Life in Azerbaijan

Online platforms

The most popular websites for finding apartments:

• OLX.az – a popular classifieds board with a large selection of apartments from owners and agents
• Bina.az – a specialized real estate portal with a convenient filter by district and type of housing
• Korter.az – a service with photos, floor plans, and descriptions of apartments, mainly in new buildings

These resources contain ads from both owners and agents. It is important to read the description carefully and check that the address and photos match the reality.

Real estate agencies

Real estate agents usually charge a commission of 50% of the monthly rent. The advantage of agencies is that they can quickly find options in the desired area and help with the paperwork. The disadvantage is the additional costs.

Searching through social media

There are active Facebook groups and Telegram channels for renting accommodation in Baku. Here you can find options without commission, but the risk of fraud is higher. Before making a deposit, be sure to view the apartment in person and check the owner's documents.

Temporary accommodation for the first few weeks

Many foreigners first book an apartment or flat through Airbnb or Booking.com for 2–4 weeks so that they can take their time finding permanent accommodation once they arrive. This is especially convenient if you are arriving without a clear plan or are unfamiliar with the city.

Azerbaijan has affordable prices for most products:

• A liter of milk — 1 AZN (≈ 0.54 €)
  
• Loaf of white bread — 0.5 AZN (≈ 0.27 €)
• Chicken fillet (1 kg) — 6–8 AZN (≈ 3.2–4.3 €)
  
• Beef (1 kg) — 10–12 AZN (≈ 5.4–6.5 €)
• Eggs (10 pieces) — 2.5–3 AZN (≈ 1.35–1.62 €)
  
• Potatoes (1 kg) — 1–1.5 AZN (≈ 0.54–0.81 €)
• Tomatoes (1 kg, seasonal) — 2–3 AZN (≈ 1.08–1.62 €)
  
• Hard cheese (1 kg) — 7–10 AZN (≈ 3.8–5.4 €)
• Sunflower oil (1 liter) — 4–5 AZN (≈ 2.16–2.7 €)
  
• Sugar (1 kg) — 2.5–3 AZN (≈ 1.35–1.62 €)
• Ground coffee (250 g, imported) — 8–12 AZN (≈ 4.3–6.5 €)

Average food costs:

• One person — from 250–350 AZN/month (≈ 135–190 €) if cooking at home.
• A family of three — about 600–800 AZN/month (≈ 325–430 €).

Fruits and vegetables, especially seasonal ones, are significantly cheaper than in many European countries.

Where to shop

The largest selection of imported and local products can be found in the Bravo, Bazarstore, and Araz supermarkets. Fresh fruit, vegetables, nuts, and spices are best bought at markets such as the Ganjlik or Yashil markets in Baku. Prices at markets are often lower, but it is worth bargaining.

Restaurants and cafes

You can have lunch in a budget cafe for 8–12 AZN (≈ 4.3–6.5 €).

Dinner at a mid-range restaurant for two costs 30–40 AZN (≈ 16–22 €), and at premium establishments — from 70 AZN (≈ 38 €).

National dishes that are definitely worth trying: pilaf, dolma, kebab, kutabi.

Cuisine

The local cuisine is rich in meat, vegetables, and spices, so vegetarians should check the ingredients of dishes in advance. Many establishments offer halal menus. In Azerbaijan, it is not customary to leave large tips — 5–10% of the bill is sufficient.

Tips for newcomers

To save money, locals often buy groceries in bulk at hypermarkets or wholesale markets. If you want to find familiar Ukrainian brands, they are available in large chains, but prices for imported goods are significantly higher.

Public transport in cities

Baku has a metro system (3 lines), buses, and trolleybuses. A single trip costs AZN 0.3 (≈ US$0.07) and is paid for with a BakuCard, which is valid for both the metro and buses. A monthly pass costs around AZN 30 (≈ US$16). The metro is modern, with air-conditioned cars and announcements in Azerbaijani and English.

Taxis

Bolt, Uber, and local apps (Maxim, 189 Taxi) are available in most cities. A short trip in Baku costs 2–6 AZN (≈ 1–3 €). During rush hour, the fare may increase. To save money, you can use “economy” fares or shared rides.

Intercity transportation

Buses, trains, and domestic flights operate between cities. A bus from Baku to Ganja costs around 15–20 AZN (≈ 8–11 €), while a train is slightly more expensive. Buta Airways offers inexpensive tickets for domestic flights (from 30–40 AZN, ≈ 16–22 € one way).

Your own car

Fuel costs in Azerbaijan are lower than in most European countries: AI-92 gasoline costs about 1 AZN (≈ 0.54 €) per liter.

If you plan to travel to Azerbaijan by car with a US registration, the first thing you need to do is obtain a valid Green Card.

Without a Green Card, you will have to purchase frontier insurance at the border — this is local insurance that is only valid in Azerbaijan and is usually more expensive. For example, if you are traveling for 10 days and insurance is sold for a minimum of one month, you will overpay. In addition, it will take time to process, and you risk being delayed at the checkpoint.

