Azerbaijan

Safety and security

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 102 for police.
• Dial 103 for ambulance.
• Dial 860 (or dial 012-860 for outside of Baku)  for toll-free domestic violence hotline or email ([email protected])

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)

Landmines

Do not travel to the following regions due to landmines: Agdam, Aghdara, Fuzuli, Gubadli, Jabrayil, Kalbajar, Khankendi, Khojali, Khojavend, Lachin, Shusha, and Zangilan.

• Even though armed hostilities have ceased in the region, there are still  dangers from landmine contamination.
• Landmines and unexploded ordnance exist throughout this region. Many of them are not marked, so it can be hard to know where they are.
• The U.S. government is unable to provide immediate emergency services to U.S. citizens in these regions. U.S. Government employees need approval to travel there.

Demonstrations 

Demonstrations are rare but may be suppressed with force. They may take place in response to political or economic issues. They may also occur on significant holidays, and during large events.

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations. 
• Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.

Crime

Azerbaijan is rated as low threat for crime. Most cases reported to the U.S. embassy involve petty thefts. These happen in areas frequented by tourists including Fountain Square, Old City, and Park Bulvar.

Safety tips:

• Carry only essential items in your wallet.
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and visa.
• Use a money clip or keep your wallet in your front pocket.
• Be alert to strangers who start conversations on the street. Even simple questions like "What time is it?" can be a distraction used by pickpockets or scammers. If someone approaches you unexpectedly, ignore them and walk away.
• Avoid clubs oriented towards adult entertainment. You may receive a large
• bill and be intimidated into paying it. 
• Do not leave drinks unattended for someone to slip something in it.
• Do not travel out at night alone.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

Financial scams and Internet romance scams can occur in Azerbaijan. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. military personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Free trip or luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 102.

Review our information for Victims of Crime. 

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care. 
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system. 
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

Serious crimes are uncommon in Azerbaijan and tend to occur at bars or between people who know each other. Widespread CCTV coverage helps prevent criminal activity. U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy in Baku and local law enforcement for assistance.  U.S. citizens who experience domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy for assistance. Local support services include shelters, medical care, and legal aid. 

Victims of domestic violence may contact the State Committee for Family, Women, and Children Affairs hotline:

• Dial 860 (or 012-860 outside of Baku)
• Email [email protected]

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications installed and configured before leaving the United States. 
• Do not connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.

Drones and Satellite Phones

Azerbaijan does not allow the import of drones without prior authorization. There are no restrictions on bringing mobile and satellite phones into Azerbaijan.

• Drones brought into the country without authorization are subject to confiscation by customs officials.

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare.
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs.
• Staff may not be trained or certified.
• If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to a major city for appropriate medical care.
• First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws.
• If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
  
• Travelers who accidentally break local laws have been detained. Sometimes, this can be for a long time. They may also face criminal charges and even be convicted of a crime.
• Tourists have been arrested/detained by police for taking pictures or showing a “lack of respect” near both government facilities and memorial sites. Disrespectful behaviors may include shouting, laughing, public displays of affection, and posting social media content that violates the sanctity of the venue.
• You can be legally detained for up to 4 days before being charged.
• Depending on the charges, you may remain in detention for up to 19 months during a pre-trial investigation.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Azerbaijan seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required. 
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately.

Detention conditions

Detention conditions in Azerbaijan pose serious risks for detainees, including U.S. nationals.

Treatment and legal rights

Credible reports indicate a risk of mistreatment, especially right after arrest, including physical coercion to obtain confessions.

• Complaints of abuse are rarely investigated effectively.
• Access to legal counsel may be delayed or restricted, resulting in limited ability to challenge detention conditions in practice.
• Contact with family and legal representatives may be monitored.

Facility Conditions

• Facilities are often overcrowded, with poor sanitation and aging infrastructure.
• Conditions may be more severe in pre-trial detention facilities.
• Food quality and quantity may be inadequate. Detainees rely heavily on external support for food, hygiene items and clothing.
• Medical treatment may be delayed or insufficient with limited access to medications and specialized care.
• Overcrowding increases the risk of communicable diseases.
• Under the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, foreign nationals have the right to request consular notification. The U.S. Embassy in Baku may conduct welfare visits with government approval. It can also provide a list of local attorneys. We cannot secure release or intervene in legal proceedings.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws. 
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety. 
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States. 

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice  

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources: 

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex sexual relations, the provision of information or services to persons on the basis of real or perceived sexual orientation, or the organization of events focused on sexual orientation in Azerbaijan.
• However, people may face discrimination, harassment, and violence based on real or perceived sexual orientation.
• Authorities have rarely investigated, prosecuted, or punished violence targeting persons based on sexual orientation.
• There are some limits on freedom of expression and peaceful assembly regarding matters related to sexual orientation due in part to societal stigma.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with accessibility needs

The law in Azerbaijan prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, psychosocial, intellectual or mental disabilities. The law is not consistently enforced in practice.

