President Ilham Aliyev has signed a decree to simplify visa procedures in connection with the Formula 1 race scheduled to take place in Baku.
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, the newly signed document allows individuals traveling to Azerbaijan for the 2026 Formula 1 race to obtain visas at the country's international airports between August 25 and September 30, 2026, upon presentation of the required documentation.
To qualify for the simplified visa process, visitors must present one of the following documents:
- An accreditation card or other document confirming accreditation in accordance with the rules of Formula One Management Limited and the International Automobile Federation (FIA);
- An accreditation card issued by the Baku City Circuit Operations Company;
- A ticket, including an electronic ticket or a document confirming the purchase of a ticket, for the 2026 Formula 1 race in Baku.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has been tasked with informing Formula One Management Limited, the International Automobile Federation, the International Air Transport Association, and relevant foreign authorities about these simplified procedures. Furthermore, the MFA will ensure that information regarding the visa facilitation and the availability of electronic visas through the "ASAN Visa" system is published on the websites of the Ministry and Azerbaijan's diplomatic missions abroad.
Additionally, the State Migration Service is mandated to notify airlines operating flights to Azerbaijan about the simplified visa regime for foreign nationals and stateless persons arriving for the 2026 event.
Since hosting its first Formula 1 Grand Prix in 2016, Azerbaijan has consistently utilized the event to promote Baku as a major international sporting and tourism hub. The race, known for its challenging street circuit through the historic city center, attracts thousands of international visitors annually, necessitating streamlined entry procedures to accommodate the influx of tourists and racing personnel.
