interpret. Do not sign any documents unless you understand them.

There are occasionally reports of government officials asking foreign nationals to make undocumented payments. If you think you have been mistreated by a traffic policeman or health professional, report your case to the relevant government department.

Laws and cultural differences

Azerbaijan is a largely secular society, although most of the population is Muslim. Religion is usually considered a private matter.

Personal ID

Police sometimes carry out checks of identity documents. Carry your passport at all times. Keep a copy of the photo page in a safe place.

In Baku local and foreign women usually dress in conservative western-style clothing. It is now more acceptable for men to wear shorts in Baku in the summer months. Outside of Baku it may still be frowned upon and you may receive unwelcome attention.

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. In 2024, Ramadan in Azerbaijan is expected to run from 11 March until 9 April. Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.

You should also:

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants
• follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time
• be aware that driving may be erratic, particularly when people are trying to get home at dusk.
• be patient and show tolerance

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Possession or use of illegal drugs carries severe penalties. The usual penalty for smuggling drugs is a fine and a prison sentence of 3 to 7 years.

Using cameras

Be aware of cultural sensitivities when photographing mosques, churches and other religious sites or sites of commemoration, such as the Alley of Martyrs in Baku. If in doubt, ask for permission.

Military bases, equipment and installations in any condition are considered sensitive areas, and visitors have been detained and questioned while attempting to visit or photograph them.

LGBT+ travellers

While same-sex sexual activity is not illegal, LGBT+ people in Azerbaijan tend to keep a low profile. Showing affection in public is frowned upon, especially outside of Baku and among the older generation.

Holding hands or embracing between men is usually a sign of friendship.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Transport risks

Road travel.

If you are planning to drive in Azerbaijan, see information on driving abroad and read the RAC guide on driving in Azerbaijan . The guide lists driving regulations and other legal requirements you need to be aware of.

Licences and permits

You’ll need to have both the 1968 version of the international driving permit ( IDP ) and your UK driving licence with you in the car. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel. You can buy an IDP in person from some UK post offices – find your nearest post office branch that offers this service .

After one month, you will need an Azerbaijani driving licence issued through the ASAN Service Offices . You need to carry a green card as proof you’re insured to drive in Azerbaijan.

Right-hand-drive cars are not permitted in Azerbaijan. If you’re planning to hire a car, check with your car hire company for information on their requirements before you travel.

Road conditions

Many vehicles are poorly maintained, and the standard of driving is erratic. Accidents are common, mainly due to poor or reckless driving and inconsistent enforcement of traffic rules. Drivers often ignore one-way signs.

Road closures and diversions are often unmarked. Take care when driving at night as many roads are of poor quality and badly lit. Traffic lights that are flashing amber at night mean cars can proceed with caution in either direction.

Drink-driving is a serious offence in in Azerbaijan. If you are tested and found to have any alcohol in your system, you may get a severe fine and possibly a prison sentence. 

In the winter months snowfall often causes problems. Pack your vehicle with a blanket, shovel, torch, snacks and old carpet to help if you get stuck in snow.

Some visitors have reported being severely overcharged by local taxis. When using taxis, agree a fare up front, or make sure the taxi meter is switched on. Check that the taxi has working seatbelts.

Ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Bolt are widely available in Azerbaijan.

Rail travel    

If you travel by train, secure your valuables, do not leave the compartment unattended, and lock the door from the inside, if your compartment allows.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Earthquakes.

There is a risk of earthquakes across the Caucasus region, although there have been no recent serious earthquakes in Azerbaijan. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake .

Related content

Is this page useful.

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.

Select language

Top searched pages

• Ok to board
• Manage booking
• Flight status
• Claim miles
• Visit our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
• Book a flight
• Meet and greet
• Home check-in
• Airport transfer
• Book with a promo code
• Book a Flight + Hotel
• Manage your booking
• Upgrade to Business Class
• Online check-in
• Add baggage
• Select seat
• Add travel insurance
• Additional services
• Select an extra legroom seat
• Book a hotel
• Park and fly New
• Book a tour
• Sporting equipment
• Visa-on-arrival destinations

