Azerbaijan Work Permit

Starting a career in Azerbaijan typically requires a work permit, and the country, with a thriving economy fueled by its rich oil and gas resources, is no exception. If you’re considering working in this diverse and economically vibrant nation, it’s essential to understand the work permit process in detail.

While the ASAN Visa system simplifies short-term entry procedures, work authorisation is governed separately and requires a work permit and, where applicable, a temporary residence permit issued by the State Migration Service of Azerbaijan.

Why is a Work Permit Needed in Azerbaijan?

Azerbaijan requires a valid work permit for foreign nationals to legally carry out paid employment within its borders. This crucial document not only enables lawful employment but also ensures compliance with Azerbaijan’s immigration and labour regulations. 

Overview of the Azerbaijan Employment Market

Azerbaijan’s economy is strongly shaped by its oil and gas sectors, attracting foreign investment. With several job opportunities in oil and gas, services, agriculture, and forestry, Azerbaijan is becoming an increasingly popular destination for foreign workers.

Categories of Works and Entry Visas for Azerbaijan

To navigate the process effectively, it is essential to understand the various types of Azerbaijan visas. These visas are issued for different purposes, and the employer plays a pivotal role in obtaining the appropriate work permit. Here are the key categories:

Tourist Visa

This visa is for foreigners seeking short-term entry into Azerbaijan for tourism purposes and cannot be extended.

• Purpose: Short-term tourism
• Extension: Not possible

Business Visa

Issued to foreigners aiming to establish business relations, including individual entrepreneurs and representatives of foreign legal entities conducting business in Azerbaijan. 

• Purpose: Establishing business relations
• Duration: Typically issued for 3 or 6 months

Science/Education Visa

Designed for individuals entering Azerbaijan to engage in scientific activities, participate in research programmes, attend conferences, seminars, or enrol in educational institutions.

Work/Employment Visa (Requirement to Obtain Work Permit)

Also known as the labour visa, it is required for individuals intending to engage in paid labour activities in Azerbaijan. This visa is issued upon invitation by an employer with a local entity in Azerbaijan.

• Purpose: Engaging in paid labour activities
• Requirement: Invitation from a local employer in Azerbaijan

Additionally, there are other visa categories like transit visas, tourism visas, diplomatic visas, personal visas, and the convenient e-visa option for online applications.

Requirements for an Azerbaijan Work Permit by Employers

Employers must fulfil specific prerequisites when applying for an Azerbaijan work permit on behalf of their foreign employees:

• Age Verification: Proof that the employee is at least 18 years old
• Local Employee Search: Demonstrate that local candidates cannot fill the position
• Necessary Documentation: Provide a reference justifying the need to hire a foreign expert
• Company Identity: Submit documents confirming the employer’s identity
• Application-Questionnaire: Submit the completed official application form
• Passport Copy: Submit a copy of the employee’s passport or other border crossing document
• Qualification Proof: Submit a notarised copy of the document confirming that the foreign employee has the required qualifications
• Medical Certificate: Submit a medical certificate showing the employee is not a carrier of infectious diseases

Requirements for an Azerbaijan Work Permit for Employees

Employees must also furnish certain documents to their employers for the Azerbaijan work permit application:

• Application Form: Complete the application form
• Valid Passport: Provide a valid passport
• Photographs: Submit recent passport-size photographs
• Work Experience: Document justifying previous work experience
• Professional Qualifications: Present notarised documents verifying professional qualifications
• Stay Documentation: Provide proof of intended stay in Azerbaijan
• Identity Information: Furnish an identity document detailing citizenship, workplace address, job profile, etc.
• Health Certificate: Include a health certificate certifying good health and the absence of contagious diseases

Azerbaijan Work Permit Application Process

The application process for an Azerbaijan work permit commences with the employer and involves the following steps:

1. Secure a Job: Get an employment contract from a company in Azerbaijan
2. Employer Applies: Your employer submits the work permit and employment visa application for you
3. Wait for Approval: The State Migration Service processes the application
4. Travel to Azerbaijan: After approval, receive your entry visa and travel to the country
5. Start Work: Finalise the work permit upon arrival, and you can legally begin your job

Timeframe for Work Permit Application

The processing time for an Azerbaijan work permit typically spans approximately 20 working days, with potential variations based on the type of work.

Work Permit Extension and Renewal

Azerbaijan Work Permit Fees

The cost of the Azerbaijan work permit visa fees is contingent on the duration of the work permit:

• Work Permit (3 months)
• Work Permit (6 months)
• Work Permit (12 months)

It is important to note that fees may vary based on factors such as the type of employment, processing requirements, and administrative considerations.