Orientation briefing in Azerbaijan

To prepare a mission or a new post: the essential context, region by region. This briefing does not replace your organisation's security briefing on arrival.

Orientation briefing: Azerbaijan1 / 16

Overview

Alert levelAdvice against all travel to parts of the countryOfficial advice updated on 23 October 2026 (FCDO)

2open jobs

2organisations hiring

0violent events in 3 months

Region: Central Asia and Caucasus

To prepare a mission or a new post: the essential context, region by region. This briefing does not replace your organisation's security briefing on arrival.

The country in its region
Orientation briefing: Azerbaijan2 / 16

Socio-political and economic situation

History and context

Azerbaijan -- a secular nation with a majority-Turkic and majority-Shia Muslim population -- was briefly independent (from 1918 to 1920) following the collapse of the Russian Empire; it was subsequently incorporated into the Soviet Union for seven decades.

Beginning in 1988, Azerbaijan and Armenia fought over the Nagorno-Karabakh region, which was populated largely by ethnic Armenians but incorporated into Soviet Azerbaijan as an autonomous oblast in the early 1920s. In the late Soviet period, an ethnic-Armenian separatist movement sought to end Azerbaijani control over the region. Fighting over Nagorno-Karabakh escalated after Armenia and Azerbaijan gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. By the time a ceasefire took effect in 1994, separatists with Armenian support controlled Nagorno‑Karabakh and seven surrounding Azerbaijani territories. After decades of cease-fire violations and sporadic flare-ups, a second sustained conflict began in 2020 when Azerbaijan tried to win back the territories it had lost in the 1990s. After significant Azerbaijani gains, Armenia returned the southern part of Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding territories to Azerbaijan. In September 2023, Azerbaijan took military action to regain the rest of Nagorno-Karabakh; after a conflict that lasted only one day, nearly the entire ethnic Armenian population of Nagorno-Karabakh fled to Armenia.

Since gaining its independence in 1991, Azerbaijan has significantly reduced the poverty rate and has directed some revenue from its oil and gas production to develop the country’s infrastructure. However, corruption remains a burden on the economy, and Western observers and members of the country’s political opposition have accused the government of authoritarianism. The country’s leadership has remained in the ALIYEV family since Heydar ALIYEV, the most highly ranked Azerbaijani member of the Communist Party during the Soviet period, became president during the first Nagorno-Karabakh War in 1993. 

Political system

presidential republic

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.

If you are a British journalist, make sure you are clearly identifiable.

Orientation briefing: Azerbaijan3 / 16

Ethnic groups, languages, religions

Ethnic groups

Azerbaijani 94.8%, other 1.8%; less than 1%: Talish, Russian, Avar, Sakhur, Tartar, Georgian, Jewish, Kurd (2019 est.)

Languages

Azerbaijani 96.1%, other 1.4%; less than 1%: Russian, Avar, Talyshi, Turkish, Tatar, Sakhur, Tat, Ukrainian, Georgian, Hebrew (2019 est.)

Religions

Muslim 97.3% (predominantly Shia), Christian 2.6%, other <0.1, unaffiliated <0.1 (2020 est.)

Country profiles: The World Factbook (CIA), public domain, last edition (2025-2026).

Orientation briefing: Azerbaijan4 / 16

Economy and society

Economic overview

upper-middle income, oil-dependent Caucasus economy; minimal economic diversification and dominance of state-owned enterprises; growth and fiscal consolidation supported by oil revenues, but risks remain from demand shocks; potential economic gains from Nagorno-Karabakh ceasefire; education investments to diversify and retain human capital

10.2 MPopulation2025

58.6 %Urban population2025

$7,411GDP per capita2025

1.4 %GDP growth2025

5.6 %Inflation2025

0 %Extreme poverty (international line)2005

5.5 %Unemployment2025

99.8 %Adult literacy2023

90.8 %Internet users2025

100 %Access to electricity2024

Refugees and displaced people

657,155internally displaced people2025

6,389refugees hosted2025

199asylum seekers2025

137,225refugees and asylum seekers from the country2025

241stateless people2025

Indicators: World Bank (CC BY 4.0); refugees and displaced people: UNHCR Refugee Data Finder. Latest available year for each figure.

