Migration and permanent residence

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Migration and permanent residence

Obtaining a Residence Permit in Azerbaijan

“SME” LLC is a law firm specializing in providing assistance to foreigners who come to Azerbaijan to work, for permanent or temporary residence. Company has extensive experience in this field. We are aware of all changes in the legislation of Azerbaijan.

We provide the following services for foreign citizens in Azerbaijan:

Temporary Residence Permit
Permanent Residence or Citizenship Permit
Obtaining a Work Permit from a foreign employer
Preparation of Invitation Letters
Obtaining and extending a visa
Important issues to consider when moving to Azerbaijan
Tips for starting a business when moving to Azerbaijan

In the following cases foreigners and stateless persons are allowed to temporarily reside in the territory of the Republic of Azerbaijan:

Engages in entrepreneurial activity in the Republic of Azerbaijan;
Occupies the position of a manager and his/her deputy in a legal entity established in the Republic of Azerbaijan, and the founder or at least one of the founders of which is a foreign legal entity or individual
Is in close family relations with a citizen of the Republic of Azerbaijan;
Occupies the position of the head of the branch and representative office of a foreign legal entity in the Republic of Azerbaijan and his/her deputy
Has real estate in the territory of the Republic of Azerbaijan worth at least AZN 100,000
Highly qualified specialist in the field of economics, industry, military affairs, science, culture, sports and other areas
If family members of foreigners or stateless persons reside temporarily or permanently in the territory of the Republic of Azerbaijan
Investment in the country’s economy at least at the rate of AZN 500,000
Occupies the position of the head and his/her deputy in a legal entity established in the Republic of Azerbaijan, the founder or at least one of the founders of which is a foreign legal entity or individual

What is a Temporary Residence Permit?

Residence Permit is a document confirming the right of a foreign citizen or stateless person to temporary residence and work in the Republic of Azerbaijan, as well as the right to freely leave or enter the Republic of Azerbaijan. Residence Permit is also an identity document.

A temporary Residence Permit is issued to a foreign citizen for a period of 3 months or 3.6 year. Upon the expiration of the validity of Residence Permit, at the request of a foreign citizen, Residence Permit may be extended one month before the expiration of validity period. The number of renewals of Residence Permit is not limited.

Residence Permit in the Republic of Azerbaijan may be issued to a foreign citizen who has been living for at least one year, on the basis of a temporary residence permit

What documents are required to obtain a temporary Residence Permit through the opening of a business?

Application form (a form)
Original and copy of Foreign Passport
Documents of the company (Articles of Association, registration of tax code) – NOTARIZED
Order for appointment of a director (foreign citizen)
Medical Certificates: General Health Certificate, AIDS, Hepatitis B and C
2 photos (3х4)
Original and copy of the document for the house where he/she lives
Notarized statement of consent of the Lessor
Original and copy of Lessor’s Identity Card

Note: a foreign citizen must apply for a business or work visa during his/her visit to Azerbaijan

Obtaining a Residence Permit in Azerbaijan by Creating a Business

Considering the fact that Azerbaijan has created favourable conditions for business, investments and sustainable economic development, many foreigners are interested in starting a business and living here, and the number of such applications has increased in recent years. Foreigners cannot conduct business in Azerbaijan without proper documents, such a violation leads to serious consequences: administrative fines, deportation of a foreign citizen. Sometimes self-registration can be difficult and time-consuming due to the foreigner’s ignorance of Azerbaijani law. To avoid these problems, “SME” LLC will help you and prepare all the necessary documents.

Consulting company “SME” was founded by Doctor of Economics and lawyer Namazov Ilgar in 1990.

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Rimma Zeynalova

Chief legal lawyer

Rimma holds a master’s degree in law from the Moscow State Industrial University, which she obtained in 2017. With over 7 years of experience in the legal field, Rimma specializes in corporate law, commercial law, dispute resolution, and legal consultations in tax and labor law. She has extensive experience in client work, negotiations, and representing company interests in court.

