Covid Testing Requirements For Air Travel To Azerbaijan

If you're planning a trip to Azerbaijan, it's important to be aware of the country's COVID-19 testing requirements for entry. While rules and restrictions can change over time, it's always a good idea to stay informed to ensure a smooth travel experience. As of April 15, 2022, Azerbaijan has lifted the requirement for a negative PCR test for COVID-19, but there are still specific conditions in place for entry.

• Heads and staff of foreign embassies and consulates accredited in the Republic of Azerbaijan and their family members
• Diplomatic travel document issued by the United Nations
• Travelling with a diplomatic passport
• Travelling based on special permission issued by the Operational Headquarters under the Cabinet of Ministers of Azerbaijan
• Foreign citizens, one of whose parents, siblings, spouse, children, grandparents or grandchildren are citizens of the Republic of Azerbaijan, as well as family members of those passengers (parents, spouse or children)
• Foreign citizens with a work permit in Azerbaijan
• Foreign citizens with a temporary or permanent residence permit in Azerbaijan, as well as family members of those passengers (parents, spouse or children under the age of 18 years) | | Who needs a Covid passport or vaccination certificate? | Citizens of the following countries: Albania, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Belarus, Belgium, Bhutan, Brazil, Brunei, Cambodia, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong (PRC), Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Iran, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Laos, Latvia, Lebanon, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Malaysia, Maldives, Malta, Mauritius, Mexico, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Myanmar, Nepal, New Zealand, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Switzerland, Tajikistan, Thailand, The Netherlands, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, UAE, Ukraine, United Kingdom, Uruguay, USA, Uzbekistan, Venezuela and Vietnam. |

Do I need a PCR test to fly to Azerbaijan?

If you are planning to fly to Azerbaijan, it is important to check the latest travel guidance for the country. Entry requirements can change, so it is recommended to check official government advice before your trip.

As of April 15, 2022, a negative PCR test for COVID-19 is no longer required for entry into Azerbaijan. However, only fully vaccinated citizens from certain countries are allowed entry. These countries include the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, and many countries in Europe, Asia, and South America.

If you are a citizen of one of these countries, you must present an official certificate confirming full vaccination or recovery from COVID-19. This certificate must have electronic verification attributes and be issued by the state. These documents will be checked during check-in at the airport.

For transit passengers travelling via Baku, the rules and conditions governing entry at the final destination shall be applicable. It is recommended that passengers check the IATA Travel Centre for the latest updates on the requirements of their destination country.

While a PCR test may not be required for entry into Azerbaijan, some countries may still require a negative test result for departure or transit. It is important to check the requirements for your specific journey. Additionally, some airlines or countries may accept alternative tests, such as antigen tests, for entry.

What about an antigen test?

As of April 15, 2022, a negative PCR test for COVID-19 is no longer required to enter Azerbaijan. However, it is important to note that testing requirements for travel can change frequently, so it is always a good idea to check for the most up-to-date information before your trip.

If you are considering an antigen test as an alternative to a PCR test for travel to Azerbaijan, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Firstly, antigen tests are generally accepted for travel, but it is important to check the specific requirements for your destination country. In some cases, a PCR test may be mandated. Additionally, timing requirements for test results may vary, so be sure to plan accordingly.

Antigen tests are typically faster and more convenient than PCR tests, with results often available in as little as 15 to 20 minutes. This type of test detects specific proteins on the surface of the virus and can be used to determine whether an individual is currently infected with COVID-19. The test involves taking a swab sample from the nose, which can be done at a clinic or via a self-administered home test kit.

When choosing an antigen test, look for options that offer a "Fit to Fly" certificate, which is often required for travel. This certificate confirms that you have tested negative for COVID-19 and are safe to travel. The cost of antigen tests can vary, but they are generally affordable, with prices starting from £11.99.

It is important to note that even if a negative COVID-19 test result is not required for entry into Azerbaijan, you may still need to present proof of vaccination or recovery from COVID-19. Additionally, some countries may require a combination of a negative test result and proof of vaccination or recovery. Therefore, staying informed about the latest travel requirements is essential.

What if I'm a citizen of Azerbaijan?