Quick links

• Fare types and rules
• Visas and passports
• Visa requirements by country
• Ways to pay
• Business Class
• Economy Class
• Accessibility and assistance services
• Boeing 737 MAX
• Onboard experience
• eShop by flydubai
• Hand baggage
• Checked baggage
• Forbidden items
• Delayed or damaged baggage
• Special baggage
• Airport baggage rates
• Belt pick-up and delivery
• Terminal 3 (DXB) operations
• Umrah/Hajj season flights
• Flights operated by Smartwings
• Flying while pregnant
• Wheelchair and mobility assistance
• Interline baggage allowance and rules

Flying with us

• All destinations
• Central Asia
• Indian Subcontinent
• Middle East
• Southeast Asia
• Flights to Tbilisi
• Flights to Pattaya
• Flights to Milan
• Flights to Istanbul
• Flights to Colombo
• Flights to Riyadh
• Holidays by flydubai
• Lowest fares
• Travel ideas
• Connecting flights

Where we fly

Popular getaways, new destinations.

• Spending Miles
• Membership tiers
• Programme partners
• Skywards FAQs
• Contact Skywards
• Skywards T&Cs
• Member login
• Join Skywards
• Add Skywards number

Emirates Skywards

Discover more.

• Operational updates
• Payment partners
• Voucher partners
• flydubai corporate travel
• Partner with flydubai
• Travel agents login
• Tax invoice

Travel requirements by country

Learn more about travel, testing and vaccination requirements in the country of your departure, transit or arrival.

The browser you are using may not be compatible with our website.

Please upgrade to the latest version of Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Internet Explorer or download another web browser.

Google Chrome

Mozilla Firefox

Internet Explorer

Role and policies

• About the Department
• Global Ireland strategies
• International priorities
• Trade and promoting Ireland
• Support for Irish diaspora
• Ireland at the European Union
• Ireland at the United Nations
• Northern Ireland
• Passport Online
• How to apply for a passport
• Post Passport
• Current turnaround times
• Track your passport
• Urgent appointment service
• Passport Card
• Passport FAQs
• Citizenship
• Overseas travel
• Travel Advice

Know Before You Go

Assistance abroad

• Citizens registration
• EU Consular Protection Directive
• Consular services Consular assistance charter Authentications and apostilles Marriage and civil partnership abroad Registering a foreign birth Honorary Consuls
• Visas for Irish people going abroad
• Visas for Ireland
• US-Ireland Holiday Working Agreement
• Working Holiday Authorisation
• Irish Embassies and Consulates abroad
• Embassies in Ireland

Our travel advice helps you to make informed decisions when you’re planning a trip overseas and offers you an objective assessment of the risks you could face.

Security Status

Safety and security, local laws and customs, additional information, embassy contact.

High Degree of Caution

Travel Alert

The Department of Foreign Affairs strongly advises against all travel to:

• Nagorno-Karabakh and the area surrounding it.
• Within 5km of the border with Armenia.

On 19 September 2023, Azerbaijan launched a military operation in Nagorno-Karabakh, a region of Azerbaijan which had been subject of a continuing dispute between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Travel to the region and its immediate surroundings is strongly advised against due to the possibility of encountering unexploded ordinance. There is a strong military presence, and travel to the area is not possible without the permission of the Azerbaijani authorities. For further information, please read the Safety and Security section of this page.

General Travel Advice

Irish citizens require a visa to enter Azerbaijan. Citizens can apply online using the e-visa website . Visas are valid for 90 days, and stays must not exceed 30 days in total.

A valid passport is required for travel to Azerbaijan. Irish passports should have a minimum validity of 3 months from the expiry date of your Azerbaijani visa. Passport cards cannot be used.

Visitors to Azerbaijan are advised to follow the guidance of national and local authorities and stay fully informed of what is going on by monitoring local news and social media.

Emergency Assistance

The best help is often close at hand so if a problem arises, try talking to local contacts, tour operator representatives or hotel management.

Visitors can contact the emergency services in Azerbaijan. Specific emergency numbers are:

• Fire brigade: 01
• Ambulance: 03

Our tips for Safe Travels:

• Get comprehensive travel insurance that covers all planned activities.
• Register  your details with us so that we can contact you quickly if there is an unforeseen crisis like a natural disaster or a family emergency.
• Follow us on twitter  @dfatravelwise  for the latest travel updates.
• Read our  ‘Know Before You Go’  guide.