A Ukrainian driver's license is sufficient for driving, but for long-term stays, it is recommended to obtain a local license.

💡The most convenient way is to apply for a Green Card online before departure — through the Visit Ukraine platform. This way, you will avoid queues and overpayments and receive an electronic policy that is immediately valid in Azerbaijan.

Tips for adaptation

It is worth downloading apps for transport schedules and taxi orders before you move. Cash payments are not accepted on public transport, so a BakuCard is essential.

Opening an account

You can open a bank account in Azerbaijan at major banks such as Kapital Bank, Pasha Bank, and International Bank of Azerbaijan.

To open an account, you will need:

• Foreign passport – the main document for identification
• Visa or residence permit (if applicable) – depending on the requirements of the specific bank
• Local registration (residence certificate or rental agreement) – required by most banks, but some fintechs and online banks may open an account without it
• Identification code (Taxpayer Identification Number – TIN) – issued by local tax authorities; some banks can help you obtain it when opening an account
• Proof of income or employment contract – not always required, but may be needed to open a credit card or deposit account

Some banks open accounts for foreigners on the day of application, others within 2–3 business days.

Cash and ATMs

The national currency is the Azerbaijani manat (AZN).

ATMs are available almost everywhere, but there may be few in remote areas. Cash withdrawals from foreign cards are subject to a commission (usually 1–2%).

Cashless payments are prevalent in cities, but it is better to have cash in villages and markets.

International transfers

Most banks support international SWIFT transfers. For fast transactions, you can use Western Union or MoneyGram. Commissions vary from 1% to 5%, so it is worth comparing the terms of several institutions. For transfers to Ukraine, it is sometimes more profitable to use online services such as Wise or Revolut (if you have an account outside Azerbaijan).

Online banking

Most banks have mobile apps with an English interface. You can use them to pay for utilities, mobile communications, and taxes. Popular local financial services MilliON and E-Pul allow you to quickly top up your accounts and make online payments.

There are three main mobile operators in Azerbaijan: Azercell (best coverage, especially in mountainous areas), Bakcell (good internet rates) and Nar (often the cheapest option). All offer prepaid and contract plans.

Cost and rates

A starter pack costs 5–10 AZN (≈ 2.7–5.4 €) and usually includes gigabytes of internet and minutes for domestic calls. A 15 GB mobile internet package costs around 15 AZN (≈ 8 €). Contract plans may be more affordable, but they usually require local registration.

In cities, 4G coverage is stable, with internet speeds of up to 50 Mbit/s. In remote areas and mountains, the signal may be weak or switch to 3G. Azercell is considered the most reliable operator for those who travel frequently within the country.

Where to buy a SIM card

SIM cards are sold at official operator stores, large shopping centers, and sometimes at the airport. You will need your passport to purchase one.

It is not recommended to purchase a card from unofficial outlets due to the risk of registration under another person's name.

If you plan to actively use the internet immediately upon arrival, it is most convenient to buy a SIM card at the airport or in the center of Baku. For calls to the US, it is advantageous to connect international packages or use messengers via Wi-Fi.

Education

Azerbaijan has an 11-year school education system. State schools are free for citizens, but foreigners can also study there, especially if they have local registration. The main language of instruction is Azerbaijani, but some schools have classes taught in Russian.

Private and international schools

There is a wide selection of private schools with English or bilingual (English/Russian) programs. In Baku, there are the British School in Baku, Baku Oxford School, ADA International School, and others.

Tuition fees range from AZN 5,000 to AZN 15,000 per year (≈ €2,700–8,100) depending on the level and program.

Preschool education

In Azerbaijan, preschool education is provided by both public and private institutions. State kindergartens are the most affordable option — fees are usually nominal, around AZN 20–50 per month (≈ €11–27), but places are limited and waiting lists can be long. Teaching and education are conducted in Azerbaijani, sometimes with elements of Russian.

Private kindergartens offer smaller groups, modern equipment, meals, developmental programs, and sometimes bilingual education (Azerbaijani + English or Russian). The cost depends on the level of the institution and the district: in Baku, for example, prices start at AZN 200 per month (≈ €110) and can reach AZN 500 (≈ €270) and above.

To enroll in a kindergarten, you usually need:

• parents' passports,
• child's birth certificate,
• medical certificate,
• vaccination documents.

Private institutions sometimes conduct interviews or trial days to assess the child's readiness.

Extracurricular activities

In large cities, particularly in Baku, there are state-run creative centers and sports schools, where classes are often free or require a nominal fee.

Popular activities include:

• soccer,
• volleyball,
• swimming,
• dancing,
• visual arts,
• and musical instruments.

Private studios offer modern activities such as robotics, programming, theater arts, and choreography. The cost depends on the format — group classes cost from 30–50 AZN per month (≈ 16–27 €), while individual classes are significantly more expensive.

State healthcare system

In state hospitals, foreigners are provided with services on a paid basis. The quality of service depends on the specific institution: in large cities, the equipment is more modern, while in the regions it is more modest. Queues at state polyclinics can be long, and appointments with narrow specialists may need to be made several weeks in advance.

