On Monday, August 25, 2025, Azerbaijan announced a new temporary visa-on-arrival system to make it easier for international visitors to attend the 2025 Formula 1 Grand Prix in Baku.
This move is designed to welcome more international spectators and highlight Baku as a top sports and travel destination.
Azerbaijan Visa-On-Arrival for F1 Ticket Holders
If you’re planning to catch the F1 race live in Baku, here’s the good news: from August 25 to September 30, 2025, Azerbaijan will allow Visa-On-Arrival at its international airports.
To get a visa-on-arrival in Azerbaijan, you’ll need to show one of these three things:
- An accreditation card from Formula One Management or the FIA
- A local accreditation from the Baku City Circuit
- A valid F1 ticket (paper or electronic), or proof you’ve bought one
That’s it. No long forms. No embassy runs. Just land, show your documents, and get your visa at the airport.
Why Azerbaijan Is Doing This
The 2025 Azerbaijan Grand Prix will be held from September 19 to 21, and the government wants to make it easier for fans, teams, and media crews to attend. The goal is simple: boost tourism and show off Baku as a top destination.
In 2024, the race drew 76,000 people over the weekend, its biggest turnout yet. Hotels were full, restaurants were packed, and local businesses got a major boost. Azerbaijan wants to repeat that success.
What Makes the Baku Race Special?
The Baku City Circuit is one of Formula 1’s most scenic and unique tracks. It runs right through the heart of the capital, mixing modern skyscrapers with UNESCO-listed Old Town walls. The 6-km street circuit includes:
- A 2.2 km high-speed straight along the Caspian Sea
- Tight corners through the historic city centre
- A mix of fast sections and technical turns that test even the best drivers
It’s a tough race, but a beautiful one to watch.
Azerbaijan e-Visa Still Available
If you can’t make it to the Grand Prix or prefer sorting things out before you fly? Azerbaijan’s ASAN e-Visa platform is still the easiest option for most travellers. The platform, launched in 2017, allows citizens of many countries to apply online for stays of up to 30 days.
Here’s how it works:
- Standard e-Visa: Costs around $29, takes 3 business days
- Urgent e-Visa: Costs about $70, processed in 3 hours
It’s all done online, and you can stay for up to 30 days. This makes e-visa the easiest and most convienent option for most international travell to Azerbaijan.
Final Thoughts
Even if you’re using the visa-on-arrival option for the race, it’s smart to carry printed copies of your F1 ticket or accreditation. Border officials may want to see it. For everyone else, the ASAN Visa remains a reliable year-round option with clear instructions and quick turnaround times.
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