As there is no Irish Embassy in Azerbaijan, we are limited in the help we can offer you in an emergency. However, if in of need assistance, please can contact the  Irish Embassy in Ankara, Türkiye .

The political situation in Azerbaijan is stable. Demonstrations occasionally take place, mainly in Baku. Opposition rallies are usually heavily policed and there has been violence on occasions. We advise in general that visitors avoid large gatherings.

We advise against travel to Nagorno-Karabakh and the area surrounding it as these areas are heavily land mined and unexploded ordinances may be encountered.

Visitors should not attempt to enter or leave Azerbaijan via the land borders with Russia (i.e. Dagestan), Iran and Georgia as these as these are closed to foreign nationals.

Anyone who has visited Nagorno-Karabakh in the past without the permission of the Azerbaijani authorities will be refused entry to Azerbaijan.

Irish citizens should always stay informed of developments by monitoring local media and staying in contact with their hotel or tour organiser. Avoid demonstrations and public gatherings, which can sometimes turn confrontational. 

There is a global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks, which could be against civilian targets, including places frequented by foreign nationals such as international hotels, restaurants and pubs. Take sensible precautions and be vigilant.

Crime rates are relatively low in Azerbaijan but occasional muggings do take place, particularly around the bars and clubs and near dimly lit entrances of private apartments. Irish citizens should take sensible precautions:

• Do not carry credit cards, travel tickets and money together - leave spare cash and valuables in a safe place.
• Leave a copy of passport photocopy (and travel and insurance documents) with family or friends at home.

Reporting crime

If an Irish citizen is a victim of a crime while in Azerbaijan, they should report it to the local police immediately. You can contact us at in the Embassy of Ireland in Ankara if you need help.

If planning to drive in Azerbaijan, should take care, especially if driving at night. Roads tend to be badly lit and of poor quality and many cars are poorly maintained. If driving bring your international driving licence and make sure you have adequate and appropriate insurance.

Hiring a vehicle

If you are hiring a vehicle, we advise not to hand over passport as a form of security. If allowing passports to be photocopied, keep them in your sight at all times.

We advise Irish citizens to always ensure that they have adequate insurance and have read the small print of the vehicle hire contract (particularly any waiver that will come into effect if the vehicle is damaged).

Be aware, most old taxis do not have seat belts.

Illegal drugs

Illegal drug use (no matter what the drug) carries stiff penalties, including fines and long prison terms.

Local culture & religion

Dress for both men and women tends to be similar to, if slightly more modest than, dress in Ireland.

Azerbaijan is a largely secular society and religion is usually considered a private matter. Most of the population is Muslim. Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times and Irish citizens should be aware of your actions to ensure that they do not offend other cultures or religious beliefs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if they intend to visit religious areas.  The Nowruz public holiday takes place in Azerbaijan in each March.

Homosexuality

Homosexual activity is legal in Azerbaijan, but public displays of affection may be frowned upon. Caution and discretion are advised at all times.

Photography

Visitors should avoid photographing sites such as military bases, equipment and installations in whatever condition. These are considered sensitive areas, and visitors have been detained and questioned while attempting to visit them.

Visitors should also be aware of cultural sensitivities when photographing mosques, churches and other religious sites. If in doubt, seek permission.

Vaccinations

Check with a doctor a minimum of eight weeks in advance of travelling to see if any vaccinations are needed for Azerbaijan.

Medical facilities

Medical facilities outside Baku are very limited. Even in Baku serious illness or injury may require evacuation to Turkey or Western Europe. Irish visitors should make sure your travel insurance covers this.

Travel Insurance

We can’t pay for emergency medical repatriation, repatriation of remains, or for expenses as a result of a personal emergency while abroad. If you buy an appropriate travel insurance policy, these costs will be covered, provided you haven’t broken the terms and conditions.

Buying comprehensive travel insurance can save a lot of money if something goes wrong. It will also ensure that you get the medical attention needed. Hospital bills can quickly run into thousands of euro, and a medical evacuation back to Ireland can cost thousands more.

Not all policies are the same, and the cheapest one might be cheap for a reason. Make sure your policy covers all the activities you plan to do on your trip. Insurance Ireland recommend that you purchase a policy that provides a minimum medical cover of €1 million.

