Azerbaijan: A Digital Nomad Delight

Are you a digital nomad searching for an enchanting and lesser-known location to establish your remote office? Look no further than Azerbaijan! The country warmly welcomes freelancers, remote workers, startups, entrepreneurs, digital nomads, and students, offering an unparalleled blend of opportunities and experiences.

Does Azerbaijan offer a Digital Nomad Visa?

Yes, Azerbaijan offers a digital nomad visa, mainly known as the "ASAN Visa"

Visa Requirements

To apply for the ASAN Visa (eVisa Azerbaijan), digital nomads must meet several requirements, including having a valid passport, proof of health insurance, and a clean criminal record.

Benefits of ASAN Visa (eVisa)

One of the benefits of the ASAN Visa is that it allows digital nomads to work and live in Azerbaijan without a local sponsor or employer.

Application Process

The ASAN Visa (eVisa) application process is quite simple and can be completed entirely online, with the visa typically issued within Within 3 - 5 Days

A Hub for Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Azerbaijan's commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship creates an ideal environment for digital nomads seeking professional growth.

Startup Ecosystem

The government's initiatives to foster startup ecosystems, coupled with a blossoming tech industry, make it an opportune time to establish your remote business in this emerging market.

Co-working Spaces and Networking

Collaborative co-working spaces, incubators, and networking events abound, providing a platform for you to connect with like-minded individuals, share ideas, and work on exciting collaborations.

Support Services for Digital Nomads

To ensure a seamless digital nomad experience, a range of services is available to support your journey.

Low Competition and High Rewards

Azerbaijan’s emerging digital infrastructure and low competition make it an attractive base for digital nomads looking to build an early professional presence.

Strategic Location

Azerbaijan's strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia opens the door to international business opportunities. The country's favourable time zone allows for seamless collaboration with clients and partners across continents.

Cost of Living in Azerbaijan

The cost of living in Azerbaijan is comparatively lower than in many Western countries, making it an attractive destination for digital nomads and budget-conscious travellers. However, prices can vary depending on the region and the lifestyle you choose.

1. Accommodation
   The cost of accommodation in Azerbaijan varies by location and type of housing. In major cities like Baku, apartment rental prices can range from moderate to high, especially in central areas. However, there are also more affordable options available.
2. Food and Dining
   Eating out in Azerbaijan can be relatively affordable, especially if you opt for local eateries and street food stalls. Traditional Azerbaijani dishes are often reasonably priced, and you can enjoy a hearty meal.
3. Transportation
   Public transportation in Azerbaijan is generally affordable. Buses, metro rides, and marshrutkas (minibuses) have low fares, making it convenient and cost-effective to get around the cities.
4. Utilities and Services
   Utilities such as electricity, water, and internet services are generally affordable in Azerbaijan. However, it’s important to note that prices may vary by region and accommodation type.

Best Accommodations, Coliving, and Coworking Spaces

Accommodations

• Four Seasons Hotel Baku: Located in the heart of Baku, the Four Seasons Hotel offers luxurious rooms and suites with stunning views of the Caspian Sea.
• Hilton Baku: The Hilton Baku is a modern hotel located in the city center, offering spacious rooms and suites with panoramic views of the city.
• Sahil Hostel & Hotel: For budget-conscious digital nomads, the Sahil Hostel & Hotel offers affordable rooms and dorms in a central location in Baku.

Coliving Spaces

• The Landmark: A coliving space in the heart of Baku with private rooms and shared apartments for digital nomads. The space is an ideal choice for those seeking a community-oriented living experience.
• The House: A coworking area in Baku with a communal kitchen and an outdoor courtyard, making it an excellent option for those seeking an inspiring living environment.

Coworking Spaces

• Baku Creative Centre & the Terminal:  coworking space in the city centre offering private offices, shared workspaces, and meeting rooms for digital nomads. The space features high-speed internet and printing facilities, ideal for a productive work environment.
• The Terminal: It's an excellent coworking space with the facilities a nomad needs for a comfortable, inspiring work environment.

How to travel to Azerbaijan 

Getting to and from Azerbaijan is relatively easy, thanks to its well-connected transportation infrastructure.

By Air
The leading international gateway to Azerbaijan is Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) in Baku, which connects Azerbaijan with Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

By Land
Azerbaijan shares borders with several countries, including Russia, Georgia, Iran, Armenia, and Turkey. Land borders are limited and subject to restrictions.

