Practical guides on how a foreigner can open a business, obtain a residence permit and avoid document mistakes in Azerbaijan. Every article is checked against current legislation.
Owning a company does not by itself give a residence permit, but the head or founder of a company with foreign investment can apply for a temporary one. The company needs paid-up share capital of at least AZN 50,000, and a founder must hold at least 51%. The decision comes within the set period of 15 or 20 business days, and in TCA's practice the first permit through a company is issued for 6 months.
ReadA foreign investor can register an LLC (MMC) in Azerbaijan and own 100% of it, with no local partner or local director. Registration is handled by the State Tax Service and usually takes 2–4 business days from the moment the documents are filed. Registering a company does not give you a residence permit — that is a separate procedure.
ReadOwnership of property worth at least AZN 100,000 (≈ USD 59,000) is a ground to apply for a temporary residence permit. It is not automatic: the State Migration Service reviews the application in 15 or 20 business days.
ReadA small company with annual turnover up to AZN 200,000 can pay 2% of turnover and pay no VAT or profit tax. Larger companies or those in excluded activities fall under the general regime: 20% profit tax and 18% VAT.
ReadBoth countries are visa-free for many nationalities and grant residence through business or property. Georgia is easier to enter; Azerbaijan offers a more predictable procedure and fixed thresholds. We compare the points that actually drive the decision.
ReadFor most foreigners the answer is an LLC: a sole trader in Azerbaijan can only be registered by an individual holding a residence permit, while an LLC is registered for a foreigner without a permit in 2–4 business days and creates a ground for the founder's permit.
ReadA corporate account opens within 3–7 business days after registration; a personal non-resident account usually requires a visit with a passport and proof of address. Banks verify the beneficial owner and the source of funds, so prepare the package in advance.
ReadA 2-page PDF: what to prepare before you travel, where an apostille is needed and where notarisation is enough, and the order of filing.
Tell us what you need and which country you are in now. We will propose a plan with timeline and cost.