Azerbaijan: Government to begin easing certain domestic COVID-19-related restrictions as of May 31 /update 31

Azerbaijan to start easing certain domestic COVID-19 restrictions on May 31; international travel controls to remain unchanged.

Event

Authorities in Azerbaijan plan to ease certain domestic measures that had been introduced to combat the spread of COVID-19. Effective May 31, the Baku Metro will resume operating on its normal 06:00-23:59 schedule Mondays through Fridays; however, metro trains will not run on Saturdays and Sundays. Although protective facemasks will no longer be required in outdoor public areas, they will remain mandatory in metro stations and onboard trains. Interdistrict public transportation services will also start running again on May 31. Additional restrictions will be eased starting June 10 when authorities will allow mosques, malls, beaches, gyms, and fitness clubs to reopen.

The Azerbaijani government will also be implementing a COVID passport program under which persons who have been fully immunized against COVID-19 or who have recovered from the virus will receive documentation allowing them access to certain facilities and events that remain closed to unimmunized individuals. Authorities have not announced the specific date on which the new COVID passport system will go into effect; however, the program will likely officially begin prior to June 10.

Regardless of the planned easing of restrictions, a nationwide special quarantine regime will remain in place until at least June 1. Nonessential businesses and services, including catering establishments, are permitted to operate in accordance with strict hygiene and social distancing mandates. Specific requirements can vary by location and type of business. Until the new regulations go into effect, protective face coverings and social distancing will continue to be mandatory in both indoor and outdoor public spaces, and the Baku Metro will stay closed, with many public transport services being suspended during weekends.

The government in Baku has as yet announced no plans to ease the nation's existing restrictions on international travel. Land borders remain closed and most passenger flights are suspended. Some limited flights are operating to and from selected destinations for citizens and legal residents, their immediate families, and individuals with work or study permits. All travelers entering or leaving Azerbaijan must present proof of having tested negative for COVID-19 within the previous 48 hours and arrivals displaying symptoms may be required to quarantine for 14 days at government-operated facilities. All other arrivals will still need to self-isolate for 14 days, though they can end self-isolation after six days on confirmation of a further negative test result. Border restrictions do not apply to freight traffic.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.