Emergency expenses

Your policy should cover:

• All medical care abroad, including evacuation by air ambulance, or other emergency procedures, and any other costs associated with an unexpected longer stay.
• Your entire trip, from departure to return. Consider an annual multi-trip policy if making more than one trip in the year.   
• 24-hour emergency service and assistance.
• Personal liability cover (in case you are sued for causing injury or damaging property).
• Lost and stolen possessions.
• Cancellation and curtailment.
• Any extra activities you intend to do that are excluded from standard policies (e.g. water sport activities such as jet skiing or other extreme sports).

Exclusions: Most insurance policies will not cover drink or drug-related incidents.

Visas and additional information

Irish citizens need a visa to enter Azerbaijan.  You can apply online using the e-visa site at https://evisa.gov.az/en/ . Visas are valid for 90 days, and stays must not exceed 30 days in total.

Irish passports must be valid for more than 3 months after the expiry date of your Azerbaijani visa

It is advisable to take a number of photocopies with you. Irish citizens should carry their passport at all times as police often carry out identity checks. Ensure that it is kept secure and leave a photocopy of the details page separately in a safe place.

Azerbaijan is located in an active seismic zone; however, it has not experienced any serious earthquakes recently.

As Ireland does not have an Embassy or Consulate in Azerbaijan, consular assistance is provided via the Embassy of Ireland in Ankara, Turkey.

Please note that if you require assistance in the case of an emergency while the Embassy is closed, contact the main Embassy number, 00 90 312 4591000, and leave a message on the Duty Officer voice mailbox.

This mailbox will be monitored regularly. Please have an English speaker leave the initial message.

Monday to Friday 09.00 - 13.00 and 14.00 - 17.00

Embassy of Ireland, Türkiye

Get travel and medical insurance.

Before travelling, the Department strongly recommends that you obtain comprehensive travel insurance which will cover all overseas medical costs, including medical repatriation/evacuation, repatriation of remains and legal costs.

You should check any exclusions and in particular that your policy covers you for the activities you want to undertake.

@DFATravelWise

Citizens registration, travel insurance tips, contacting us.

Contact our Embassy in Türkiye for assistance

Related links

This is a prototype - your feedback will help us to improve it. Leave feedback.

What is a digital nomad visa and which countries offer them? Here's a breakdown plus the barriers for entry

Once something that seemed unattainable, the digital nomad lifestyle has become more mainstream thanks to the remote work boom in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Now more than 40 countries offer digital nomads remote work visas and they often last a year or longer.

Japan is the latest country to hop on the bandwagon.

And South Africa is set to open its doors to remote workers later this year.

Are you looking for adventurous travels while working from a laptop? Here are the countries that offer digital nomad visas and the requirements you'll need to meet for approval.

What is a digital nomad?

A digital nomad is someone who works remotely while travelling and living in various locations .

They rely on their laptop and internet connection to carry out their work responsibilities from anywhere in the world.

They don't have an office.

Instead, they work from their accommodation, local coffee shops and co-working hubs — basically anywhere with an internet connection.

What drove the rise in digital nomadism?

The pandemic . 

University of Melbourne senior lecturer in anthropology Paul Green says it changed the narrative about remote work and made digital nomadism a possibility instead of a pipedream.

"The understanding of remote work and working from anywhere became normalised as a result of lockdowns and working-from-home mandates," Mr Green told the ABC.

"Increasing numbers of companies and organisations have also driven this lifestyle trend by embracing variations of remote employment models and practices."

Why do people become digital nomads?

Mr Green says digital nomadism offers people a pathway to a seemingly idyllic lifestyle .

"It's built around positive images of life and work in some of the world's leading tourism and beach destinations," he said.

"Many are also drawn by the promise of community, of meeting like-minded individuals in popular digital nomad hubs such as Chiang Mai or various spots in Bali.

"The lifestyle is also built on a strong imagining of what has been left behind, in the form of a monotonous and mundane rat race and office work back home."

What is a digital nomad visa?

A digital nomad visa is a  permit that allows a person to work remotely in a foreign country .

The nomad's source of income usually has to be located outside the country they plan to move to.

For example, if you work for a company registered in Spain, you cannot apply for a digital nomad visa in Spain.

