Azerbaijan has officially established the legal framework for remote work following the approval of new amendments to the Labor Code. The changes, signed by President Ilham Aliyev, aim to modernize the national labor market by shifting the focus from physical presence to performance-based results.
Speaking to the Operative Information Center-OMM, Member of the Milli Majlis (National Assembly) Vugar Bayramov stated that the implementation of the remote work mechanism will create new opportunities for both employees and employers. Bayramov noted that this model allows specialists to collaborate with multiple employers simultaneously, potentially increasing their overall income. Furthermore, he highlighted that employers could optimize costs by reducing office maintenance and utility expenses.
The MP noted that remote work could lead to higher wages, particularly for highly qualified personnel, as it enables citizens to work for several organizations at once, thereby increasing their total earnings.
Legal expert Shamil Pashayev clarified that the transition to remote work should not serve as a basis for salary reductions. According to Pashayev, wages are determined by the specific job position and duties as defined in the legislation. He added that while base salaries remain stable, additional costs such as electricity, internet, or meal allowances for remote workers are subject to mutual agreement between the employer and the employee.
According to the lawyer, while some employers provide transportation or shuttle services for office-based staff, they may take on obligations to cover utility and internet costs for remote employees. "In some workplaces, lunch expenses are covered by the company, and in a remote work setting, this provision can be replaced by additional payments," Pashayev noted.
These legislative updates come as part of Azerbaijan's broader strategy to digitalize the economy and align national labor standards with international practices. By formalizing "distant work," the government seeks to increase labor market flexibility and support the growing tech and services sectors. This move follows global trends, ensuring that the rights of workers in the digital space are protected under the legal system of the Republic of Azerbaijan.
