Azerbaijan Country Information
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At AARDY we provide our customers with country specific information from the US State Department and the CIA. To give our customers a more rounded view on their destination country, we also provide country specific information from other trusted nations, such as Australia and the United Kingdom.
Travel Advice with Country Information from the Australian Smart Traveler Website
The following Azerbaijan Information should help you make the most of your trip to Azerbaijan.
Note: Always check that your destination country is one approved for travel by your travel insurance provider.
Latest update
Latest update: You no longer require a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test to enter Azerbaijan. The special quarantine regime has been extended until May 2022. Land border crossings remain closed. Australian citizens and residence permit holders can only enter and exit Azerbaijan by air. There are currently no restrictions on travel within Azerbaijan.
We advise:
Exercise a high degree of caution in Azerbaijan overall due to the impacts of COVID-19.
Higher levels apply in some areas.
Advice levels
Exercise a high degree of caution
Exercise a high degree of caution in Azerbaijan overall due to the impacts of COVID-19.
Do not travel to:
- Armenia-Azerbaijan border areas due to the risk of regular armed clashes
- Nagorno-Karabakh and surrounding military-occupied areas due to the risks of regular armed clashes and unmarked landmines
See Safety
Overview
Health advice due to COVID-19 is continually changing. Rules and restrictions to prevent outbreaks can change quickly. It’s important to regularly check the rules in the destinations you’re travelling to and transiting through.
Read our global health advisory and step-by-step guide to travel during COVID-19 for more information.
Safety
- A ceasefire agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan was signed on 10 November 2020 following military clashes in Nagorno-Karabakh and surrounding areas. However, tensions remain. Monitor local developments and announcements closely.
- 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 crime, including home burglaries, robbery and assault. Be alert when walking after dark, including near hotels and in residential areas. Don't use unofficial taxis. Don't use ATMs on the street.
- Food and drink spiking occurs in bars and nightclubs in Baku. Don't leave your food or drinks unattended.
- Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can happen. Take care at outdoor markets and on public transport. Thieves may pose as police officers and demand money.
Full travel advice: Safety
Health
- COVID-19 remains a risk in Azerbaijan. If you have symptoms, you may be placed in mandatory quarantine in a designated government facility. Comply with local measures in place to limit the spread of COVID-19.
- Medical facilities are adequate in private hospitals in Baku but these may be under pressure due to COVID-19. Services in government hospitals and in rural areas are often limited.
- If you're seriously ill or injured, you may require need medical evacuation to Turkey 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.
- HIV/AIDS is common. Take precautions if you engage in high-risk activities.
- 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
Local laws
- Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include long prison sentences and heavy fines.
- 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 if you're buying antiques or cultural artefacts. It's also 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
Travel
- Australian citizens and residence permit holders can enter and exit Azerbaijan by air. Land border crossings remain closed and entry is only possible by air.
- There are currently no restrictions on travel within Azerbaijan. Most businesses and services are open including restaurants, cafes, and shopping malls but may require a ‘COVID-19 Passport’ for entry.
- Wearing face masks outdoors is no longer mandatory. The wearing of masks indoors and on public transport remains mandatory. Failure to follow mask-wearing rules could incur a fine.
- Restrictions in place due to COVID-19 may change at short notice. Follow the local media and local authority’s advice for the latest updates.
- The Asan Visa (e-Visa) service is open only to citizens and residents of countries permitted to enter Azerbaijan.
- Azerbaijani domestic airlines may not meet international maintenance and safety standards. They can also be overcrowded and overbooked. Cancellations and delays are common.
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 Turkey.
- You can also get limited consular assistance from the British Embassy in Baku. They can't provide notarial services or issue Australian passports.
- Be aware consular services may be limited due to local measures in place to curb the spread of COVID-19.
Full travel advice: Local contacts
Full advice
Safety
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:
Conflict zones
A ceasefire agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan was signed on 10 November 2020 following military clashes in Nagorno-Karabakh and surrounding areas. However, tensions remain. Monitor local developments and announcements closely.
We recommend you do not travel to Armenia-Azerbaijan border areas or Nagorno-Karabakh and surrounding military-occupied areas.
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.
Crime
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, such as banks, shops and shopping centres. Avoid ATMs that open onto the street, especially at night.
Terrorism
On 24 October 2020 the US Government warned of credible reports of potential terrorist attacks and kidnappings against foreign nationals in Baku, including against hotels such as the JW Marriott Absheron, as well as potentially other locations in Baku. Exercise heightened caution in locations where foreigners may gather.
To stay safe:
- be aware in places know to be possible targets
- report suspicious activities or items to 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.
More information:
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
- follow the advice of local authorities
Register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System to receive alerts on major disasters.
Health
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 1000s of dollars up-front for medical care.
Confirm:
- 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. Consider whether you may be in a vulnerable category for COVID-19.
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.
