Financial Chain Corporation Presents: Work Permit in Azerbaijan - FChain

What Is a Work Permit?

A work permit in Azerbaijan is an official document that authorizes local companies and individual entrepreneurs to employ foreign specialists. An application for a work permit must be submitted before signing the employment contract. Additionally, the foreign employee must hold a valid temporary residence permit based on the corresponding legal grounds.

Who Submits the Application?

• Applicants: Only business entities (companies or sole proprietors) or their authorized representatives may apply.
• Foreign Employees: Cannot apply on their own behalf.
• Scope of Work: The foreign employee may work only in the position and at the location specified in the issued permit.

Key Requirements for Employer and Employee

1. Age and Legal Capacity
   • The foreign national must be at least 18 years old.
2. Labor Market Need
   • The vacancy must fall within a field where qualified local candidates are difficult to find (for example, IT specialists, executive chefs of international restaurants, etc.).
3. Qualifications
   • The candidate must possess the education and professional training appropriate to the position.

Processing Times and Fees

• Review Period: 10–20 business days.
• State Fee: AZN 1,000–1,400 per permit.
• Validity:
  • Typically issued for one year.
  • May be issued for a shorter term if the employment contract is less than one year.
  • Renewal is allowed annually, no later than 30 days before the current permit expires.

Application and Renewal Procedure

1. Verify the Need for a Foreign Employee
   • Ensure that the position cannot be filled by a qualified Azerbaijani national.
2. Gather Required Documents (see list below).
3. Submit the Application
   • Online via the State Migration Service portal, or in person at the Migration Service office.
4. Receive the Permit and Sign the Employment Contract
   • The foreign national may begin work immediately upon receiving the permit.
5. Renewal
   • Repeat the application process at least 30 days before the permit’s expiration date.

Required Documents

• Completed application form.
• Copy of the foreign employee’s passport.
• Justification for hiring a foreign national (e.g., letter of recommendation).
• Notarized copy of the diploma or other document proving education and qualifications.
• Notarized copies of the employer’s founding (incorporation) documents.
• For renewal: Copy of the current work permit.

Exceptions (No Permit Required)

A work permit is not required if the foreign national falls into one of the categories listed in Article 64 of the Migration Code, such as:

• Holding permanent residence (PRP) in Azerbaijan.
• Married to an Azerbaijani citizen.
• Employed by an international organization or diplomatic mission.
• Already conducting their own entrepreneurial activities in Azerbaijan.
• Holding refugee or similar status, etc.

Our Services

Financial Chain Corporation provides a full range of legal services for obtaining and renewing work permits and associated residence permits in Azerbaijan. Contact us for professional support at every stage of the process.