Azerbaijan: Visa and Work Authorization Changes in the Alyat Free Economic Zone
February 6, 2023

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.
This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].
Explore more at Fragomen
Blog post
Associate Alejandro Hernandez analyses new F and J visa screening practices, including social media vetting by US consulates and proposed DHS changes that could significantly alter admission periods for students and exchange visitors.
Awards
Fragomen Ireland is accredited with IBECβs KeepWell Markβ’, recognizing the practiceβs commitment to wellbeing, inclusion and responsible business.
Media mentions
Director Kelly Hardman discusses how UK offshore immigration rules are creating challenges for energy and maritime operations.
Media mentions
Partner Γngel Bello CortΓ©s outlines upcoming changes to Irelandβs immigration rules and their implications for employers.
Media mentions
Partner Chad Ellsworth discussed the new $100,000 H-1B visa fee and ongoing demand for specialized talent across the US tech industry.
Media mentions
Senior Manager Kate Hooper and Associate Naomi Nyamaah explain the importance of maintaining sponsor licences for care providers in the UK.
Media mentions
Counsel Brian Hunt outlines how the US could scan social media as part of proposed entry requirements for travellers applying through ESTA.
Video
In the Mobility Minute, Practice Leader Colm Collins outlines upcoming changes to Irelandβs employment permit qualifying criteria and the steps employers should take ahead of the 1 March 2026 implementation.
Media mentions
Partner Charlotte Slocombe discusses what travellers to the US under the Visa Waiver Program need to disclose and consider before travelling.
Media mentions
Counsel Brian Hunt discussed US Customs and Border Protection's proposed changes to the ESTA application process regarding social media and additional personal information.
Media mentions
Senior Counsel Mitch Wexler explains key considerations for Indian applicants under the new Gold Card program.
Video
In this Mobility Minute, Manager Maja Sugui outlines key legalisation requirements when the Apostille Convention does not apply or when country-specific exceptions exist.
Blog post
Associate Alejandro Hernandez analyses new F and J visa screening practices, including social media vetting by US consulates and proposed DHS changes that could significantly alter admission periods for students and exchange visitors.
Awards
Fragomen Ireland is accredited with IBECβs KeepWell Markβ’, recognizing the practiceβs commitment to wellbeing, inclusion and responsible business.
Media mentions
Director Kelly Hardman discusses how UK offshore immigration rules are creating challenges for energy and maritime operations.
Media mentions
Partner Γngel Bello CortΓ©s outlines upcoming changes to Irelandβs immigration rules and their implications for employers.
Media mentions
Partner Chad Ellsworth discussed the new $100,000 H-1B visa fee and ongoing demand for specialized talent across the US tech industry.
Media mentions
Senior Manager Kate Hooper and Associate Naomi Nyamaah explain the importance of maintaining sponsor licences for care providers in the UK.
Media mentions
Counsel Brian Hunt outlines how the US could scan social media as part of proposed entry requirements for travellers applying through ESTA.
Video
In the Mobility Minute, Practice Leader Colm Collins outlines upcoming changes to Irelandβs employment permit qualifying criteria and the steps employers should take ahead of the 1 March 2026 implementation.
Media mentions
Partner Charlotte Slocombe discusses what travellers to the US under the Visa Waiver Program need to disclose and consider before travelling.
Media mentions
Counsel Brian Hunt discussed US Customs and Border Protection's proposed changes to the ESTA application process regarding social media and additional personal information.
Media mentions
Senior Counsel Mitch Wexler explains key considerations for Indian applicants under the new Gold Card program.
Video
In this Mobility Minute, Manager Maja Sugui outlines key legalisation requirements when the Apostille Convention does not apply or when country-specific exceptions exist.