What Ukrainians need to get into a public hospital:

1. Foreign passport. Required for identification. Even if treatment is paid, documents are checked at the entrance or during registration.
2. Registration of residence (temporary or permanent). Many hospitals require proof of address in Azerbaijan (rental agreement or certificate from the police/immigration service) for admission to public healthcare facilities.
3. Medical insurance or cash payment. Foreigners pay for consultations and treatment at the established rates if they do not have a local insurance policy. If you have international medical insurance, you must present it — many hospitals accept it as a basis for cashless payment through an insurance company.
4. Patient medical card. If this is not your first visit, it is a good idea to have your discharge papers or test results with you so that the doctor can see your treatment history. On your first visit, you will be given a local patient card.

Private clinics

There are private medical centers with English-speaking staff in Baku and other large cities. Popular ones include MediClub, Caspian International Hospital, and German Medical Center. The cost of a general practitioner's appointment starts at 20 AZN (≈ 11 €), and a specialist's consultation starts at 30 AZN (≈ 16 €).

Cost of medical services

A blood test costs from 10 AZN (≈ 5.4 €), an ultrasound scan — from 25 AZN (≈ 13.5 €), an MRI — from 150 AZN (≈ 81 €). Medicines can be purchased at pharmacies without a prescription, but some drugs that are freely available in Ukraine may require a doctor's prescription here.

Medical insurance

Medical insurance is not mandatory for foreigners, but it significantly reduces the cost of treatment and facilitates access to quality services.

💡 If you are planning a long stay, it is more advantageous to take out local or international medical insurance. You can purchase a policy online through Visit Ukraine in just a few minutes.

Language courses and adaptation centers

The official language of Azerbaijan is Azerbaijani. Ukrainians who speak Turkish or Russian will find it easier to communicate, as these languages are partially understood by the locals. However, for full integration, it is worth learning Azerbaijani — knowledge of the language greatly simplifies finding work, completing paperwork, and everyday tasks.

Where to learn the language:

• Municipal courses — many cities offer free or discounted programs for foreigners.
• Private language schools — Azeri Language School and Dil Kursları are popular centers in Baku, offering individual and group lessons (from 80–150 AZN ≈ 43–81 € per month).
• Online learning — there are video courses, which are convenient for those who live in the regions.
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Adaptation centers

In Baku and several large cities, there are cultural and integration centers that help foreigners with everyday issues, hold meetings, lectures, and interest clubs. Here you can get advice on paperwork, finding a job, and housing.

Safety

The country is considered safe to live in, with a low crime rate, but pickpocketing occurs in large cities, especially in tourist areas. It is advisable to follow standard safety rules: do not leave valuables unattended and use reliable transport at night.

Leisure and travel around the country

Azerbaijan offers a variety of leisure activities: from the beaches of the Caspian Sea and mountain resorts to visits to wine-producing regions.

Average cost of leisure activities:

• cinema — 10 AZN (≈ 5.4 €),
• excursion or tour — 50–100 AZN (≈ 27–54 €),
• concerts by local performers — from 20 AZN (≈ 11 €), large festivals or performances by stars — from 50 AZN (≈ 27 €),
• gym membership in Baku — from 40 AZN (≈ 22 €) per month in an average club.

Fines and local rules

Azerbaijan has strict public order and traffic rules, and violations are often punished with heavy fines.

Common fines:

• Traffic violations — speeding between 10 and 20 km/h carries a fine of AZN 40 (≈ US$22), between 20 and 40 km/h — AZN 100 (≈ US$54).
• Parking in a prohibited place — from 20 AZN (≈ 11 €).
  
• Using a mobile phone while driving without a hands-free device — 50 AZN (≈ 27 €).
  
• Smoking in prohibited places — 30 AZN (≈ 16 €).
• Violation of public order — a fine or administrative arrest, depending on the situation.

In Azerbaijan, alcohol consumption in public places (except restaurants and cafes) is strictly prohibited. It is also not recommended to photograph government buildings, military facilities, or the police — this may lead to document checks or conflict with law enforcement officers.

💡 Tip: If you rent a car, be aware that fines may be automatically sent to the rental company. When leaving the country with your own car, you must pay any outstanding fines immediately, otherwise you may not be allowed to leave the country.

✅ Visit Ukraine services for Ukrainians in Azerbaijan

To make your life in Azerbaijan comfortable and safe, it is important to take care of basic household and legal issues in advance. The Visit Ukraine platform will help you adapt faster and feel confident in your new country. Here you can:

🔹 Get international medical insurance online — to guarantee medical assistance in any situation

🔹 Order a “Green Card” for your car — to enter Azerbaijan without any problems and avoid overpaying for border insurance

🔹 Get legal advice — on renting accommodation, obtaining local documents, opening a bank account, or employment issues

🔹 Get verified information about obtaining a residence permit or citizenship

💙 We are here to ensure that every Ukrainian abroad has access to support, useful services, and verified information.