Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) Program in Azerbaijan
- Emil Khudiyev (Lawyer)
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The Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) Program offers extensive opportunities for highly skilled migrants and their family members to come to Azerbaijan, live in the country, and engage in labor activities.
The pass.gov.az portal was developed to enable the acceptance and processing of applications submitted by program participants, through “one-stop shop” principle. The portal also provides various opportunities for business entities (employers) operating in the Republic of Azerbaijan.
Foreigners wishing to participate in the program can register through this portal and submit an application electronically, providing their education, work experience and other information.
What is Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) Program?
The Highly Skilled Migrant Program was established by the Order of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan dated June 6, 2024, in order to expand the pathways for highly skilled foreigners to engage in paid labor activity in the Republic of Azerbaijan.
Foreigners and stateless persons who consider themselves experts in the relevant field can apply to become a winner of the Highly Skilled Migrant Program. Foreigners wishing to participate in the program can register through this portal and submit an application electronically, providing their education, work experience and other information.
Benefits of Highly Skilled Migration Program in Azerbaijan
1. Facilitated visa procedures.
HSM Program winners can enter the country by obtaining a simplified “business trip” entry visa through embassy or e-visa portal, by submitting an electronic document confirming that they are considered highly qualified migrants.
2. Exemption from obtaining a work permit.
HSM Program winners are exempted from the requirement to obtain a work permit to engage in labor activities in their field of expertise.
3. Long-term residence permits.
HSM Program winners can obtain a temporary residence permit in Azerbaijan for a period of up to 3 years within a shorter processing period. Requirement of staying in Azerbaijan for more than 90 days in any 180 days during their temporary residence does not apply to HSM Program winners.
In addition, a highly skilled migrant residing temporarily in the Republic of Azerbaijan continuosly for 2 years can apply for obtaining a permanent residence permit.
4. Concessions for family members.
Family members of HSM Program winners can obtain temporary and permanent residence permits. Family members include spouse, children under 18, disabled children who have reached the age of 18, and parents under his/her custody.
Criterias for Highly Skilled Migrant Program in Azerbaijan
The application for Highly Skilled Migrant Program is evaluated according to the following criterias and the corresponding scores:
1. Experience in the field of expertise – 0-35 points;
2. Alignment with the directions of socio-economic development of the country – 0-20 points;
3. Education – 0-15 points;
4. Financial security – 0-15 points;
5. Positive impact on the domestic labor market – 0-10 points;
6. Foreign language skills – 0-5 points.
The passing score for a foreigner has been set at 70 points out of 100 points.
FAQ
Can employers in Azerbaijan hire my as a HSM?
Employers can request the availability of foreign specialists in required fields by registering on the pass.gov.az portal. Employers are provided with information about foreign specialists who meet the criteria specified in the survey and agree to share their personal information with employers.
Should I stay in Azerbaijan after winning HSM Program?
Requirement of staying in Azerbaijan for more than 90 days in any 180 days during their temporary residence does not apply to HSM Program winners.
How EMZE can help you?
As an experienced migration specialist, I am always ready to provide you with legal assistance in obtaining permanent or temporary residence in Azerbaijan (PR/TRP). I also offer professional consultation on starting a business in Azerbaijan, company formation, opening bank accounts and other related matters.
You can also find more details about my migration law services in the “My Services” section.
There is no need to search for another lawyer — Just Call Emil!
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