The hosting of the thirteenth session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) in Azerbaijan is a significant event in terms of strengthening the country's international role in the fields of urban planning, sustainable development, and urban policy. Azerbaijan's hosting of this event demonstrates both the country's growing reputation on international cooperation platforms and its development strategies and reforms in urban planning. The discussions and events held within the framework of WUF13 will contribute to forming global approaches aimed at making cities more inclusive, safe, and sustainable. Organized by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), this global forum will bring together government officials, experts, urban planners, and researchers from around the world to discuss vital topics such as the future of cities, urban development challenges, and the creation of sustainable living environments. But what are the visa regulations for guests traveling to Azerbaijan for WUF13?

AZERTAC presents the steps taken to simplify visa procedures and the specific visa regulations for guests arriving in the country for the thirteenth session of the World Urban Forum.

Azerbaijan has introduced specific visa regulations for WUF13, providing a free-of-charge “WUF13 Special Visa” for participants confirmed through the UN-Habitat registration system. This visa is primarily intended for event participants, is valid for single entry, and allows a maximum stay of 30 days in the country.

Visa applications can be processed either through a dedicated electronic visa link or via Azerbaijan’s diplomatic missions and consulates abroad. For electronic applications, the online form must be completed and the required documents uploaded; once approved, a download link for the visa is sent to the applicant. Those applying through a consulate must submit the visa application form, a valid passport or other travel document, two color photographs (3x4 cm), and a copy of the electronic confirmation email.

Processing takes three working days after the submission of all required documents, and the validity period is indicated directly on the visa. According to the regulations, the passport’s validity must extend at least three months beyond the visa’s expiration date. Individuals wishing to re-enter the country after departure will need to submit a new visa application. The deadline for visa applications is May 22, and participants are strongly advised to apply on time.

Since a visa-free regime already exists between Azerbaijan and certain countries, citizens of those nations do not need to apply separately for a WUF13 visa. In all other cases, a 24/7 support service is available for participants, reachable via both email (visasupport@wuf13.az) and telephone (+994 55 125 4012).

The simplified visa regime implemented for WUF13 is designed to make participants’ travel to Azerbaijan more convenient and efficient. The primary advantage of this approach is ensuring that international guests can enter the country without spending additional time on visa procedures. Consequently, once registration is confirmed, participants can obtain their visas within a short period and finalize their travel plans with ease.

Another significant advantage is the acceleration of organizational processes. Given that large-scale events like international forums involve thousands of participants, the simplified visa system reduces the workload of consulates and makes document processing more efficient through electronic applications. This creates a more flexible management environment for both participants and organizers.

Furthermore, this system increases the accessibility of WUF13. As experts, researchers, and official representatives from various countries can obtain visas more easily, participation levels rise and global attendance expands. This, in turn, facilitates richer and more diverse discussions at the forum.

Overall, the simplified visa system applied for WUF13 creates organizational convenience, contributes to the expansion of international participation, and plays a vital role in the successful execution of the event.

 

AZERTAC

2026, April 30