Subhan Namazov

Founder and director of the company

Subhan has many years of experience in business management and development. He holds a master’s degree in management from Western University of Azerbaijan.
His specialization includes corporate law, where he helps companies establish a legal foundation for effective management and growth. In tax law, Subhan ensures the optimization of tax strategies and compliance with legislation, facilitating successful business financial planning. In financial and banking law, he provides consulting on legal aspects of financing and banking operations, which strengthens the financial stability of the company’s clients and partners.
With his expert support in these areas, Subhan successfully helps companies achieve their goals by solving complex legal and managerial tasks.

Panfyorova Sofya

Accountant - specialist

She obtained a bachelor’s degree in world economics from the Azerbaijan State University of Economics. Sofya has experience in accounting and specializes in maintaining records, preparing tax reports, analyzing financial data, and drafting budgets. Her professional practice includes client interaction, financial audits, and ensuring compliance with tax laws.

Yelena Ismailova

Lead human resources accountant

She obtained a bachelor’s degree in Finance and Credit from the Azerbaijan State University of Economics in 2006.
Yelena has more than 15 years of experience in accounting and HR administration. She is skilled in payroll accounting, HR documentation preparation, personnel calculations, and ensuring compliance with labor laws. Her specialization includes drafting employment contracts, calculating leave and benefits, maintaining time records, and liaising with regulatory authorities.

Ismail Ismailov

Client manager

Ismail has experience in client management and support. He obtained a bachelor’s degree from the Academy of Public Administration under the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
Ismail specializes in identifying and attracting new clients, building long-term relationships with corporate partners, and developing and implementing strategies to improve client experience. His skills include negotiations, contract conclusion, and market data analysis to enhance customer service quality.

Gulustan Isaeva

Junior lawyer

Gulustan graduated with a bachelor’s degree in law from Baku State University in 2024.
Gulustan specializes in preparing legal documents, conducting legal research, organizing meetings, and supporting transactions. She is skilled in business correspondence, client consultations, and assisting the chief legal officer in corporate and commercial law matters.

Nazrin Hajiyeva

Director’s assistant

Nazrin obtained a bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Auditing from the Azerbaijan State University of Economics in 2018.
Nazrin has over 5 years of experience in administrative support. She specializes in coordinating work schedules, organizing meetings and events, handling business correspondence, and preparing reports and documentation. Nazrin possesses excellent project management and interpersonal communication skills, which help her effectively collaborate with employees and clients.

Gunel Bayramzade

Business Partner and Executive Director.

Gunel Bayramzade holds a Bachelor’s degree in English from the Azerbaijan University of Languages. With extensive leadership experience, Gunel Bayramzade serves as the Executive Director and Business Partner at SME. Known for her strategic vision and commitment to improving operational efficiency, Gunel Bayramzade has played a key role in shaping the company’s direction and driving its growth. Her focus on fostering innovation and creating a dynamic work environment has helped SME achieve significant success. Through her keen insight into identifying opportunities and dedication to talent development, Gunel Bayramzade ensures that each team member contributes meaningfully to the company’s success. She strives to maintain a forward-thinking approach while achieving both short-term and long-term goals.

Jafar Alizade

Chief financial director

Jafar received a master’s degree in auditing from the Azerbaijan State University of Economics in 2009. Jafar Alizade has over 15 years of experience in financial management and tax matters. He specializes in budget management, financial analysis, investment planning, and tax expense optimization. Jafar has extensive experience in developing and implementing financial strategies to improve company profitability and sustainable growth, as well as in tax accounting and planning. He is responsible for preparing tax reports, optimizing tax obligations, and interacting with tax authorities. Jafar possesses in-depth knowledge of Azerbaijani law and international tax agreements, allowing him to successfully advise clients on taxation matters.

Vugar Abdullayev

Chief accountant

Vugar Abdullayev has over 14 years of experience in accounting. He possesses deep knowledge in financial accounting, tax planning, auditing, and budgeting. He specializes in preparing financial statements, managing tax risks, controlling cash flows, and ensuring regulatory compliance.

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