More information:
- General health advice
- Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)
- COVID-19 (Department of Health)
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 medicine is
- how much you'll take
- that it's for personal use
More information:
Health risks
COVID-19
COVID-19 remains a risk in Azerbaijan, with continuing community transmission. Critical care for Australians who become seriously ill is likely to be significantly below the standards available in Australia. Follow the advice of local authorities and minimise your risk of exposure to COVID-19.
For information on Azerbaijan's COVID−19 vaccination program, refer to the website of the State Agency of Mandatory Health Insurance. You should consult your local health professional for advice on vaccine options, including assistance that may be available locally. The Australian Government cannot provide advice on the safety, quality and efficacy of vaccines that have been approved for use outside of Australia's regulatory process.
More information:
- Coronavirus (COVID-19) (Department of Health)
- Coronavirus (COVID-19)
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
Measles
Azerbaijan is currently experiencing an outbreak of measles. Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date before you travel.
More information:
HIV/AIDS
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:
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.
More information:
Medical care
Medical facilities
Medical facilities are adequate in private hospitals in Baku but these may be under pressure due to COVID-19.
Services in government hospitals and in other areas of the country are often limited. Shortages of basic medical supplies are common.
Serious illness or injury may require evacuation to Turkey 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.
Local laws
Local law
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.
Drugs
Penalties for drug offences are severe. They can include long prison sentences and heavy fines.
More information:
Other laws
Always carry a copy of your passport and visa. Routine police checks in public and tourist spots are common.
If you don't show a valid travel document when asked, you could be fined or jailed.
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.
More information:
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.
More information:
Local customs
Cultural dates and events
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.
More information:
Travel
Visas
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, including COVID-19 vaccinations and tests, 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) for single entry, 30-day stays. You can do this online through Azerbaijan's State Agency for Public Service and Social Innovations. 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.
Make sure your passport is valid for at least 3 months before 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 processed. The Ministry of Interior Police may ask to see your documents at any time. See Local laws
More information:
COVID-19
Entry into Azerbaijan
There are a limited number of commercial flights to and from Baku. Land border crossings remain closed and entry is only possible by air. Australian citizens and residence permit holders can enter and exit Azerbaijan by air. A complete list of countries whose citizens may currently enter Azerbaijan can be seen here.
If you're over 18, you must submit an official document confirming full vaccination against COVID-19 or immunity to COVID-19 (a ‘COVID-19 Passport’).
If you hold temporary or permanent residency in Azerbaijan, you may be exempt from the requirement to provide a ‘COVID-19 passport’ to re-enter Azerbaijan but will still need a negative COVID-19 (PCR) test.
Departing Azerbaijan
Limited departure flight options are available. For the latest information on flights travelling to and from Azerbaijan, check with airlines directly.
Staying in Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan has announced that the special quarantine regime has been extended until May 2022.
There are currently no restrictions on travel within Azerbaijan. Most businesses and services are open including restaurants, cafes, and shopping malls. Almost all public places are only accessible for those with a ‘COVID-19 Passport’ showing proof of vaccination or immunity. This includes restaurants, cafes, shopping centres, hotels, hairdressers and beauty salons, and most public and private events.
Wearing face masks outdoors is no longer mandatory. Wearing face masks indoors and on public transport remains mandatory. Failure to follow mask-wearing rules could incur a fine.
The Baku Metro and public transport services within Baku are running as normal. You may be required to demonstrate having received at least two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine for inter-city travel.
Restrictions in place due to COVID-19 may change at short notice. Follow the local media, or Australian Embassy in Ankara on social media, and the local authority’s advice for the latest updates.
The Asan Visa (e-Visa) service is open only to citizens and residents of countries permitted to enter Azerbaijan.
If you're staying in Azerbaijan:
- Follow the advice of local authorities
- Take care to protect yourself from exposure to COVID-19
- Ensure you have arrangements in place for an extended stay
- Keep in contact with family and friends so they know you're safe and well.
Other formalities
The following information may not apply while COVID-19 travel restrictions are in place.
Registering with the police
If you plan to stay in Azerbaijan for over 15 days, you must register with local police. Do this within 15 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 planning to travel 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.
Passport
Validity
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.
Money
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.
You may also need an International Driving Permit (IDP) for your 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 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.
More information:
Taxis
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.
If you need a taxi when away from your hotel, 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.
More information:
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
Air travel
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.
More information:
Local contacts
Emergencies
Depending on what you need, contact your:
- family and friends
- travel agent
- insurance provider
- employer
- airline
Fire and rescue services
Call 101.
Medical emergencies
Cal 103.
Police
Call 102.
Call 112 for the emergency hotline.
For English-speaking staff, call 590 9966.
Always get a police report when you report a crime.
Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.
Tourism
Contact your service provider with complaints about tourist services or products.
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: consular.ankara@dfat.gov.au
Facebook: Australia in Turkiye
Twitter: @AusAmbTurkiye
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
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