Orientation briefing: Azerbaijan5 / 16

Arms bearers

Armed and security forces

Azerbaijan Armed Forces: Land Forces, Air Forces, Navy Forces, Special Forces, State Border Service, Coast GuardMinistry of Internal Affairs: Internal Troops, local police forces; Special State Protection Service (SSPS): National Guard (2025)

Designated terrorist groups

Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS); Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)/Qods Force

Informative list, to be complemented by your organisation's security analysis and NGO security forums.

Orientation briefing: Azerbaijan6 / 16

Warnings and insurance

UK government (FCDO) travel advice. Some guidance is aimed at British nationals; always follow your organisation's instructions.

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Azerbaijan-Armenia border

The border with Armenia remains closed. The FCDO advises against all travel to within 5km of the border with Armenia, due to tensions between Azerbaijan and Armenia. Note that this does not include the border of Azerbaijan’s Nakhchivan exclave with Armenia.

Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel 

South-western Azerbaijan (those regions affected by conflict in 2020 and 2023) 

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all but essential travel to: 

  • The districts (‘rayons’) of Kelbajar, Lachin, Qubadli, Zengilan, Jabrayil, Fuzuli, Khojavand, Shusha, Khojali, Khankendi, Aghdam and Tartar

You should follow Azerbaijani national government and local authorities’ advice in areas that have not been cleared of mines or unexploded ordnance.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel.

UK government support

Help for British nationals is extremely limited in the areas where we advise against travel.   

Regional escalation 

There is a heightened risk of regional tension. Escalation could lead to travel disruption, including airspace closures and other unanticipated impacts. 

British nationals should take sensible precautions, considering their own individual circumstances. These include: 

  • read if you’re affected by a crisis abroad - GOV.UK. This includes guidance on “how to prepare for a crisis” with suggestions on what you might include in your emergency supplies and “what to do in a crisis” 

  • sign up to FCDO Travel Advice email alerts 

  • monitor local and international media for the latest information 

  • follow the instructions of the local authorities 

For information on crossing the border from Iran into Azerbaijan, see Entry requirements.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

Get travel advice updates

Sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Follow  FCDO: 

Orientation briefing: Azerbaijan7 / 16

Recent security

Organised violence events recorded by UCDP, July – September 2026.

No organised violence event recorded in the country over this period.

AbşeronAğcabədiAğdamAğdaşAğstafaAğsuAstaraBabəkBakıBalakənBeyləqanBərdəBiləsuvarCəbrayılCəlilabadCulfaDaşkəsənDəvəçiFüzuliGədəbəyGəncəGoranboyGöyçayHajigabulİmişliİsmayıllıKangarliKəlbəcərKürdəmirLankaranLankaranLankaranLerikMasallıMingəçevirNaftalanNaxçıvanNeftçalaOğuzOrdubadQaxQazaxQəbələQobustanQubaQubadliQusarSaatlıSabirabadŞahbuzSalyanŞamaxıSamuxSədərəkŞəkiŞəkiŞəmkirŞərurShirvanSiyəzənStepanakertSumqayıtŞuşaŞuşaTərtərTovuzUcarXaçmazXanlarXizıXocalıXocavəndYardımlıYevlakhYevlakh RayonZaqatalaZəngilanZərdab
Orientation briefing: Azerbaijan8 / 16

Safety and security

This guide also has safety advice for regions of Azerbaijan.

Terrorism

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 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

Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Azerbaijan.

Terrorism attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals, such as: 

  • hotels, restaurants and pubs 

  • energy sector facilities 

  • religious sites and places of worship 

  • shopping centres and crowded places 

  • embassies and government buildings 

  • sporting and cultural events 

  • transport hubs 

Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

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.

If you are a British journalist, make sure you are clearly identifiable.

  Armenia-Azerbaijan tensions  

Tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan have calmed and the risk of further conflict has decreased, including in the areas of those regions affected by conflict in 2020 and 2023. The FCDO continues to advise against all but essential travel to some areas in south-western Azerbaijan due to the risks from mines or unexploded ordnance from former conflict, and advises against all travel within 5km of the border with Armenia. See Regional Risks.

Crime

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.

Dealing with officials

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.

Bank card fraud  

Fraudsters can steal your card details without you noticing. Take extra care to guard against card skimming when using credit cards or withdrawing cash from ATMs. Use ATMs inside banks where possible, check street ATMs for signs of tampering, and always keep your card in sight when paying in shops and restaurants.

Laws and cultural differences

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

Some areas, such as Martyrs’ Alley, are especially sensitive. Disruptive or disrespectful conduct in or around such area may result in police action, including fines or being summoned to the police station.

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.

Dress code

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 on, and you may receive unwelcome attention.

