Visitors to Azerbaijan are required to obtain a visa from one of its diplomatic missions unless they are from a visa-exempt country, eligible for an electronic visa (e-Visa), or can receive a visa on arrival. The visa policy is designed to facilitate entry for tourists, business travelers, and other visitors while maintaining the country’s security.
Visa Exemption
Citizens of the following countries can enter Azerbaijan without a visa for a specified period:
- 90 Days:
- Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russia, Serbia, Tajikistan, Turkey (with ID card), Uzbekistan.
- 30 Days:
- Iran, Lebanon, Malaysia, Qatar, United Arab Emirates.
- Special Cases:
- China (unilateral exemption from July 2024 to July 2025 for up to 30 days with three total entries).
Note: Citizens of Turkey can enter using an ID card instead of a passport.
Visa on Arrival
Citizens of certain countries can obtain a visa on arrival at any international airport in Azerbaijan, valid for a maximum stay of 30 days. Eligible countries include:
- Bahrain, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Kuwait, Malaysia, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, Macau.
The visa on arrival costs USD 30, except for Japanese nationals, who are exempt from visa fees.
e-Visa (Electronic Visa)
Azerbaijan introduced its e-Visa system in 2017, known as ASAN Viza. The e-Visa is available for tourism, business, or cultural visits and is valid for 30 days.
- Standard e-Visa: Processed within 3 working days, costs USD 20.
- Urgent e-Visa: Processed within 3 hours, costs USD 55.
Additional fee: USD 5 service charge for both types.
Eligible countries for e-Visa include all European Union member states, United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, India, China, and many others from Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
Visa Required in Advance
For citizens who are not eligible for visa-free entry, visa on arrival, or e-Visa, they must obtain a visa in advance through an Azerbaijani diplomatic mission. This includes providing:
- Completed application form
- Valid passport
- Two passport-sized photographs
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking) or an invitation letter from an Azerbaijani host for private visits.
Non-Ordinary Passports (Diplomatic, Official, Service)
Holders of diplomatic, official, or service passports from various countries can enter Azerbaijan without a visa for up to 90 days. Countries with this privilege include:
- Albania, Argentina, Brazil, China, India, Russia, Turkey, Ukraine, and many others.
Visa Facilitation
Azerbaijan has a visa facilitation agreement with the European Union (excluding Ireland), which simplifies the visa process by reducing documentation requirements, speeding up processing times, and waiving or reducing fees for certain categories of visitors.
Admission Restrictions
- Armenia: Due to the ongoing conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia, Armenian citizens and individuals of Armenian descent may be denied entry or transit. However, exceptions are sometimes made for international events.
- Kosovo: Citizens of Kosovo are denied entry and transit, even for flight transfers.
- Territorial Exclusions: Entry to certain enclaves controlled by Armenia (e.g., Karki, Yuxarı Əskipara) is forbidden without prior permission from Azerbaijan.
FAQs About Azerbaijan Visa Policy
1. Can I visit Azerbaijan without a visa?
Yes, citizens from countries such as Russia, Turkey, Kazakhstan, and Malaysia can enter without a visa for short stays (15 to 90 days depending on the country).
2. Is an e-Visa available for Azerbaijan?
Yes, the ASAN Viza system allows travelers from many countries to apply for an e-Visa online, valid for a 30-day stay.
3. Can I get a visa on arrival in Azerbaijan?
Yes, travelers from certain countries including Japan, China, Malaysia, and Saudi Arabia can obtain a visa on arrival at the airport for a stay of up to 30 days.
4. What is the cost of an e-Visa for Azerbaijan?
The standard e-Visa costs USD 20 (processed in 3 days), and the urgent visa costs USD 55 (processed in 3 hours), with an additional USD 5 service fee.
5. How long is a tourist visa valid for?
Azerbaijan tourist visas (including e-Visas and visas on arrival) are typically valid for 30 days. Some multiple-entry visas for longer stays are also available.
6. Are there any restrictions on entering Azerbaijan?
Yes, Armenian citizens and those of Armenian descent may face restrictions. Additionally, travelers who have visited disputed territories like Nagorno-Karabakh may be denied entry.
