Azerbaijan: Visa and Work Authorization Changes in the Alyat Free Economic Zone

As of January 12, 2023, foreign nationals engaged in projects within the Alyat Free Economic Zone can obtain business visas upon invitation by an employer or resident of this zone. Further, shareholders, employees and foreign nationals holding temporary residence permits in the area can now sponsor foreign nationals for personal trip visas. Foreign nationals entering the Alyat Free Economic Zone on personal trip or business visas can also now extend their stay once in country for up to 60 days; further, they will not have to submit documents confirming their address when applying for an extension (the extension application should be submitted to the administration of the Alyat Free Economic Zone). Also, foreign shareholders of legal entities in the area, their foreign employees, and residents are no longer required to obtain work permits. Additionally, the Alyat Free Economic Zone administration will submit temporary residence permit applications to the State Migration Service (SMS) on behalf of foreign nationals in the area, as well as their dependents, and foreign nationals will no longer be required to provide landlord documents (permission letters, ownership certificates or identification of the landlord). Further, their address of residence must be provided directly by the administration of the Alyat Free Economic Zone to the SMS.