Azerbaijan•AsiaVaries
Free
Up to 2 years
No
Not Required
Allowed
Available
Not Required
Temporary residence permit for foreigners engaged in self-employment or entrepreneurial activity in Azerbaijan.
The Entrepreneur Self-Employment Residence Permit is established under the Migration Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan to provide a legal basis for foreign nationals who are actively engaged in self-employment or individual business activities. This permit was designed to encourage independent economic activity and small-scale entrepreneurship by foreign residents. It fills a vital gap for freelancers, sole proprietors, and independent contractors who wish to operate legally within the country but do not fit into the traditional corporate employment or large-scale investment categories.
This permit is for foreign individuals who register as sole proprietors (individual entrepreneurs) and actively contribute to the local economy. A key requirement for this permit is the demonstration of actual business activity, which typically includes hiring a minimum of five local full-time employees, with at least 80% being Azerbaijani citizens. This requirement makes the permit distinctive, as it links the applicant's right to reside directly to their contribution to local job creation. It is an ideal choice for entrepreneurs who want to build and operate a small business while actively participating in the Azerbaijani labor market.
Visas you can typically switch to from this status.
AzerbaijanMust be registered as an individual entrepreneur (sole proprietor) in Azerbaijan.
Must employ at least five full-time employees or ten part-time employees.
At least 80% of the employees must be citizens of the Republic of Azerbaijan (or specific categories of permanent residents/refugees).
For renewal of the permit after the first year, the entrepreneur must demonstrate an annual turnover of at least 50,000 AZN in the preceding year.
Must hold a valid residence permit to register as an individual entrepreneur initially.
Education
none or higher
Application form
Copy of valid passport
Medical certificate (confirming absence of dangerous infectious diseases)
Proof of individual entrepreneur registration (tax registration documents)
Employment contracts for the required number of staff (at least 5 full-time or 10 part-time)
Document confirming annual turnover (for renewals, obtained from tax authorities)
Proof of residential address in Azerbaijan
Notarized consent of the property owner for registration
Two passport-sized photos (3.5 x 4.5 cm)
Receipt of state fee payment
Let's check your eligibility against published requirements. 2 minutes. Free trial.
Check Eligibility