Azerbaijan offers a unique experience for travellers looking to get away from it all and discover its culture and heritage. So it's not unusual for people to want to extend their stay in this fascinating country. If you are in this situation and need to extend the duration of your e-visa, this article will guide you through the necessary steps.
Understanding the conditions and restrictions associated with the Azerbaijani e-Visa
To ensure that you comply with the country's legal requirements, it is essential to understand the rules surrounding the e-Visa before considering extending it.
What is an e-Visa?
An e-Visa is an official document issued by the Azerbaijani authorities allowing foreign nationals to enter and stay in the country. It is a faster and simpler alternative to the traditional visa issued by embassies and consulates.
Validity and duration of authorised stay
The Azerbaijan e-Visa is valid for a total of 90 days from the date of issue. However, the initial period of authorised stay may not exceed 30 days. If you wish to extend this period, you must apply to the relevant local authorities.
e-Visa restrictions
It is important to note that the e-Visa does not authorise the holder to work in Azerbaijan during the period of validity of the document, unless a work permit has been obtained in advance.
Steps to extend the validation of your Azerbaijani e-Visa
If you decide to extend your stay in Azerbaijan beyond the 30 days initially granted and your e-Visa is still valid, here are the steps to follow:
Contact ASAN Service or SRS
The government agency responsible for issuing and managing visas in Azerbaijan is theASAN Service (Azerbaijan Service and Assessment Network). You can also contact the SRS (State Migration Service)via their website.
Prepare the necessary documents
To request an extension to your e-Visa, you will need to provide certain documents, such as :
- A copy of the identification page of your passport containing your personal details.
- Your initial e-Visa and its expiry date.
- Proof of accommodation for the additional period requested (for example, a hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from an Azerbaijani resident).
- Proof that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses during the extension of your stay.
Note that local authorities may ask you for other specific documents depending on the circumstances of your application.
Submit your application in person
You must submit your extension request in person to the relevant agency and pay the associated fees. The amount of these fees may vary depending on the length of the additional stay you require, and also on your nationality.
Respect the process and the deadline
Processing your application may take several days or even weeks. So it's best to start the process before your initial e-Visa expires, to avoid any problems. During this period, make sure you comply with all the conditions attached to your valid visa.
Practical tips for extending your e-Visa
When you decide to extend your stay in Azerbaijan and extend the validity of your e-Visa, it is essential to be well prepared in order to facilitate the procedures and avoid any problems when applying:
Plan your extended stay in advance
Anticipation is crucial when preparing an e-Visa extension. Check the expiry date of your current visa and estimate how much extra time you need to achieve your travel goals. As mentioned above, the process can be quite lengthy.
Keep all your documents tidy and accessible
Make sure you keep all the necessary documents in a safe place and have them with you when you meet the local authorities.
Check the status of your application regularly
To check the progress of your e-Visa extension application, remember to contact the department where you submitted your application on a regular basis.
By following these steps and tips, you'll be better equipped to make the most of your extended stay in Azerbaijan and avoid any problems with your e-Visa.