Doing Business in Azerbaijan: Legal and Practical Aspects

Doing Business in Azerbaijan:

Azerbaijan as an investment hub

In recent years, Azerbaijan has become an attractive destination for foreign investors. The country demonstrates stable economic growth and is actively developing key sectors such as oil and gas, IT, logistics, and agriculture. The government continues to implement reforms aimed at simplifying company registration and improving the overall investment climate.

Business registration: key steps

The process of establishing a company in Azerbaijan consists of several stages:

  1. Choosing the legal form (LLC, JSC, sole proprietorship, or branch office).
  2. Preparing the incorporation documents – charter, foundation agreement, and notarized translations.
  3. Submitting the application to the State Tax Service. The registration process usually takes 2–3 business days.
  4. Obtaining a tax identification number (TIN) and an extract from the state register.
  5. Opening a bank account and obtaining an electronic signature (E-imza).

For foreign founders, documents must be apostilled and notarized. Errors in the charter or non-compliance of the legal address with legal requirements may result in a refusal of registration.

Tax and Legal Features:

  • For LLCs, the minimum authorized capital is not established; for JSCs, it varies from 10 million (for closed joint-stock companies) to 20 million AZN (for open joint-stock companies).
  • С 2025 года срок подачи изменений в реестр сокращён с 40 до 15 рабочих дней.
  • Legislation has strengthened requirements for the transparency of the ownership structure of ultimate beneficiaries.
  • Certain types of activities require a license or special permit.

Support for Foreign Investors

The international law and consulting firm EXPERT SM has been providing services in Azerbaijan for more than twenty years. It is worth noting that the firm was a member of the American Chamber of Commerce in Azerbaijan (AMCHAM Azerbaijan). This experience reflects the high level of trust in the company and its active participation in the country’s business community.

The Role of “EXPERT SM”

The international law and consulting firm EXPERT SM has been operating in Azerbaijan for more than twenty years. It is worth noting that the firm was a member of the American Chamber of Commerce in Azerbaijan (AMCHAM Azerbaijan). This experience demonstrates the high level of trust placed in the company and its active involvement in the country’s business environment.

EXPERT SM provides the following services:

  • Registration of companies of all legal forms (LLCs, JSCs, and branches of foreign companies);
  • Legal support for transactions and court representation;
  • Tax and accounting consulting;
  • Audit and legal analysis of business processes;
  • Support for foreign investors in interactions with government authorities and banks.

Why Choose “EXPERT SM”

  • Experience and Reputation: over 10 years in the market and membership in international business associations.
  • Comprehensive Approach: full range of services from company registration to tax and accounting support.
  • International Standards: operation in accordance with ISO 9001 standards and use of CRM systems for efficient client service.
  • Client-Centered Focus: confidentiality, legal compliance, and risk minimization.

Doing business in Azerbaijan offers wide opportunities but requires deep understanding of local legislation and practice. EXPERT SM provides complete legal and consulting support, starting from registration to strategic advisory, helping both local and foreign investors successfully develop their business in Azerbaijan.

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