Azerbaijan is making it easier for international visitors to attend the 2025 Formula 1 Grand Prix in Baku by simplifying its visa process.
Since joining the Formula 1 calendar in 2016, the Azerbaijan Grand Prix has become one of the most spectacular events on the championship circuit. Each year, the Baku City Circuit, winding along the Caspian Sea and the walls of the city’s historic Old Town, draws thousands of spectators and attracts global media coverage.
For the 2025 edition, the authorities intend to capitalize on this growing reputation: by simplifying access to the country, Azerbaijan hopes to attract more fans and strengthen its image as a must-see destination for sports and travel enthusiasts.
A visa on arrival in Azerbaijan to simplify travel
On August 25, 2025, President Ilham Aliyev signed a decree allowing foreign nationals and stateless persons arriving at Azerbaijan’s international airports to obtain a visa on arrival between August 25 and September 30, 2025.
To qualify, visitors must present one of the following:
- An official accreditation card issued by Formula One Management Limited or the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), or any document confirming official accreditation
- An accreditation card issued by the Baku City Circuit Operating Company
- A paper or electronic ticket (or proof of purchase) for the 2025 Baku Formula 1 Grand Prix
This temporary measure is designed to speed up entry procedures and encourage the arrival of spectators, journalists, and technical teams from around the world.
The 2025 Azerbaijan Grand Prix will take place from September 19 to 21, 2025, with two free practice sessions on Friday, followed by a third practice session and qualifying on Saturday, ahead of the main race on Sunday, September 21.
A tourism and economic boost for Azerbaijan
During the 2024 Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, officially named the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Azerbaijan Grand Prix, the event broke attendance records with 76,000 spectators over the race weekend.
This surge highlights the growing popularity of the competition and its role in positioning Baku on the global stage. The influx of visitors fueled significant economic activity, benefiting hotels, restaurants, transportation, and retail businesses, reinforcing the Grand Prix’s importance as a driver of tourism and economic growth.
The Baku City Circuit is widely regarded as one of the most technical and visually striking street circuits in Formula 1. Stretching 6.003 km through the heart of the city, it offers a stunning contrast between modern architecture and UNESCO-listed historic landmarks. Drivers face challenging high-speed sections, including a 2.2 km straight along the Caspian Sea, as well as narrow passages near the Old Town walls.
e-Visa: a year-round option for traveling to Azerbaijan
To ensure the smooth implementation of this initiative, several institutions are working closely together:
- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is sharing practical information through its platforms and embassies worldwide.
- The State Migration Service is coordinating with airlines to keep travelers informed.
- Local authorities are promoting the ASAN Visa platform to provide easy access to visa-related information.
Outside of this special F1 measure, travelers can also apply for an electronic visa (e-Visa) via the official ASAN Visa platform. Launched in 2017, the service allows citizens of many countries to obtain an online visa for stays of up to 30 days.
Two application options are available:
- Standard processing: about $29 USD, delivered within three business days
- Urgent processing: about $70 USD, delivered within three hours
For most visitors, the e-Visa remains the fastest and most convenient way to travel to Azerbaijan at any time of the year.
