PCR Test or Antigen Test to enter Azerbaijan
The government of Azerbaijan has updated the COVID-19 travel restrictions for entering Azerbaijan. Travelers no longer need to submit a negative test result to enter and apply for a visa.
Previously,
According to the travel restrictions by the Government of Azerbaijan, all the passengers at the time of their entry into the country must test negative for Covid-19. Hence carrying proof of test and negative status is a must.
It has now become a mandatory requirement along with an active visa and passport. The question here is what type of tests is needed for entry to Azerbaijan? The exact requirements and the new set of rules are mentioned below.
Is PCR Acceptable for Entry to Azerbaijan?
All travellers, including toddlers, are required to take a PCR test before entering Azerbaijan and must be carrying proof of the test upon entry. Infants (Below one year of age) are exempted from the test. However, the parents should be able to present proof of their child's age.
The PCR test requirement applies to both visitors as well as the citizens of Azerbaijan. For passengers flying to the country, it is required to take the test within 72 hours before boarding direct flights. A PCR test should be taken 72 hours before the last direct flight to Azerbaijan if passengers travel through connecting flights.
Is Antigen Test Applicable?
Antigen tests are currently not acceptable for entry in Azerbaijan. The only acceptable tests are the PCR tests.
What are the requirements in the case of fully vaccinated passengers?
Despite being fully vaccinated, all passengers travelling to Azerbaijan must take PCR tests before arrival. This test is also mandatory in the case of passengers who have fully recovered from Covid-19. But the proof of vaccination and recovery together with PCR tests are a must.
Passengers without PCR negative test results can be denied entry into the country. Therefore the tests should always be taken beforehand without risking the entry process. The airports in the country do have some primary medical screening available for the passengers, but that is in no way an alternative to the PCR test results. In case of travelling out of Azerbaijan, Baku has some testing facilities available.
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