Azerbaijan is proposing new rules for business visas and residence permits for foreign nationals who work remotely and earn income from foreign sources.
A bill discussed during the first plenary session of the Azerbaijani Parliament’s autumn session introduces the concept of a “digital nomad” as a foreign national or stateless person working remotely in digital technologies, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity or innovation and receiving income from foreign sources.
Under the proposed changes, digital nomads applying for a business visa would not be required to provide a petition from an inviting party or a document confirming the purpose of the invitation. Instead, applicants would need to provide documents confirming their professional activity and an average fixed monthly income from foreign sources over the previous six months equal to at least 13 times the minimum monthly wage.
The same income requirement would apply to temporary residence permits. Such permits could be issued for up to three years and extended for periods of up to three years when the relevant grounds remain valid.
For permanent residence, a digital nomad would need to demonstrate an average fixed monthly income from foreign sources over the previous six months equal to at least 26 times the minimum monthly wage. Applicants under this category would not be required to demonstrate knowledge of their rights and obligations or the Azerbaijani state language.
The proposed rules would also require digital nomads seeking temporary or permanent residence to register with the tax authorities and operate as residents of a technology park.
In addition, proposed amendments to the law on social insurance would make digital nomads subject to mandatory state social insurance.
If adopted, the changes would take effect on January 1, 2027. The bill has passed its first reading in Parliament.
