Turkey Among Nations Gaining 30-Day Visa-Free Access to Azerbaijan in New Pilot Program

New Visa-Free Pilot Program Commences

Starting on February 2, 2026, citizens of Turkey will be among several nationalities to gain visa-free access to Azerbaijan for stays of up to 30 days. This new arrangement is part of a one-year pilot program initiated by Azerbaijan, designed to significantly boost tourism and foster business exchanges. The policy is expected to strengthen Azerbaijan's role as a critical link between Asia and Europe.

Participating Countries and Program Details

The pilot program extends visa-free travel to passport holders from a select group of countries. Alongside Turkey, citizens from Morocco, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), China, Russia, and Moldova will also benefit from this new policy.

Under the terms of this initiative, travelers from these nations can enter Azerbaijan without a visa for a maximum period of 30 days. The program is set to run for one year, simplifying travel procedures and aiming to increase visitor numbers and commercial interactions.

Boosting Tourism and Economic Growth

Azerbaijan's decision to implement this visa-free pilot program is a strategic move to stimulate its tourism sector and encourage foreign investment. By removing visa requirements, the country anticipates a surge in tourist arrivals and increased business opportunities, particularly in sectors such as oil and gas, infrastructure, and logistics.

Officials believe that simplifying entry will make Azerbaijan a more attractive destination, facilitating cultural exchange and strengthening diplomatic relations with the participating countries. The move is also seen as an effort to position Azerbaijan as a more open destination at a time when many countries are tightening entry rules.

Strengthening Regional Integration

This visa-free initiative underscores Azerbaijan's commitment to enhancing regional integration and bilateral cooperation. The simplified travel process is expected to lead to increased people-to-people contacts and foster a more interconnected economic landscape. The government anticipates that the policy will contribute to higher airline traffic, increased hotel occupancy, and a general uplift in cross-border business activities.