🇦🇿 Azerbaijan’s New Work Permit Rules: How Highly Qualified Foreigners Can Work Without a Permit in 2025

Azerbaijan is rapidly emerging as a destination for international talent. Blending a rich history with modern innovation, the country has recently introduced reforms that make it easier for highly qualified foreign professionals to work across all sectors—without needing a traditional work permit. Here’s everything you need to know.

Overview of the New Work Permit Regulations

Azerbaijan has restructured its immigration laws, allowing highly skilled foreign nationals to work in the country without obtaining a work permit. This move marks a significant shift from the previous system, which limited exemptions to very specific cases.

Who Is Eligible to Work Without a Permit?

Under the new policy, foreign nationals can work without a permit if they qualify as “highly skilled professionals.” Previously, only individuals involved in government-approved projects or national interest initiatives were eligible. Now, skilled foreigners can work in both public and private sectors, provided the role matches their expertise.

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Criteria for Being Considered ‘Highly Qualified’

To be exempt from a work permit, applicants must meet certain criteria:

1. Proof of Qualifications

Applicants must submit documented proof of their skills and professional achievements. Acceptable documents include academic degrees, certifications, and evidence of relevant work experience.

2. Points-Based Evaluation

A transparent points-based system assesses each applicant’s eligibility. Factors likely include education level, years of experience, and specialization relevance.

How to Apply for Highly Qualified Status

While the full digital application portal is still under development, the general process includes:

• Submitting an application with supporting qualifications.
• Waiting for processing, typically between 20 and 30 business days.

Future applications will likely be handled through a new digital portal. For updates, it’s advisable to check the official website of the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection.

Duration and Renewal of Work Authorization

Approved applicants will receive highly qualified status for five years, with the option to renew. This long-term stability makes Azerbaijan an even more attractive destination for international professionals.

Residence Permit Requirement

Even though the work permit is no longer mandatory for highly qualified individuals, a residence permit is still required. Foreign nationals must apply for and maintain a valid residence permit to legally live and work in Azerbaijan.

Why Azerbaijan Appeals to Global Professionals

The relaxed rules aim to attract skilled professionals from sectors such as:

• Engineering
• Information Technology
• Healthcare
• Academia
• Specialized technical fields

This policy supports Azerbaijan’s broader economic goals by encouraging knowledge transfer and innovation.

Important Tips for Applicants

• Prepare all educational and professional documents, translated into Azerbaijani if necessary.
• Monitor announcements from the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection for updates about the digital application portal.
• Remember, having a residence permit remains a legal requirement even without the work permit.

Conclusion

Azerbaijan’s updated work permit rules represent a major opportunity for highly qualified international professionals. By removing bureaucratic barriers, the country is positioning itself as a global hub for skilled talent. If you are seeking to grow your career abroad in 2025, Azerbaijan’s new policies make it a destination worth serious consideration.

Stay informed as the implementation progresses and take the first step toward working in one of Eurasia’s most exciting economies.

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