Azerbaijan — Visas and Healthcare
Passports and Visas
To obtain a visa on arrival at Baku airport, a passport photo and a fee is required, however it is better to arrange a visa in advance. An invitation is not necessary but it is recommended to hold a document that shows the purpose of the visit. Visas are only valid for the cities listed in the visa.
Americans
US nationals require a valid passport and a visa. One-month visas can be obtained on arrival.
UK Nationals
UK nationals require a valid passport and a visa. One-month visas can be obtained on arrival.
Canadians
Canadians require a valid passport and a visa. One-month visas can be obtained on arrival.
Australians
Australians require a valid passport and a visa. One-month visas can be obtained on arrival.
South Africans
South Africans require a valid passport and a visa. One-month visas can be obtained on arrival.
Irish Nationals
Irish nationals require a valid passport and a visa. One-month visas can be obtained on arrival.
New Zealanders
New Zealand nationals require a valid passport and a visa. One-month visas can be obtained on arrival.
Healthcare
No vaccinations are required for entry to Azerbaijan, but travelers should ensure that all routine vaccinations are up to date. There is a malaria risk between June and November in the lowland areas. Bird flu has been reported, but there is little risk to travelers; as a precaution it is advised that close contact with domestic and wild birds be avoided, and all egg and poultry dishes are thoroughly cooked. Most health facilities are state-owned and equipment and staff fall short of Western standards. Outside of the capital, medical care and supplies may be difficult to come by and serious medical problems will require air evacuation to another country; comprehensive medical insurance is advised.
Safety
The crime rate is relatively low, but muggings do occur in central Baku, particularly at night. Political gatherings and demonstrations should be avoided, as these have become violent in the past. Unlicensed taxis should be avoided. Corruption is widespread. The area around Nagorno-Karabakh has long been the subject of dispute between Azerbaijan and Armenia and most foreign governments advise against travel to the region due to ongoing exchanges of gunfire despite the ceasefire.
