Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).
\nThe 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.
\n\nThe Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all but essential travel to:
\n\nYou should follow Azerbaijani national government and local authorities’ advice in areas that have not been cleared of mines or unexploded ordnance.
\n\nFind out more about why FCDO advises against travel.
\n\nHelp for British nationals is extremely limited in the areas where we advise against travel.
\n\nThere is a heightened risk of regional tension. Escalation could lead to travel disruption, including airspace closures and other unanticipated impacts.
\n\nBritish nationals should take sensible precautions, considering their own individual circumstances. These include:
\n\nread 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”
\nsign up to FCDO Travel Advice email alerts
\nmonitor local and international media for the latest information
\nfollow the instructions of the local authorities
\nFor information on crossing the border from Iran into Azerbaijan, see Entry requirements.
\nNo travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:
\n\nIf you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.
\n\nFCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.
\n\nSign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.
\n\nFollow FCDO:
\n\n\n\n","slug":"warnings-and-insurance","title":"Warnings and insurance "},{"body":"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.
\n\nThe 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.
\n\nThe 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.
\n\nBritish 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 will take approximately 48 hours. 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’.
\n\nIf 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.
\n\nRead more FCDO advice if you’re affected by a crisis abroad.
\nTo 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.
\n\nTo 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.
\n\nCheck with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
\n\nYou 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.
\n\nWhen returning to the UK, British citizens must carry a valid British passport or certificate of entitlement. See Dual citizenship.
\n\nAzerbaijan 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.
\n\nIf 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.
\n\nAnyone 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.
\n\nYou 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.
\n\nTo 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.
\n\nThe land borders between Iran and Azerbaijan, and Georgia and Azerbaijan are temporarily closed.
\n\nYou must have a visa to visit Azerbaijan.
\n\nIf you are travelling in connection with the Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, you will be able to obtain a visa on arrival at any international airport in Azerbaijan between 25 August and 30 September 2026. For more information, including the requirements to be able to use this service, visit the website of the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in London.
\n\nIf you are travelling for another reason, 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.
\n\nE-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.
\n\nFor 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.
\n\nYou can extend your 30 days by applying to the State Migration Service at least 3 days before the end of the permitted stay.
\n\nIf 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.
\n\nIf you are in Azerbaijan, you can also call the Migration Information Centre on 919.
\n\nIf 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.
\n\nFor details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Azerbaijan guide.
\n\nThere 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.
\n\nIf 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#.
\n\nYou 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.
\n\n","slug":"entry-requirements","title":"Entry requirements"},{"body":"This guide also has safety advice for regions of Azerbaijan.
\n\nThere 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.
\n\nUK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.
\n\nTerrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Azerbaijan.
\nTerrorism attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals, such as:
\n\nhotels, restaurants and pubs
\nenergy sector facilities
\nreligious sites and places of worship
\nshopping centres and crowded places
\nembassies and government buildings
\nsporting and cultural events
\ntransport hubs
\nStay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.
\n\nThe political situation in Azerbaijan is generally calm, but demonstrations and opposition rallies can occur.
\n\nAvoid 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.
\n\nIf you are a British journalist, make sure you are clearly identifiable.
\n\nTensions 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.
\n\nCrime 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.
\n\nThere 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.
\n\nFraudsters 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.
\n\nAzerbaijan is a largely secular society, although most of the population is Muslim. Religion is usually considered a private matter.
\n\nSome 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.
\n\nPolice sometimes carry out checks of identity documents. Carry your passport at all times. Keep a copy of the photo page in a safe place.
\n\nIn 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.
\n\nRamadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country.
\n\nMost 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.
\n\nDuring Ramadan, you should:
\n\ncheck opening hours of shops and restaurants, as these may vary
\nrespect local religious customs and traditions
\nfollow local dress codes, particularly when visiting religious sites - clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time
\nbe aware that some people may be fasting and may be more tired than usual, especially in the late afternoon and early evening
\nbe patient and considerate towards those who are observing Ramadan
\nSmoking is restricted to designated areas. You can be fined for dropping smoking-related litter. Use bins provided.
\n\nPossession 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.
\n\nAirports in Azerbaijan have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers.
\n\nBe 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.
\n\nMilitary 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.
\n\nIf 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.
\n\nUnmanned 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.
\n\nWhile 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.
\n\nHolding hands or embracing between men is usually a sign of friendship.
\n\nRead more advice for LGBT+ travellers.
\n\nIf 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.
\n\nIt is illegal to use right-hand-drive cars in Azerbaijan.
\n\nThere 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.
\n\nYou’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.
\n\nAfter 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.
\n\nIf you’re planning to hire a car, check with your car hire company for information on their requirements before you travel.
\n\nMany 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.
\n\nRoad 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.
\n\nDrink-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.
\n\nIn 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.
\n\nTry 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.
\n\nSome 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.
\n\nRide-hailing apps such as Uber and Bolt are widely available in Azerbaijan.
\n\nIf you travel by train, secure your valuables, do not leave the compartment unattended, and lock the door from the inside, if your compartment allows.
\n\nFind out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.
\n\nThere 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.
\n\n","slug":"safety-and-security","title":"Safety and security"},{"body":"This section has safety advice for regions of Azerbaijan. It only covers regions where the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has specific advice.
\n\nYou should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.
\n\nThe 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:
\n\nIt 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.
\n\nWhilst 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.
\n\nFollow 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.
\n\nThe 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.
\n\nThe 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.
\n\n","slug":"regional-risks","title":"Regional risks"},{"body":"Before you travel check that:
\n\nThis is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
\n\nCall 103 and ask for an ambulance.
\n\nContact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
\n\nAt least 8 weeks before your trip:
\n\nGo to TravelHealthPro to see what health risks you’ll face in Azerbaijan.
\n\nAltitude 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.
\n\nThe legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.
\n\nRead best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.
\n\nMedical 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.
\n\nFCDO has a list of medical providers in Azerbaijan where some staff will speak English.
\n\nRead FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.
\n\n","slug":"health","title":"Health"},{"body":"The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.
\n\nAmbulance: 103
\n\nFire: 101
\n\nPolice: 102
\n\nContact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.
\n\nFor refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.
\n\nFind out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:
\n\nFCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:
\n\nSee how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.
\n\nYou can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.
\n\nTelephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)
\n\n\n\nSign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.
\n\nFollow FCDO:
\n\n\n\nThe Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Azerbaijan on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.
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