Ramadan  

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country.

Most restaurants, cafés, shops and other services in Azerbaijan continue to operate during Ramadan. Some businesses may adjust their opening hours or offer special Ramadan arrangements.

During Ramadan, you should:

  • check opening hours of shops and restaurants, as these may vary

  • respect local religious customs and traditions

  • follow local dress codes, particularly when visiting religious sites - clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time

  • be aware that some people may be fasting and may be more tired than usual, especially in the late afternoon and early evening

  • be patient and considerate towards those who are observing Ramadan

Smoking restrictions 

Smoking is restricted to designated areas. You can be fined for dropping smoking-related litter. Use bins provided.

Illegal drugs

Possession or use of illegal drugs, including cannabis, carries severe penalties. You should expect a long jail sentence and heavy fines for possessing, using, or smuggling illegal drugs, including when transiting through the airport.

Airports in Azerbaijan have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers.

Using cameras and drones in sensitive locations

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.

If you do not have temporary or permanent residence rights in Azerbaijan, you are not allowed to import drones. Any drones will be confiscated by the State Customs Office at the port or border and returned upon departure. 

Unmanned drones cannot be rented to individuals without a valid taxpayer identification number (TIN). If you have a TIN, special permission from the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport is required. Manned drones can be rented without requiring permission.

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.

It is illegal to use right-hand-drive cars in Azerbaijan.

Inter-country road travel 

There may be delays in transporting vehicles to Azerbaijan. It is best not to pay for non-refundable  onward travel. Azerbaijan Caspian Shipping Closed Joint-Stock Company has details of onward shipment from Baku to Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan.

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.

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.

If you’re planning to hire a car, check with your car hire company for information on their requirements before you travel.

Driving 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.

Taxis

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 firm or taxi app.

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

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

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.

Orientation briefing: Azerbaijan9 / 16

Regional risks

This section has safety advice for regions of Azerbaijan. It only covers regions where the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has specific advice.

You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.

South-western Azerbaijan (those regions affected by conflict in 2020 and 2023) 

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all but essential travel to some areas in south-western Azerbaijan, including districts in and around the region formerly known as “Nagorno-Karabakh” due to the risks from leftover military equipment and weapons from former conflict. This includes: 

  • the districts (‘rayons’) of Kelbajar, Lachin, Qubadli, Zengilan, Jabrayil, Fuzuli, Khojavand, Shusha, Khojali, Khankendi, Aghdam and Tartar

It is illegal to enter certain areas in south-western Azerbaijan, without the permission of the Azerbaijani authorities. Anyone who has previously visited these areas, including the town of Khankendi, without the permission of Azerbaijani authorities could be denied entry to Azerbaijan. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Azerbaijan before you travel. 

Whilst tensions have calmed and the risk of further conflict has decreased, there remains a risk of unexploded weapons and landmines in south-western Azerbaijan. The Azerbaijani authorities are working to remove unexploded weapons and landmines.  

Follow Azerbaijani national government and local authorities’ advice in areas that have not been cleared of mines or unexploded ordnance. If you come across an unexploded weapon or landmine do not approach it or touch it. Make a note of where you saw it and notify the authorities on 102 or 112. Beware of more unexploded weapons or landmines nearby.

Azerbaijan-Armenia border

The border with Armenia remains closed. The FCDO also advises against all travel to within 5km of the rest of the border with Armenia. Note that this does not include the border of Azerbaijan’s Nakhchivan exclave with Armenia.

Azerbaijan-Russia border

The land border between Azerbaijan and Russia (Dagestan) is closed. The FCDO continues to advise against all travel to Russia. For further details, see FCDO’s travel advice for Russia.

Orientation briefing: Azerbaijan10 / 16

Health

Health indicators

74.6yearsLife expectancy2024

17.9per 1,000 live birthsUnder-5 mortality2024

18per 100,000 live birthsMaternal mortality2023

0per 1,000 people at riskMalaria (new cases)2023

3.19per 1,000 peoplePhysicians2022

97.7 %Basic drinking water access2024

Health risks and precautions (official advice)

Before you travel check that:

  • your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
  • you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 103 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

Go to TravelHealthPro to see what health risks you’ll face in Azerbaijan.

Altitude sickness is a risk in some parts of Azerbaijan, including the ski resorts of Shahdag and Tufangdag in the Gusar district, Lake Batabat in Nakhchivan, and the Talysh mountains. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro. 

