An Overview of Company Registration in Azerbaijan

Are you planning to set up a company in Azerbaijan? Youโ€™re in the right place. Enterslice, a leading consultancy firm, offers complete assistance for company registration in Azerbaijan, guiding you through every step of the process.

Azerbaijan, located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, is a democratic republic known for its rich history, culture, and vast natural resources, including petroleum and natural gas. To start any lawful business activity in the country, the first step is company formation in Azerbaijan.

Under Azerbaijani law, both foreign individuals and entities enjoy the same rights as local residents when it comes to registering a business. This makes Azerbaijan an attractive destination for international entrepreneurs.

The most common and preferred form of business structure in the country is the Limited Liability Company (LLC). The State Registration Chamber of the Ministry of Justice is the main authority responsible for online company registration in Azerbaijan. Additionally, every company must register with the State Tax Service to obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) and ensure compliance with tax regulations.

Strategic Bridge between Europe and Asia

Specialized Commercial Courts

Key Industries- Oil and Gas, Renewable Energy, etc.

Growing IT Talent Pool

European-style Culture

Youth Population- 2.2. Million Approx.

Register a Company in Azerbaijan with Enterslice

Azerbaijan welcomes foreign investors with 100% ownership rights, tax incentives, and a simple company registration process. Register a company in Azerbaijan with Entersliceโ€™s expert-led support.

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Business Structures for Company Incorporation in Azerbaijan

The different types of company incorporation in Azerbaijan are as follows:

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is the most preferred form of business entity for Company Registration in Azerbaijan. It requires at least one individual to establish the company, making it ideal for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). There is no minimum share capital requirement, and the founders are not personally liable for the companyโ€™s debts or obligations.

Joint Stock Company (JSC)

A Joint Stock Company is a suitable business structure for entrepreneurs and investors looking to operate large-scale businesses in Azerbaijan. It requires at least one shareholder, and the shares of the company are transferable. These shares can also be traded in public markets, providing greater flexibility and investment opportunities. The liability of each shareholder is limited to the value of their shareholding in the company.

Sole Proprietorship in Azerbaijan

A Sole Proprietorship is the simplest form of business structure in Azerbaijan, ideal for individual entrepreneurs. It does not require any share capital, making it easy and cost-effective to set up. However, the owner has unlimited liability, meaning they are personally responsible for all business debts and obligations.

This type of business is commonly chosen for professional services such as accounting, consulting, and similar activities.

Partnerships in Azerbaijan

A partnership is a common business structure for company registration in Azerbaijan, mainly used by small businesses. It requires at least two partners and can be either a general or limited partnership. In a general partnership, all partners share equal rights and liabilities. In a limited partnership, at least one general partner manages the business, while limited partners have liability only up to their contributions. There is no minimum capital requirement, and the business is formed through a partnership deed.

Certification Mark

Certification marks registered to ascertain adherence to local regulations provide consumer assurance concerning the quality, origin, or method of production of goods or services. Additionally,

Closed Joint Stock company in Azerbaijan

A Closed Joint Stock Company (CJSC) in Azerbaijan is a business entity where the shareholders have limited liability, meaning they are only responsible for the companyโ€™s obligations up to their share contributions. Unlike an open joint stock company, a CJSC cannot issue or trade its shares publicly. This type of company structure also allows foreign investors to establish branches or subsidiaries in Azerbaijan as extensions of their parent companies.

What are the Benefits of Company Registration in Azerbaijan?

Some of the benefits of company registration in Azerbaijan are as follows:

Business-friendly environment

Business-friendly environment

Azerbaijan offers a highly supportive, pro-business environment that encourages rapid growth and innovation. The country ranks well on the World Bankโ€™s Ease of Doing Business Index, making business operations efficient, smooth, and cost-effective.

Competitive tax system

Competitive tax system

Azerbaijan offers a competitive corporate tax rate along with various financial incentives, especially for businesses operating in Special Economic Zones. This favourable tax environment helps reduce operational costs and allows companies to reinvest their savings into further growth and expansion.

Simplified process

Simplified process

Company registration in Azerbaijan is a straightforward and fully digitized process. It takes only a few days to complete, ensuring a quick and hassle-free registration experience.

Exclusive Rights

World-class infrastructure

Azerbaijan boasts world-class infrastructure with a well-developed network of transportation systems, including ports, railways, and highways that connect businesses to regional and global markets. The country also offers a highly skilled and multilingual workforce with expertise across diverse industries.

How to Register a Company in Azerbaijan?

The step-by-step process to register a company in Azerbaijan is as follows:

Choose the Legal Structure and Company Name

Begin by selecting the most suitable business structure for your company, such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), Joint Stock Company (JSC), branch, or subsidiary.
Next, choose a unique company name and verify its availability online to avoid any legal conflicts or duplication.

Prepare and Collect Required Documents

Gather all the necessary documents according to your chosen legal structure.
Note that all registration forms and supporting documents must be prepared in the Azerbaijani language.

Pay the Fees and Deposit the Charter Capital

After preparing the documents, pay the applicable state registration fee and deposit the charter (initial) capital in a local bank. Charter capital requirements vary by business type. For example, LLCs have no minimum capital requirement, whereas JSCs require a minimum of 2,000 AZN (approximately USD 1,200).

Apply for and Obtain the Registration Certificate

Submit the complete application, including proof of state fee payment and confirmation of charter capital deposit, to the State Tax Service of Azerbaijan. Once approved, you will receive the Registration Certificate, Tax Identification Number (TIN), and the Company Charter.

