Azerbaijan plans digital nomad visas and residence permits

Azerbaijan is preparing to issue specialized business visas as well as temporary and permanent residence permits to foreign digital nomads working remotely in IT, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and innovation. Proposed amendments to the Migration Code were reviewed by the parliament's Committee on Economic Policy, Industry, and Entrepreneurship.

Under the draft legislation, applicants will be exempt from presenting an official host invitation. To obtain a business visa or a temporary residence permit—issued for up to three years with extension eligibility—foreign nationals must prove an average monthly income from foreign sources over the preceding six months equal to at least 13 times the national minimum wage. Qualifying for temporary or permanent residency further requires tax registration and operating as an official technology park resident.

Securing permanent residency will require a verified foreign monthly income equivalent to at least 26 times the minimum wage. Notably, digital nomads will be exempt from the standard mandatory exams on Azerbaijani language proficiency and legal foundations, while being integrated into the state social insurance system. If passed, the legislation will take effect on January 1, 2027.

N. Tebrizli