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Healthcare facilities in Azerbaijan

Medical facilities outside Baku are very limited. Carry a comprehensive first aid kit for any trips out of Baku. Even in Baku, serious illness or injury may require evacuation to Turkey or Western Europe. Make sure you have appropriate travel health insurance.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Azerbaijan where some staff will speak English.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.

Orientation briefing: Azerbaijan11 / 16

Entry and visas

For other nationalities:
  • Visa-free (20): Albania, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, China, Georgia, Hong Kong, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Malaysia, Moldova, Montenegro, Morocco, Qatar, Russia, Serbia, Tajikistan, Türkiye, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan
  • Visa on arrival (9): Bahrain, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea
  • E-visa to apply for online before travel (63): Algeria, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Barbados, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Djibouti, Ecuador, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Honduras, Hungary, India, Iran, Ireland, Italy, Jamaica, Jordan, Luxembourg, Maldives, Mauritius, Mexico, Mongolia, Nepal, Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Pakistan, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Seychelles, Slovakia, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, Turkmenistan, United Kingdom, United States, Viet Nam
  • Visa to apply for at the embassy before travel (78): Afghanistan, Angola, Bangladesh, Benin, Bhutan, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Cambodia, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Comoros, Congo, Côte d'Ivoire, Dominican Republic, DR Congo, Egypt, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Fiji, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana, Haiti, Iraq, Kenya, Kiribati, Kosovo, Laos, Lebanon, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, North Korea, Palestine, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Rwanda, Samoa, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Suriname, Syria, Tanzania, Timor-Leste, Togo, Tonga, Tunisia, Uganda, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Venezuela, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe
  • Entry currently not permitted (1): Armenia

Passport Index Data (passportindex.org), MIT licence. Indicative, for a tourist stay; always check with the embassy or consulate. (17 February 2026)

Work visa and humanitarian permit

  • A tourist visa does not allow you to work: your organisation usually applies for a work or mission visa, with an invitation letter and the NGO's registration with the authorities.
  • It often takes several weeks: have a passport valid for at least 6 months, photos, diplomas, contract and international vaccination certificate ready.
  • United Nations staff travel on the laissez-passer with an official visa requested by the agency.
Detailed entry requirements (FCDO, for British travellers)

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Azerbaijan’s current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Azerbaijan set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Azerbaijani Embassy in the UK.

Entering Azerbaijan across the land border from Iran   

The border between Azerbaijan and Iran is closed. But British nationals might be able to cross at the Astara border crossing with special authorisation from the Government of Azerbaijan, which must be facilitated by the British Embassy in Baku. British nationals seeking entry into Azerbaijan should contact the FCDO before travelling to the border crossing at Astara, indicating whether you are contacting from Iran or from the UK on behalf of a relative. Other border crossings to Azerbaijan remain closed.   

British nationals will need to provide personal details (name, date of birth, passport information). The British Embassy will provide confirmation and a code from the Azerbaijani authorities. This can take several weeks. You should not travel to the border until you have received confirmation. You will need to show the code before crossing. You will also need to apply for a visa through the normal process. See ‘applying for a visa’.   

If you intend to leave Iran overland, you do so at your own risk. In Iran, holding a British passport or having perceived connections to the UK can be reason enough for the Iranian authorities to detain you.   

Read more FCDO advice if you’re affected by a crisis abroad.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Azerbaijan as a visitor, your passport must usually have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive and at least 2 blank pages for entry stamps. See ‘visa requirements’ for more details. 

To enter Azerbaijan as a resident, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the expiry date of your temporary or permanent residence permit.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

If you need to travel on a UK Emergency Travel Document, check the visa requirements below before making your travel arrangements.

Dual nationals

When returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. See Dual citizenship.

British-Azerbaijani dual nationals

Azerbaijan does not recognise dual nationality, but does not prohibit Azerbaijani nationals from holding dual nationality. You must inform the local Azerbaijani Embassy or State Migration Service within one month of taking up another nationality. If you do not, this can impact the level of consular support FCDO will be able to provide.

If you’re a British passport holder with links to Azerbaijan, through birth or otherwise, and need to check your nationality status, contact the State Migration Service before you travel.

Checks at border control

Anyone who has previously visited certain areas in south-western Azerbaijan, including the town of Khankendi, without the permission of the Azerbaijani authorities could be denied entry to Azerbaijan. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Azerbaijan before you travel. See Regional Risks.

