Azerbaijan has become a popular destination for travellers from all over the world in recent years, thanks to its breathtaking scenery, rich culture and legendary hospitality. Whether you're planning a business trip or a holiday with family and friends, you may have a large group and need to apply for visas for all members.
Determine whether a visa is required for each member of the group
The first step is to check whether all members of the group need a visa to enter Azerbaijan. Nationals of some countries are exempt from visa requirements for short stays, while others must apply for a visa before departure. To find out the visa requirements for each nationality, consult the official Azerbaijani government website, contact the Azerbaijani embassy or consulate in your country or a specialised visa agency.
Situation of French, Belgian and Swiss nationals
For example, French, Belgian and Swiss citizens can enter Azerbaijan without a visa for tourist stays of less than 30 days. However, for longer stays, a visa at the embassy is required.
Other nationalities
For other nationalities, it is essential to contact the relevant authorities to find out about the conditions for entering Azerbaijan.
Organising the electronic visa application (e-Visa) for the group
If one or more members of the group need a visa for Azerbaijan, the quickest and simplest procedure is to apply for an electronic visa (e-Visa). This type of visa is available to nationals of many countries, including France, Belgium and Switzerland. The e-Visa is valid for up to 30 days and can be obtained online in a few simple steps:
- Complete the online application form on the official website of the Azerbaijani government or via an agency.
- Pay visa fees by credit card.
- Receive confirmation of your request by e-mail.
- Print out the electronic visa received by e-mail and present this document when entering Azerbaijan.
It is important to note that any group of less than 10 people can apply on the same form.
Preparing the application for a traditional visa at an embassy
For nationalities that are not eligible for e-Visa, you will need to go through the traditional visa application procedure at the Azerbaijani embassy or consulate in your country. To make it easier to obtain visas for large groups, we recommend that you compile a complete file including the following documents:
- A valid passport for each member of the group, with an expiry date of at least six months after the planned date of departure from Azerbaijan.
- A recent passport photo for each applicant.
- The visa application form duly completed and signed for each person.
- Visa fees for each member of the group (the amount varies according to nationality and length of stay).
- An official letter of invitation, if required (for example, for a business trip or family visit).
It may be a good idea to appoint someone within the group to take charge of compiling and submitting the application to the embassy or consulate.
An agency service 