Short-term work permits introduced

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Under recent changes, Azerbaijan has introduced short-term work permits for foreign workers.

What does the change mean? Foreign nationals may now apply for permits with durations of three or six months.

• Implementation timeframe: The new permits were introduced in May 2014 although they have not been officially adopted in the Migration Code.
• Visas/permits affected: Work permits.
• Who is affected: Foreign nationals on short-term work assignments.
• Impact on processing times: Processing times for the new permits are the same as for longer-duration work permits.
• Business impact: Businesses should use these visas for workers on short-term assignments.
• Next steps: Foreign nationalsmay now apply for the permits; companies may also apply on their behalf without a personal appearance by the worker.

Background: The new three-month and six-month work and residence permits were introduced in May 2014 even though the measure has not been officially passed as law. Legislation incorporating the changes into Azerbaijan’s Migration Code is pending.

The documentation requirements and the processing times are the same for the shorter-term permits as for one-year permits.

BAL Analysis: Previously, foreign nationals could apply for 90-day business visas for short-term work. However, employers should be aware that business visas are no longer valid for conducting work and that the new work permits with shorter validity must be used for short-term work assignments.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Azerbaijan. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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