Official Import Rules
Azerbaijan requires an import permit from the Food Safety Agency (AQTA), a microchip (ISO 11784/11785), a valid rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days before arrival, and an international veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel endorsed by your government veterinary authority.
The import permit application should be submitted at least 15 business days before travel.
A rabies titer test is not required but may expedite processing.
Medical Roadmap
Get your cat microchipped (ISO 11784/11785).
Administer rabies vaccination at least 30 days before travel.
Apply for import permit from AQTA at least 15 business days before travel.
Obtain a veterinary health certificate within 10 days of departure.
Have documentation endorsed by your government veterinary authority.
Book airline — AZAL (Azerbaijan Airlines) and Turkish Airlines serve Baku.
Present all documents including import permit at Heydar Aliyev Airport customs.
Preparation Checklist
2 months before
1 month before
10 days before
Travel day
Cost Breakdown
Quarantine Information
No quarantine for pets with complete documentation and import permit.
City & Housing Tips
Baku is the main expat destination with modern infrastructure and several good vet clinics. The city is cosmopolitan with a growing pet culture. Apartments in central Baku generally allow pets. Outside Baku, veterinary services are very limited.
Vets & Common Parasites
Baku has several modern veterinary clinics. Vet Republic and Heyvan Klinikası are well-regarded. Costs are moderate. Outside the capital, veterinary care is basic and primarily focused on livestock.
Find Vets in AzerbaijanExit Rules — Leaving Azerbaijan
Exit requirements depend on destination. AQTA can issue export health certificates — allow several business days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — you must apply to AQTA (Food Safety Agency) at least 15 business days before travel. The permit is typically granted for personal pets with proper vaccination records.
AZAL (Azerbaijan Airlines) and Turkish Airlines allow small pets in cabin on some routes. Weight restrictions apply. Confirm with your specific carrier.
Baku is becoming more pet-friendly, with pet shops and vet clinics available. However, it's still less established than European cities. Most parks allow dogs on leashes but attitudes toward cats outdoors vary.
Community Tips
Quarantine is required in Azerbaijan. Plan ahead and book quarantine facilities well in advance.
The rabies titer test for Azerbaijan takes time — blood must be drawn at least 30 days after vaccination, and lab results take 2–3 weeks. Don't leave this to the last minute.
Have you moved to Azerbaijan with your cat? Share your experience and help other travellers.
CatAbroad Editorial
Researched by cat lovers with real international relocation experience. Checked against official government sources and updated regularly. Found an error? Let us know.