Extending Visas In Azerbaijan: What Are Your Options?

If you are in Azerbaijan and want to extend your stay, you can apply for a visa extension. The extension of temporary stay in Azerbaijan is granted by the State Migration Service of the Republic of Azerbaijan. The application process involves submitting the necessary documents no later than three working days before the expiry of the temporary stay. The extension is typically granted for up to 60 days and a fee is payable. The requirements for extending your stay in Azerbaijan vary depending on your nationality and the type of visa you hold. It is important to note that foreigners who entered Azerbaijan on a visa basis can extend their stay for a period not exceeding the duration specified in their visa. Those who entered without a visa cannot stay in Azerbaijan for more than 90 days.

Visa extension requirements

The requirements for extending a visa in Azerbaijan vary depending on the type of visa and the individual's circumstances. Here is a detailed overview of the visa extension process and requirements:

Who Can Apply for a Visa Extension?

According to the Republic of Azerbaijan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, foreigners and stateless persons can apply for an extension of their temporary stay in the country. This includes individuals who entered Azerbaijan with a visa or under a visa-free regime.

When to Apply for a Visa Extension:

It is important to initiate the visa extension process at least three working days before the expiration of the temporary stay period. Applications received after the visa has expired will not be accepted, and individuals will be required to leave the country within 48 hours of receiving a rejection decision.

Where to Apply for a Visa Extension:

Individuals can apply for a visa extension through the State Migration Service of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Applications should be submitted to the appropriate authority, and the process can also be initiated at the nearest embassy if already in Azerbaijan.

Documents Required for a Visa Extension:

When applying for a visa extension, the following documents are typically required:

• A completed application form.
• A copy of the passport or other border-crossing document.
• A notarized copy of the birth certificate or equivalent document for individuals under 18 without a passport.
• Proof of urgent medical treatment, serious illness, or death of a close relative in Azerbaijan (if applicable).
• A document certifying the reason for the extension, such as incompleteness of intended work or an emergency during transit.
• Two photos with specific size requirements (3.5 x 4.5 cm).
• Proof of residence, such as a rental agreement or property deed.
• An application from the person providing accommodation, if different from the applicant.
• A copy of the identity document of the person providing accommodation.
• Receipt of payment for the state fee.

Processing Time for Visa Extension:

The processing time for visa extension applications is generally within three business days. Once approved, the extended stay period is typically granted for up to 60 days.

Leaving Azerbaijan After a Visa Extension:

Individuals with an approved visa extension can leave Azerbaijan by presenting their passports or other approved border-crossing documents, along with the decision on the extension of their temporary stay.

Where to apply for a visa extension

If you are in Azerbaijan and need to extend your visa, you can apply for a visa extension at the State Migration Service of the Republic of Azerbaijan. The address is:

202 Binagadi Highway, 3123 Block, Binagadi district, Baku city, AZ1114, Azerbaijan Republic.

You can contact them via email at [email protected] or by telephone on +994 (0)12 562 56 23 or +994 (0)12 562 57 73. Alternatively, you can try the Migration Information Centre on 919 (for calls made within Azerbaijan only).

You must apply for the extension before your original visa expires, and you will need to submit the necessary documents. This can also be done by contacting the relevant regional branch of the Migration Service, or by using online services through the eservice.migration.gov.az website.

If you are outside of Azerbaijan and need to extend your visa, you should contact your nearest embassy.

Visa extension fees

E-Visa Extension

The Azerbaijan E-Visa is a single-entry visa that is valid for 30 days. If you wish to extend your E-Visa, you must apply for a visa extension before the original visa expires. The extension process can be done through the State Immigration Office of the Republic of Azerbaijan or the Azerbaijan Republic State Migration Service. It is recommended to start the extension process early to avoid any issues.

The standard E-Visa fee is typically around $76.99 USD for the standard processing time of 15 days. If you require a faster processing time, the fees are as follows:

• Rush Processing Time (10 days): $94.99 USD
• Super Rush Processing Time (8 days): $127.99 USD

These fees include the government's fee and are subject to change. It is always advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Paper Visa Extension

For those who have obtained a paper visa through an embassy, the visa extension process and fees may differ. Paper visas can be extended for up to 60 days through the State Immigration Office of the Republic of Azerbaijan. The cost of extending a paper visa is typically around 30 AZN, which is approximately 30 Euros or $30 USD. However, it is important to initiate the extension process before the original visa expires, as late applications will not be accepted.

Overstaying and Late Fees

It is important to note that overstaying your visa without a valid extension can result in fines and legal consequences. If you fail to extend your visa before the expiry date, you will be subject to a fine ranging from $20 to $30 USD. Additionally, if you overstay your visa by more than 30 days and fail to register with the State Migration Service, you may be arrested by the authorities and subjected to an investigation. Therefore, it is crucial to plan your visa extension in advance and follow the necessary procedures.

In summary, the visa extension fees in Azerbaijan depend on the type of visa you hold and the processing time you require. It is always best to consult official sources and start the extension process early to avoid any inconvenience or additional fees.

Visa extension processing times

The processing time for an Azerbaijan visa extension depends on the type of visa you are applying for. It is important to note that you must apply for the extension before your original visa expires.

The Azerbaijan e-Visa is typically processed within 3 working days. However, there is an urgent e-Visa option that processes your application within 3 hours. The standard Azerbaijan Tourist Visa, Student Visa, Work Visa, and Transit Visa take anywhere from 5 to 15 working days to process. The Temporary Visit Permit for Indian nationals takes 15 days to process.

If you are in Azerbaijan and need to extend your visa, you can do so through the State Immigration Office of the Republic of Azerbaijan. The process takes 4 to 5 business days and costs 30 AZN (approximately 30 euros). The immigration office is located near the Azedliq Prospekti metro station. It is recommended to arrive early, as the office opens at 9 am, and there may be long waits.

When applying for a visa extension, you will need to provide the following documents:

• A valid passport with a minimum validity of six months
• A completed visa application form
• Proof of application payment
• A photocopy of your travel ticket
• Proof of medical insurance
• Vaccination records provided by an international health authority
• Proof of travel ticket
• A copy of the letter of invitation from Azerbaijan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs
• Contact information, identification, and proof of identity and nationality

Overstaying your visa

If you overstay your visit but still intend to leave Azerbaijan, you must apply for an exit permit. This will allow you to leave the country within 48 hours. You can expect to pay a fine of between AZN 300 and AZN 400 (approximately $177 to $235) and must present the receipt when checking in for your departure flight.

It is important to note that overstaying your visa can result in fines, deportation, and future travel restrictions. Therefore, if you need to extend your stay in Azerbaijan, it is recommended to start the extension process early to avoid any issues.

The process for extending your visa in Azerbaijan depends on the type of visa you hold. If you have a work visa, you must apply for an extension at least 30 days before your visa expires. You must have a valid work visa, not have violated any Azerbaijani laws during your stay, and have a letter from your employer confirming the extension of your employment contract. You must also have valid health insurance. Submit your application to the State Migration Service of Azerbaijan, pay the required fee, and wait for a decision, which can take up to 30 days.

If you have a tourist visa, you may be able to extend your stay through the State Immigration Office of the Republic of Azerbaijan. The application for a visa extension must be submitted before your original visa expires, and if approved, you should receive your visa extension within 4-5 business days.

It is important to follow the rules and regulations regarding visas in Azerbaijan to avoid any legal consequences and ensure a smooth travel experience.

Frequently asked questions