The visas typically have a duration of 12 months and can be extended depending on the country of issue. In some cases, a digital nomad visa can be the first step on the pathway to permanent residency.

How much does a digital nomad visa cost?

It can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to more than $3,000.

But this depends on which country you're going to.

A digital nomad visa for Barbados, for example, costs $US2,000 ($3,000).

Meanwhile, a similar visa for Spain costs 80 euros ($130).

Which countries offer digital nomad visas?

More than 40 countries offer digital nomad visas.

What are the visa requirements?

The requirements for a digital nomad visa vary from country to country.

Let's run through a few examples to give you an idea.

The data below comes from Numbeo , a website which crowdsources data to give an international picture of the cost of living.

Barbados Length: 12 months with an option to renew Application fee: $US2,000  Income to prove: $US50,000 Tax: Nomads will not be liable to pay Barbados income tax Cost of living: 8.5 per cent higher on average than in Australia Greece Length: 12 months with an option to renew Application fee: 75 euros  Income to prove: 3,500 euros gross of tax per month Tax: You become a tax-paying resident after six months of your stay (the amount depends on your monthly income bracket) Cost of living index: 25.7 per cent lower on average than in Australia Hungary Length: 12 months with an option to renew Application fee: 110 euros  Income to prove: 2,000 euros per month Tax: You become a tax-paying resident after six months of your stay (includes personal income tax and social security tax) Cost of living: 40.4 per cent lower on average than in Australia Japan Length: Maximum six months Application fee: Yet to be confirmed Income to prove: 10 million Japanese yen  Tax: Australia has a double tax agreement with Japan that guarantees that individuals and businesses do not face double taxation on their earnings in both countries Cost of living index: 31.2 per cent lower on average than in Australia

What should I think about before choosing this lifestyle?

Digital nomads select their locations based on different elements that might affect their lifestyle and job prospects.

Some of the obvious factors to consider include the ones we've highlighted above (length, cost of living, proof of income/savings).

But it doesn't stop there.

Digital nomads should also think about:

• Internet coverage and speed
• Safety — cyber, economic, and social
• Transportation infrastructure
• Language barriers
• Health insurance

Mr Green says loneliness is a key concern for many nomads .

"Friendships come and go, just as a return to a favourite destination leaves individuals having to start the process again of building a social network in place.

"In some cases, loneliness or homesickness can lead to nomads returning home.

"Some nomads also have difficulties in sharing their concerns and worries with other nomads because the lifestyle is built on collective expectations and powerful media images of this dream lifestyle built around fulfilment."

If you are drawn to the digital nomad lifestyle, Mr Green says it's important to make sure you have the "skill sets, educational background or project ideas" to transition into a sustainable life as a remote worker.

Do digital nomads have to pay tax?

It depends.

Some countries expect you to pay full tax, some have tax deductions, while others impose no taxes.

The countries with zero tax assume you still pay tax in your home country.

In Greece (which offers a one-year visa), you are exempt from paying local income tax only for the first six months.

So, for the last six months of your visa, you will be required to pay tax.

What's the difference between a digital nomad visa, a tourist visa, and a work visa?

Because all three visas serve different purposes, here are the key differences:

What is the best country for remote work?

That depends on what you're looking for.

Some digital nomads might be more interested in an adventurous experience in nature, while others might want the hustle and bustle of a big city.

Some might want to be in a place where they know no-one and have to learn a new language, while others might be more inclined to move to a place where family or friends are already living.

So it all depends on your individual circumstances.

Cybersecurity company NordLayer has come up with a global remote work index which ranks countries from the most to the least attractive based on four pragmatic criteria:

• Cyber safety
• Economic safety
• Digital and physical infrastructure
• Social safety

According to that criteria, the internet company's top five countries from last year were:

• 2. The Netherlands

However, the index doesn't take into account things such as cultural experience or scenery, which might be more important to some digital nomads.

And the top-ranked countries tend to be more expensive to live in.

• X (formerly Twitter)

Related Stories

Sick of office politics japan's new digital nomad visa may be your way out.

These Australians work remotely while travelling overseas. But are they really living the dream?

• European Union
• Travel Preparation and Advice
• Travel and Tourism (Lifestyle and Leisure)