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Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.
Exercise increased caution in Azerbaijan due to terrorism. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.
Do not travel to:
Country Summary: Terrorist groups continue to plan attacks and are a risk in Azerbaijan. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning. They may target:
Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Azerbaijan.
If you decide to travel to Azerbaijan:
Level 4: Do Not Travel - Border with Armenia
There is the potential for fighting along the Azerbaijan-Armenia border. U.S. citizens should avoid the area.
Exercise caution on roads near Azerbaijan’s border with Armenia:
Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
Level 4: Do Not Travel - Former Soviet-era Nagorno Karabakh Autonomous Oblast and surrounding territories
Following armed hostilities in 2023, the former Soviet-era Nagorno Karabakh Autonomous Oblast and surrounding territories are under the control of Azerbaijan. Despite the cessation of fighting, the dangers posed by landmine contamination continue. Due to the risks, the U.S. government is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in the former Soviet-era Nagorno Karabakh Autonomous Oblast and surrounding territories, because U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling there and Azerbaijan restricts access to the region.
Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.
6 months
1 page per stamp.
Yes
None
You must declare any amount of foreign currency upon arrival.
You may depart with up to $10,000 undeclared, or up to $50,000 or equivalent if you provide documents showing you declared the amount to customs upon arrival.
111 Azadliq Prospekti
AZ1007 Baku, Azerbaijan
Telephone: +994-12-488-3300
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +994-12-488-3300
Fax: +994-12-488-3695
Email: BakuACS@state.gov
See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet Azerbaijan for information on U.S.-Azerbaijan relations.
You need a passport and a visa to enter Azerbaijan. Acquire a visa that covers the dates of your trip before you go. Visit the Embassy of Azerbaijan’s website for the most current visa information.
Land Borders: Entry into Azerbaijan is possible only by air. Foreigners are permitted to exit by land and sea.
HIV/AIDS Restrictions: Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors to and foreign residents of Azerbaijan. Medical tests at designated clinics in Azerbaijan are required for those applying for temporary or permanent residence permits. Please verify this information with the Embassy of Azerbaijan before you travel. Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.
Human Rights Concerns: Be aware of ongoing human rights concerns in Azerbaijan, including reports of arbitrary arrests, restrictions on freedom of expression, and mistreatment of detainees. Journalists and activists may face harassment and imprisonment. Stay informed about local laws and respect local customs to avoid any legal issues. For more detailed information, please refer to the U.S. State Department's Travel Advisory for Azerbaijan.
Terrorism: Terrorist groups and individuals inspired by them want to attack U.S. citizens outside of the United States. They are using simpler methods of attack like knives, guns, and vehicles to target crowds. They often go after unprotected or vulnerable targets.
The former Soviet-era Nagorno Karabakh Autonomous Oblast and surrounding territories and Armenia Border Areas:
U.S. citizens of Armenian descent may encounter anti-Armenian sentiments in Azerbaijan.
Crime: Crime is relatively low and violent crime is infrequent. Most reported crimes involve burglary, assault, or petty crime such as pickpocketing.
International Financial Scams: Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Azerbaijan. Review the Department of State’s Protecting Yourself from Scams and the FBI pages for information.
Be careful when using dating apps or online dating websites while abroad. Scammers may target U.S. citizens. There are reports of scams related to fraudulent real estate deals, licensing requirements, and travel advertisements. Tell your friends and family where you are, meet in a popular public place, and avoid consuming suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.
Demonstrations are rare but may be suppressed with force when they occur. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on politically significant holidays and during international events.
Technology Usage Abroad: Mobile devices can be compromised, stolen, or damaged anywhere in the world. Before traveling abroad, it is best to keep all software (operating system and apps) updated. If possible, use a virtual private network (VPN) and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi.
GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. GPS navigation apps may give you the shortest route without safety consideration.
Victims of Crime: Report crimes to the local police at 102 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +994-12-488-3300. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.
We can:
Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance. Local resources for victims of domestic violence include shelters, medical assistance, and legal aid. Victims of domestic violence may dial 860 (or 012-860 outside of Baku) or email office@scfwca.gov.az to reach the State Committee for Family, Women, and Children Affairs hotline.
Tourism: The tourism industry is not well regulated. Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare. Dangerous areas/activities are not always labeled properly. Staff may not be trained or certified by the host government or recognized authorities. If you get injured, you will likely only find appropriate medical treatment in or near Baku. First responders cannot reach areas outside major cities to provide urgent medical care. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. Review our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.
Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you break local laws, even if you don't know it, you can be kicked out of the area, arrested, or put in prison. If you want to start a business or work in a job that needs special permits or licenses, you should get information from the local authorities before you start
Furthermore, some crimes are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.
Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. There are often delays in consular notification after arrests of U.S. citizens in Azerbaijan. See our webpage for further information.
Restrictions on Photography: It is illegal to take photographs of military installations and equipment. Police may stop you even if you take photographs of non-military sites, like oil fields, buildings, and public squares. Cooperate with the police.
Military Service: Military service is mandatory in Azerbaijan for male citizens ages 18 to 30. If Azerbaijan considers you a citizen, you could face fines or arrest if you have not completed your military service. Dual citizen males ages 18 to 30 have been prevented from departing Azerbaijan on U.S. or Azerbaijan passports until they resolved military service requirements with the Azerbaijan government. The Embassy cannot resolve this issue for affected individuals. For information regarding Azerbaijan’s mandatory military service, including contact information, see Azerbaijan’s State Service for Mobilization and Conscription website. Information about renouncing Azerbaijani citizenship is available at the Embassy of Azerbaijan.
Drones: Azerbaijan does not allow the import of drones without prior authorization. Drones brought into the country without authorization are subject to confiscation by customs officials.
Customs: Taking carpets, artwork, and other cultural artifacts out of the country requires an export certificate. Consult the seller or the Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum for assistance.
Counterfeit and Pirated Goods: Counterfeit and pirated goods are prevalent in many countries, and they may be illegal according to the local laws. Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. You may be subject to fines and/or have to give up counterfeit and pirated goods if you bring them back to the United States. Review the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website and U.S. Department of Justice website for more information.
Faith-Based Travelers: Review the following webpages for details:
International Volunteers:
Gay and Lesbian Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of events in Azerbaijan. However, persons may face discrimination, harassment, and violence on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation. Reports indicate that authorities have rarely investigated, prosecuted, or punished those for violence targeting persons on the basis of sexual orientation. There are some limits on freedom of expression and peaceful assembly regarding matters related to sexual orientation due in part to societal stigma.
Review our Gay and Lesbian Traveler Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.
Travelers with Disabilities: The law in Azerbaijan prohibits discrimination against persons with physical, sensory, intellectual, or mental disabilities, but accessibility for persons with disabilities is limited throughout the country. Expect accessibility to be limited in transportation, lodging, and general infrastructure.
Review our Travelers with Disabilities page.
Students: Review our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips for U.S. students.
Women Travelers: Women travelers should be aware that there have been reports of unwanted male attention, harassment, and underreporting of sexual assault due to cultural stigma. Exercise caution, especially when walking alone or taking taxis.
Review our travel tips for Women Travelers.
For emergency medical services in Azerbaijan, dial 103.
Ambulance services are:
Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance.
Review our Health Abroad page for more information.
The Department of State, U.S. embassies and U.S. consulates do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.
Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. Review our Insurance Overseas page for more information on insurance providers with overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Travel Insurance page for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.
Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Embassy of Azerbaijan or the State Customs Committee to ensure the medication is legal in Azerbaijan.
Vaccinations: Be up to date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Further health information:
Air Quality: Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations overseas.
The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
Health facilities in general:
Medical Tourism and Elective Surgery:
Pharmaceuticals:
Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy
Surrogacy is illegal for foreigners in Azerbaijan, pursuant to section 144-1 of the Azerbaijan Criminal Code.
Altitude: Many locations in Azerbaijan, such as Shahdagh and Tufandag, are at high altitude. Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take precautions before you travel. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information about Travel to High Altitudes.
Water Quality & Food Safety: Tap water in Azerbaijan is not potable. Bottled water and beverages are generally safe, although you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested. Be aware that ice for drinks may be made using tap water.
Adventure Travel
Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Adventure Travel website for more information about Adventure Travel.
Road Conditions and Safety: The information below is provided for general reference only.
Traffic Laws: Vehicles drive on the right. Routine traffic stops are common. If you are driving, keep all required documents with you, including passport or local registration documents, driver’s license, vehicle registration documents, and proof of insurance.
Public Transportation:
See our Road Safety page for more information.
Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Azerbaijan’s State Civil Aviation Administration as in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.
Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Azerbaijan should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website, and the NGA broadcast warnings.
Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Azerbaijan. For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act (ICAPRA) report.
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