Entry via land or sea borders 

You can only enter Azerbaijan via air travel without restrictions. Entry via a land or sea border is restricted. Once in Azerbaijan you can exit via air or sea routes. If you want to leave Azerbaijan by road, you need permission from the authorities.

Entering with a vehicle 

To enter Azerbaijan with a vehicle, you need to arrange for the vehicle to be shipped to Baku, where you have to arrange for collection at Customs. You need to provide Power of Attorney and pay fees as required.

Borders with Iran and Georgia

The land borders between Iran and Azerbaijan, and Georgia and Azerbaijan are temporarily closed.

Visa requirements

You must have a visa to visit Azerbaijan.

Applying for a visa

You can apply and pay for a visa from the ASAN Visa (e-visa) service. Apply at least 3 days in advance. An urgent 3-hour service is available for an additional fee.

E-visas are normally single entry and allow a 30-day visit within a 90-day period of validity. You must print out the e-visa and bring it with your passport to show on arrival. Officials will check that your passport is valid for 3 months after the visa expiry date. This means your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the date you arrive in Azerbaijan.

For other types of visas, such as a business visa or a work permit, contact the Azerbaijani Embassy in the UK at least one month before your travel date.

FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival 2026 

If you are travelling to Azerbaijan for the FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival 2026, simplified visa arrangements are in place from 22 September to 5 November 2026. Eligible travellers can obtain a visa on arrival at Azerbaijan’s international airports. You must have either an official invitation letter from the Association of Football Federations of Azerbaijan (AFFA) or confirmation of accreditation through FIFA’s electronic registration system. 

Travelling on a UK Emergency Travel Document 

Azerbaijan accepts UK Emergency Travel Documents (ETDs) for entry and must be accompanied by a visa to enter Azerbaijan. You cannot use a UK ETD to apply for an Azerbaijani e-visa, as the e-visa system does not recognise ETDs as eligible travel documents. If you are travelling on a UK ETD, you must apply for a visa directly through an Azerbaijani embassy before you travel. Contact the Azerbaijani Embassy in the country where you are applying for advice on the application process and processing times.

Extending your visa

You can extend your 30 days by applying to the State Migration Service at least 3 days before the end of the permitted stay.

If you overstay your visa without permission, you may have to leave the country within 48 hours. Contact the State Migration Service as soon as possible. They can issue a letter giving you permission to leave. You will have to pay a fine of 300 to 400 Azerbaijani manat. Make sure you get a receipt as proof of payment.

If you are in Azerbaijan, you can also call the Migration Information Centre on 919.

Registering with the authorities

If you’re staying in Azerbaijan for longer than 15 days, you must register with the State Migration Service online or in person. If you do not register you will have to pay a fine to the State Migration Service before you are able to leave the country. Hotels often provide this service for their guests, but you must do it yourself if you are staying in an apartment or private residence.

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Azerbaijan guide.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Azerbaijan. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. Follow advice from your airline about items you should declare.

If you plan to use a local SIM card for more than 30 days, you must register it and pay a fee at a local post office. If you do not declare your device or register your sim card, it may not work on local networks and your device could be locked. You will need to give the IMEI number of your mobile, which you can find in settings, or by dialling *#06#.

Exporting carpets and antiques

You need an export certificate to take antiques or art like carpets, samovars, copperware or paintings out of Azerbaijan. Your vendor will give you a certificate, or they are available from the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum.  

Orientation briefing: Azerbaijan12 / 16

Humanitarian coordination

Before you arrive, register with the coordination bodies: they share alerts, cluster meetings and useful contacts.

Clusters: health, nutrition, protection, WASH, food security, shelter, education, logistics, emergency telecommunications and CCCM. OCHA publishes their meetings and contacts in each country where they are activated.

Orientation briefing: Azerbaijan13 / 16

Humanitarians on the ground

Organisations hiring in the country, based on open jobs on the site:

ONU Femmes · 1ONU · 1

See jobs in AzerbaijanFunding ↗Tenders ↗Train in field security

Orientation briefing: Azerbaijan14 / 16

Region by region

Violence over the last 3 months, jobs and passages of official advice that mention the region.

Füzuli

No organised violence recorded over the period.

What official advice says

The districts (‘rayons’) of Kelbajar, Lachin, Qubadli, Zengilan, Jabrayil, Fuzuli, Khojavand, Shusha, Khojali, Khankendi, Aghdam and Tartar

the districts (‘rayons’) of Kelbajar, Lachin, Qubadli, Zengilan, Jabrayil, Fuzuli, Khojavand, Shusha, Khojali, Khankendi, Aghdam and Tartar

Qubadli

No organised violence recorded over the period.