If you are a citizen of Azerbaijan, you should always check the latest government advice and information from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) before you fly. The IATA Travel Centre will have the most up-to-date information on passport, visa, and health requirements based on your personal details and trip itinerary. It is your responsibility to check the latest travel guidance for your country of travel.

COVID-19 restrictions are still in place in some countries, and you may need to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result or recovery from COVID-19 before boarding your flight. This can usually be in the form of a vaccine passport, which is proof that you've tested negative for or been protected against certain infections. It can be digital, like a phone app, or physical, such as a small paper card.

If you are travelling from the UK to Azerbaijan, you will need to take a COVID-19 antigen test. This will determine if COVID-19 is currently present in your body and involves a swab sample from the throat and nose. Results are available within 1 to 2 days and will be sent via email.

If you are travelling from the US to Azerbaijan, you will need to refer to the U.S. State Department's list of vaccine requirements for entry to global destinations. The CDC also keeps a list of travel notices for places around the world at CDC.gov/travel.

What if I'm unvaccinated?

If you are unvaccinated and planning to travel to Azerbaijan, you should be aware of the following requirements and guidelines:

Firstly, it is important to note that travel restrictions and requirements can change frequently, so it is essential to check the latest information before your trip. As of my last update in October 2021, here is the relevant information for unvaccinated travellers:

Testing Requirements:

According to Air Arabia, if you are an unvaccinated traveller, you must present a negative COVID-19 PCR test result within 72 hours of your flight's departure time. This test result must carry a QR code for verification. This rule applies to all passengers over the age of one, as infants below one year of age are exempt.

Quarantine Requirements:

Azerbaijan has specific rules for its citizens regarding quarantine. Unvaccinated Azerbaijani citizens are allowed to travel without a PCR test, but they must agree to undergo a 2-week quarantine upon arrival.

Visa Requirements:

Please note that visa requirements may vary depending on your country of origin. For example, residents of the UAE, Bahrain, and Qatar may be eligible for a visa on arrival. It is essential to check the specific requirements for your country of origin.

Additional Documentation:

In addition to the negative PCR test result, all passengers, regardless of their vaccination status, may need to present a COVID passport or certificate. This document confirms either the completion of the full course of vaccination or recovery from COVID-19. This requirement applies to passengers over the age of 18.

In-Country Restrictions:

Once you arrive in Azerbaijan, you should be aware of the ongoing domestic restrictions. While restaurants, cafes, and non-essential businesses are open, some facilities may require proof of vaccination for indoor entry. Additionally, face masks are mandatory in all indoor public spaces and on public transportation.

What if I've recovered from Covid-19?

If you have recently recovered from COVID-19, the testing and documentation requirements for travel to Azerbaijan will depend on your vaccination status and country of origin. Here is some information that may be helpful:

Testing Requirements for Recovered COVID-19 Patients:

• As of June 12, 2022, air passengers travelling from a foreign country to the United States are not required by the CDC to show a negative COVID-19 test or documentation of recovery before boarding their flight. However, individual states or territories may have their own requirements, so it is important to check the rules for your specific destination within the US.
• For travel to Azerbaijan, it is essential to consult the official government website for the most current and accurate information. Testing requirements for entry are subject to change.
• As of December 2021, Azerbaijan required all travellers from any country to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before the departure of the last direct flight to Azerbaijan. This requirement did not apply to passengers under one year of age.
• Alternatively, travellers could provide a COVID-19 vaccination certificate with a QR code or a COVID-19 recovery certificate with a QR code. This exemption applied to Azerbaijani nationals and passengers under 18 years of age.

Additional Considerations:

• Keep in mind that testing requirements can change frequently, so it is important to stay informed about the latest guidelines.
• Even if you have recovered from COVID-19, staying up to date with your vaccinations is crucial. Ensure that you are fully vaccinated and have received all recommended booster doses.
• Follow all recommendations and guidelines provided by the CDC and the government of Azerbaijan, including mask-wearing, social distancing, and any other preventive measures in place.
• If you develop COVID-19 symptoms or test positive for COVID-19 before your trip, follow the appropriate isolation and postponement guidelines to prevent the spread of the virus.

Frequently asked questions