By Sea
Azerbaijan has a coastline on the Caspian Sea, and ferry services connect Baku with Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, and other ports.

Internal Transportation
Once in Azerbaijan, there are various transportation options to explore the country. The country offers taxis, marshrutkas (minibuses), car rentals, trains, and domestic flights. Digital nomads can choose one of these based on their budget, needs, and preferences.

Best Places to Visit in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan is a country with a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and a vibrant modern culture.

Baku - The Capital City

Baku is a city that seamlessly blends the old and the new, with its ancient walled city and modern skyscrapers.

Gobustan National Park

The Gobustan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to thousands of ancient rock carvings and petroglyphs.

Sheki - A City in the Foothills

The city of Sheki, located in the foothills of the Caucasus Mountains, is known for its traditional architecture.

Caucasus Mountains

For nature lovers, the Caucasus Mountains offer a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and mountaineering.

Best Time to Visit Azerbaijan

The best time to visit Azerbaijan depends on your interests and preferences.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is a great time to visit Azerbaijan, especially if you’re interested in outdoor activities like hiking and exploring nature.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is the peak tourist season in Azerbaijan, with warm temperatures and long days.

Fall (September to November)

Fall is another great time to visit Azerbaijan, with mild temperatures and colourful landscapes.

Winter (December to February)

Winter is the low season in Azerbaijan, with cold temperatures and occasional snowfall.

Connecting Through Community: Digital Nomad Groups in Azerbaijan

Joining digital nomad groups and communities in Azerbaijan can enhance your experience, provide valuable support, and foster meaningful connections. Here are some ways to connect with fellow digital nomads during your stay:

1. Online Communities
   Websites like Nomad List, Reddit's digital nomad subreddit, and Facebook groups are online platforms and forums for digital nomads that let you ask questions, share experiences, and connect with others.
2. Co-Living and Co-Working Spaces
   Azerbaijan, especially Baku, offers a growing range of co-living and co-working spaces for digital nomads. Places like The Hive and Coworking Azerbaijan combine productive workspaces with networking and social events.
3. Attend Meetup Events
   Check out local Meetup groups and events for digital nomads. These gatherings offer opportunities to connect with a diverse community of people living and working in Azerbaijan.
4. Language Exchange
   Language exchange events and platforms,such as Tandem and Conversation Exchange,can connect you with Azerbaijani speakers looking to improve their English while helping you learn Azerbaijani or Russian. These exchanges often lead to friendships and cultural insights.
5. Nomadic Coworking Retreats 
   Consider joining nomadic coworking programs that occasionally take place in Azerbaijan. These organised retreats bring together digital nomads from around the world to work, travel, and explore together.

Safety in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan is generally a safe country for travellers, with a low crime rate and a stable political situation. However, as with any destination, it's essential to take certain precautions to ensure safety. Here are some key points to consider when it comes to safety in Azerbaijan:

1. Stay Observant
   It’s advisable to keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in busy areas like markets and public transportation.
2. Road Safety
   Driving in Azerbaijan can be challenging due to poor road conditions. It’s advisable to use caution when driving or crossing the street and to avoid driving at night.
3. Natural Disasters
   Azerbaijan is prone to earthquakes, especially in the northern regions. Travellers should stay up to date with the latest weather and seismic activity reports and follow the advice of local authorities in case of an emergency.
4. Health Concerns 
   Travellers should be up to date on routine vaccinations and take precautions to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses. It’s also advisable to drink bottled water and avoid street food to prevent foodborne illnesses.

Must-try Dishes and Delicacies in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijani cuisine is a delightful fusion of flavours and traditions, and trying these dishes is a must for any digital nomad exploring the country. 

• Plov: Plov is not just a dish but a cultural experience in Azerbaijan. The saffron-infused rice, tender meat, and aromatic spices create arich and hearty meal. You'll find variations of plov with different ingredients and regional twists.
• Dolma: Dolma showcases Azerbaijan's culinary expertise through its stuffed grape leaves or vegetables. The mixture of rice, minced meat, herbs, and spices creates a harmonious blend of flavours. It's often enjoyed with yoghurt, enhancing the overall taste.
• Kebab: Azerbaijani kebabs are renowned for their succulent taste and are often the highlight of meals. The combination of grilled meat, lavash, and fresh herbs is a culinary delight not to be missed.
• Dushbara: Dushbara, tiny dumplings served in flavorful broth, are comfort food at its best.