Key Information and Travel Restrictions for Travellers to Azerbaijan

About Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan, officially the Republic of Azerbaijan, is a country surrounded by the Caspian Sea and the Caucasus Mountains. Straddling the border of Eastern Europe and Western Asia, this former Soviet Republic takes inspiration from the Persian, Russian and Turkish cultures. It is the first secular democratic Muslim-majority state where its economy has thrived through oil and natural gas exploitation. But, the tourism industry did not recover until the 2000s. In a place bigger than Ireland, you would stop by the famous crossroad Silk Road, marvel at the experimental architecture, meet mountain village artisans, savour some delicious Azeri cuisine, trek in the mighty Caucasus, see mud volcanoes, visit the remotest fortresses — or just be in awe at the huge landscape contrasts.

Quick Key Information for Travellers

• The capital of Azerbaijan is Baku, which embraces tradition and modernity. Flights reach Heydar Aliyev International Airport.
• PCR Test is a must for all countries.
• A rapid result test is not acceptable.
• Make sure you are fully vaccinated or have recovered completely before travelling.
• There is a limited number of flights to and from Baku.

Azerbaijan Travel Guidelines & Restrictions

1. Citizens and residents of Russia, Turkey, the United States, Bahrain, the UAE, Spain, Sweden, Great Britain, Israel, Hungary, Qatar, Germany, Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Malta, Denmark, Ireland, Switzerland, Canada, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Serbia, Singapore, Slovenia, Slovakia and Greece can travel to Azerbaijan by air once they meet the following conditions:

• All passengers above 18 years must possess an official document issued by the relevant country (COVID-19 passport) which indicates that he or she has completed the vaccination dose or recovered from COVID-19. Along with this, it is mandatory to submit a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before the departure of the flight. A QR code is not mandatory but can quicken
• All passengers aged 1-18 years must submit a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours before their flight.
• This does not apply to passengers younger than 1 year.

2. All travellers arriving back in Azerbaijan must demonstrate the negative PCR test within 72 hours before their flight.
3. Permanent residents, close relatives of Azerbaijani citizens and foreigners with work permits are exempt from the COVID-19 passport requirement.
4. There are test centres throughout Azerbaijan. In case you test positive for COVID-19 , you will have to stay where you are until negative. Also, seek prompt treatment from the doctors. It will be helpful if you understand beforehand what treatment your insurance covers and make arrangements for a longer stay.
5. The Operational Headquarters under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan is in close contact with the World Health Organization for containment of the pandemic. The precautionary measures that one should take to minimise the risk are:

• After the journey by flight or train, monitor your health closely for two weeks.
• Wear a mask and maintain a distance of 6 feet from others to limit the spread.
• Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand wash or sanitiser.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, mouth and face in general.
• Avoid close contact or touching 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 in the dustbin immediately.
• Seek medical attention promptly if you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing, or your symptoms do not subside.

6. It is highly prohibited to step into any mass events, crowded venues and public gathering areas. In order to contain the virus, these mass activities and events have been suspended in the country. Cinemas, theatres, and entertainment centres still remain closed.
7. Azerbaijan has imposed a partial lockdown till September 1. Most public places and services are open for the visitors to come in, relish and relax. However, you must check the news about the openings of tourist sights and hotels before booking the tickets to avoid disappointments. Some destinations are only accessible for those with COVID-19 Passport, or certificate of vaccination or immunity.
8. Land and maritime borders remain closed. You are left with the only option to travel via air on a limited number of commercial and charter flights flying to and from selected destinations. If you are on a domestic flight, you don’t need to submit documentation or get tested for COVID-19, unless entering Baku’s airport.

General Advice for Azerbaijan Travel

• Stay updated and obey all official instructions.
• Reconfirm all travel arrangements.
• Take precautionary measures as per national guidelines.
• Remain in contact with your closed ones and diplomatic representation.
• Delay travelling in case of any symptoms.

Conclusion

The travelling scene has widely changed since the outbreak of COVID-19. You must abide by the rules and complete your paperwork for a smooth travel experience. Countries may bring in fresh travel rules as a result of the new COVID variant. So, stay alert, check with your travel company and make the most of your time.