What official advice says

The districts (‘rayons’) of Kelbajar, Lachin, Qubadli, Zengilan, Jabrayil, Fuzuli, Khojavand, Shusha, Khojali, Khankendi, Aghdam and Tartar

the districts (‘rayons’) of Kelbajar, Lachin, Qubadli, Zengilan, Jabrayil, Fuzuli, Khojavand, Shusha, Khojali, Khankendi, Aghdam and Tartar

Astara

No organised violence recorded over the period.

What official advice says

The border between Azerbaijan and Iran is closed. But British nationals might be able to cross at the Astara border crossing with special authorisation from the Government of Azerbaijan, which must be facilitated by the British Embassy in Baku. British nationals seeking entry into Azerbaijan should contact the FCDO before travelling to the border crossing at Astara, indicating whether you are contacting from Iran or from the UK on behalf of a relative. Other border crossings to Azerbaijan remain closed.

Abşeron

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Ağcabədi

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Ağdam

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Ağdaş

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Ağstafa

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Ağsu

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Babək

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Bakı

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Balakən

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Beyləqan

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Bərdə

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Biləsuvar

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Cəbrayıl

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Cəlilabad

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Culfa

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Daşkəsən

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Dəvəçi

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Gədəbəy

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Gəncə

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Goranboy

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Göyçay

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Hajigabul

No organised violence recorded over the period.

İmişli

No organised violence recorded over the period.

İsmayıllı

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Kangarli

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Kəlbəcər

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Kürdəmir

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Lankaran

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Lerik

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Masallı

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Mingəçevir

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Naftalan

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Naxçıvan

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Neftçala

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Oğuz

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Ordubad

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Qax

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Qazax

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Qəbələ

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Qobustan

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Quba

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Qusar

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Saatlı

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Sabirabad

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Şahbuz

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Salyan

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Şamaxı

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Samux

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Sədərək

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Şəki

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Şəmkir

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Şərur

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Shirvan

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Siyəzən

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Stepanakert

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Sumqayıt

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Şuşa

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Tərtər

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Tovuz

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Ucar

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Xaçmaz

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Xanlar

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Xizı

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Xocalı

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Xocavənd

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Yardımlı

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Yevlakh

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Yevlakh Rayon

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Zaqatala

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Zəngilan

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Zərdab

No organised violence recorded over the period.

Orientation briefing: Azerbaijan15 / 16

Arrival checklist

  1. Before departure: read the country security plan and your organisation's procedures (SOPs).
  2. Check your health, repatriation and evacuation insurance for this country, including conflict areas.
  3. Vaccines and prevention: yellow fever, malaria and other risks, with a travel health clinic.
  4. Documents: passport valid for at least 6 months, visa or permit, paper and digital copies, ID photos.
  5. On arrival: briefing with the security focal point, register your contact details, get the emergency contact list.
  6. Communications: local phone, radio or satellite phone, call sign and check-in procedure.
  7. Movements: movement rules, curfew, no-go areas, mission authorisations and convoys.
  8. Contingency plan: assembly points, hibernation, relocation, evacuation and a ready grab bag.
  9. Health on site: referral medical facilities, first aid kit, safe drinking water.
  10. Culture: dress, greetings, photos (always ask consent, avoid sensitive sites), relations with the authorities.
  11. Coordination: NGO forum, cluster meetings, humanitarian access and civil-military coordination.
  12. Wellbeing: rest, stress management, psychosocial support offered by your organisation.
Orientation briefing: Azerbaijan16 / 16

Sources and disclaimer

This briefing gathers public information to prepare a mission. It does not replace your organisation's security analysis, your security focal point's instructions or the country's authorities.

  • Travel advice: FCDO, GOV.UK, contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0; layout by Humanitaires Jobs, not affiliated with the UK government.
  • Violence: UCDP Candidate Events Dataset v26.0.9, Uppsala University, CC BY 4.0 licence; provisional data, country and region figures calculated by Humanitaires Jobs.
  • Visas: Passport Index Data, MIT licence.
  • Indicators: World Bank (CC BY 4.0); refugees and displaced people: UNHCR Refugee Data Finder. Latest available year for each figure.
  • Country profiles: The World Factbook (CIA), public domain, last edition (2025-2026).