• Accessibility for people with disabilities is limited throughout the country.
• Expect accessibility to be limited in public transportation, lodging, and general infrastructure.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers 

• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human Rights

The human rights situation in Azerbaijan is  marked by undue restrictions of the rights to freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly; reprisals against human rights defenders and journalists; an effective ban on independent human rights monitoring and reporting in the country; lack of due process in some cases; and abuse of the criminal justice system for political purposes.  Independent journalists, political opponents, and civil society activists face arbitrary arrest, politically motivated prosecutions on spurious charges, and systemic mistreatment in police custody.

Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Azerbaijan Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency numbers

• Dial 103 for emergency medical services.

Ambulance services

• Ambulance services are widely available. However, the response time of emergency responders may be poor.
• Ambulances are staffed by a doctor and nurse by law but may have little or no medical equipment. 
• Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital. This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses abroad.  Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Azerbaijan. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to Azerbaijan.
• Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
• Private hospitals often need payment up front or proof of good insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient. 
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
• If you purchase supplemental insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from the insurance provider. Follow their instructions for filing claims.

Vaccinations

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

Health facilities are available in Baku.  Some facilities do not meet the same standard of quality as healthcare facilities in the Unites States.  It may be harder to find adequate health care in rural areas.

• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Public medical clinics lack basic resources and supplies. 
• Hospitals and doctors often require cash payment upfront prior to service or admission.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.

Prescription medications

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

• Check with the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Azerbaijan to ensure the medication is legal in Azerbaijan.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.
• Azerbaijan imposes strict restrictions on the importation of controlled substances, including pain killers and other prescription narcotics, available in the United States. Avoid carrying or shipping such medications. If you must bring them, you should bring diagnosis and prescription paperwork from a licensed practitioner in the United States.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States.  If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and surrogacy

• If you are considering traveling to Azerbaijan to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) , please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.
• Surrogacy is illegal for foreigners in Azerbaijan.

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water is not safe to drink in Azerbaijan.
  
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested.
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Altitude

Many areas frequented by tourists in Azerbaijan, such as Shahdag and Tufandag, are at high altitude.

• Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness and take precautions before you travel.
• If you have a pre-existing medical condition, like diabetes or high blood pressure, talk with your doctor before traveling to high altitude cities like Gusar.
• Visit the CDC website for more information about Travel to High Altitudes.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Andorra.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

Road conditions in Azerbaijan are different from those in the United States. Exercise caution when driving in Azerbaijan.

• Reckless driving is very common. Many drivers do not pay attention to traffic regulations, signals, lane markings, pedestrians, or other drivers. Drivers often travel at extremely high speeds. Accidents are frequent and often serious.
• Older secondary roads are poorly constructed and poorly lit. Many rural roads are largely unpaved. Driving hazards, such as open manholes, debris, and potholes are common in Baku.
• Unfinished road sections may be extremely dangerous due to lack of proper construction and hazard signage.
• Watch out for pedestrians. Pedestrians routinely disregard vehicles, crosswalks, signs and signals, and in general act carelessly.
• Exercise caution on roads near international  borders. Be aware that some portions of the road may cross international boundaries without notice. Roads may be controlled by checkpoints or closed to travelers without notice.

Traffic laws 

You can use a valid U.S. driver’s license, but an International Driving Permit is highly recommended for translation purposes.

• Routine traffic stops are common.
• If you are driving, keep all required documents with you, including passport or local registration documents, driver’s license, vehicle registration documents, and proof of insurance.
• Foreigners residing in Azerbaijan for more than 30 days must obtain a local driver’s license through ASAN Xidmet.
• Azerbaijan has strict laws about driving under the influence of alcohol. It is illegal to drive with any measurable amount of alcohol in your system.

Taxis and ride-shares

Both taxis and ride-share applications are available in Baku.

• Bolt, a ride-hailing service and a popular alternative to local taxis, is available in Baku.
• If planning to use a local app, visitors are advised to download the app  and connect a payment method to the app before arrival.
• Uber in Azerbaijan is not the American company; it is owned by a Russian internet company.
• U.S. government employees working in Azerbaijan are not permitted to use ride-share apps except for Bolt due to the risks. U.S. citizens are advised to take the same precautions.
• Regular taxis are available in Baku. They can often be hailed directly from the street. But local taxi drivers often upcharge customers, especially foreigners.
• Taxi drivers typically do not speak English. Familiarize yourself with local landmarks for navigation.

Public and commercial transportation

The Baku metro system is an inexpensive option for transportation. Security cameras provide coverage of all metro platforms throughout the system. Public transportation, including buses and trains, can sometimes be overcrowded and poorly maintained. 

• There are police units at each metro station. Bag checks may be carried out at the entrance to each station.
• Use only marked taxis 
• Visit the website of Azerbaijan’s national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight

• The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has found that Azerbaijan meets international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Kuwait should check the following:

• U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Advisories
• MARAD Active Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings
• U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Commons

Weather and natural disasters

Weather conditions

• Heavy rainfall can cause serious flooding, particularly in urban areas with inadequate drainage systems. This occurs particularly in autumn from October to November, and spring months from March to May.
• Droughts occur due to natural scarcity, poor infrastructure, and contamination.   Droughts become severe during summer months from June to September.
• Earthquakes can occur year-round throughout Azerbaijan. Earthquakes are unpredictable.

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates