Azerbaijan: Government enforcing eased domestic COVID-19 countermeasures as of March 20 /update 43

Event

The government of Azerbaijan is enforcing a less strict slate of domestic controls related to COVID-19 as of March 20. A number of restrictions have been lifted. Religious observances may once again take place within enclosed spaces, and large functions, including weddings, parties, conferences, and sporting events, are allowed. Cultural facilities, such as cinemas, theaters, conferences halls, etc., may resume operations. Limitations on the size of gatherings, as well as the operating capacities and schedules of restaurants and other business establishments, have also been lifted.

Domestic Measures
Despite the eased restrictions, individuals must still present proof of vaccination against or recovery from COVID-19 to enter various public establishments including shopping centers, restaurants, and hotels. The so-called Vaccine Certificate is only valid for six months from the date of the certificate holder's second dose. Mandates on the use of facemasks in certain indoor settings and on public transportation remain in effect.

Most nonessential businesses and services are permitted to operate subject to certain restrictions, though specific requirements can vary by location and type of business; local restrictions could be imposed with little or no notice.

International Travel Restrictions
Citizens and legal residents of several countries are allowed to travel to Azerbaijan by air provided they meet certain conditions. Specific countries from which travel is permitted include Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belgium, Brazil, Brunei, Cambodia, Canada, Chile, China, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cuba, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, El Salvador, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Maldives, Malta, Mexico, Morocco, Mongolia, Montenegro, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, the UAE, the UK, Ukraine, the US, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, and Venezuela. The requirements to enter Azerbaijan from these locations are:

• All passengers over the age of 18 years must possess official documentation issued by the relevant country authority demonstrating that they have either been fully vaccinated against or have recovered from COVID-19.

• All passengers over the age of one year must possess a negative result from a PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to their flight.

Authorities plan to perform periodic assessments and gradually ease entry restrictions for travelers from other locations. Returning Azerbaijani nationals require a negative result from a PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to their flight to enter the country. For a full list of countries approved for travel and further details on requirements for entering Azerbaijan, click here.

Land and maritime borders remain closed. The only option for entry and exit is via air on a limited number of commercial and charter flights operating to and from selected destinations. Passengers flying into Baku's Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) will undergo PCR tests upon arrival.

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.

Resources

Republic of Azerbaijan Cabinet of Ministers (in Azeri)
Republic of Azerbaijan Coronavirus Information Portal (in Azeri)