Commence Business Operations

After successful company registration in Azerbaijan, the company can begin its operations. Ensure you obtain an ASAN Imza (electronic signature) and open a corporate bank account, as these are essential for business transactions in Azerbaijan. Additionally, depending on your business activity, you may need to secure specific licenses or permits.

How Much Time It Takes for Company Registration in Azerbaijan?

The time taken to complete company registration in Azerbaijan is around 7 to 10 working days, provided all documentation is accurately ready to submit the application to the concerned office.

Choose the Legal Structure and Name: 1โ€“2 days

Select a suitable business type (LLC, JSC, branch, or subsidiary) and verify the company name to avoid duplication.

Prepare Required Documents: 2โ€“3 days

Collect and prepare all necessary registration documents in Azerbaijani, ensuring they are notarized or apostilled.

Pay Fees and Deposit Capital: 1โ€“2 days

Pay the state registration fee and deposit the charter capital in a local bank, such as LLC: No minimum capital, JSC: Minimum AZN 2,000.

Obtain Registration Certificate: 3โ€“5 days

Submit the application to the State Tax Service and receive the Registration Certificate, TIN, and Company Charter.

Start Operations: 2โ€“3 days

Obtain ASAN Imza (electronic signature), open a corporate bank account, and secure any required licenses or permits.

What are the Essential Documents for Company Incorporation in Azerbaijan?

The list of documents required for Company incorporation in Azerbaijan is as follows:

An application form

Power of attorney

Name and address of the business

A notarized lease (if any)

VAT certificate

A bank contract with the details of a business corporate account

Companyโ€™s charter (outlining the companyโ€™s purpose, structure and rules)

The companyโ€™s establishment decision

Payment receipt

Taxation & Accounting for Company Formation in Azerbaijan

The list of taxation and accounting for company formation in Azerbaijan is as follows:

Corporate Tax

The corporate tax rate is 20% of business net profit, which is the difference between total income and tax deductions. These derivations incorporate working bills, devaluation, finance bills and different bills related to the activity of the business.

Value-added tax (VAT)

The VAT rate in Azerbaijan is 18%, applicable to most goods and services sold within the country. Businesses with an annual taxable turnover exceeding AZN 200,000 are required to register as VAT payers.

Can Foreigner obtain Company Registration in Azerbaijan?

Yes, foreigners can obtain company registration and complete the Company Setup in Azerbaijan without facing major restrictions. The country actively encourages foreign investment and allows 100% foreign ownership in most sectors, providing equal opportunities for both foreign and local entrepreneurs.

Investors can choose from several legal structures, such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), Joint Stock Company (JSC), or a branch or representative office of an existing foreign company. To complete the registration process, foreign applicants must submit notarized and apostilled documents, including a passport copy, proof of address, and in some cases, a Power of Attorney authorizing a local representative to manage administrative formalities.

The entire procedure of company registration in Azerbaijan is transparent and can be completed efficiently with local professional support. Foreign-owned businesses enjoy the same legal rights, tax benefits, and investment protections as domestic entities, making Azerbaijan an attractive and investor-friendly destination for establishing and expanding business operations.

UAE Trade Mark Registration

What are the Key Requirements for Company Formation in Azerbaijan?

Some of the requirements for company formation in Azerbaijan are as follows:

  • Company Name Verification :- The applicant must check and reserve the proposed company name to avoid legal issues at a later stage.
  • Identification Documents :- Notarized and apostilled copies of passports and address proof of all directors or founders.
  • Power of Attorney :- A notarized Power of Attorney (POA) authorizing a local representative in Azerbaijan to deal with government authorities and banks.
  • Business Activity Description :- A detailed outline of the companyโ€™s intended business operations.
  • Business Geography :- Information on the geographical scope or location of business activities.
  • Director and Shareholder Details :- Occupation and background details of directors, shareholders, attorneys, or beneficial owners.
  • Source of Funds :- Disclosure of the source of funds to be used for business operations. It is one of the key requirements for company registration in Azerbaijan.

What are the Crucial Steps After Company Formation in Azerbaijan?

After completing the Company Formation in Azerbaijan, there are a few essential steps to take before starting business operations:

  • Obtain ASAN Imza (Mobile Signature) :- This is mandatory for the legal representative of the company to carry out official and digital transactions.
  • Get a Corporate Seal :- A company seal is required for daily business activities and document authentication.
  • Open a Corporate Bank Account :- Use the tax certificate issued after registration to open your companyโ€™s bank account.
  • Register the Directorโ€™s Employment Agreement :- The employment agreement of the companyโ€™s director must be registered with the state registry.
  • Financial Statements :- All companies registered in Azerbaijan must maintain accounting records and submit financial statements quarterly, while VAT returns must be prepared and submitted monthly.
UAE Trade Mark Registration

Why Trust Enterslice for Azerbaijan Company Formation Services?

With over a decade of experience in global company incorporation, offshore structuring, and regulatory compliance, Enterslice provides complete assistance in setting up your business in Azerbaijan. Our goal is to make the Azerbaijan company registration process seamless, efficient, and fully compliant with local laws. Given below are the reasons why we are the first choice for Azerbaijan company formation services-

  • Expert consultation to evaluate your business goals and structure requirements
  • 99% success rate in company registration in Azerbaijan
  • Streamlined documentation and filing process, ensuring quick company registration in Azerbaijan
  • Comprehensive support for foreign investors, including help with corporate bank account opening
  • Experienced legal and compliance professionals with deep knowledge of Azerbaijanโ€™s regulations
  • Full compliance assurance with local corporate laws and reporting standards
  • Post-incorporation assistance, including annual filings, renewals, and statutory compliance
  • Transparent pricing with no hidden costs
  • 24/7 client support for all business-related queries

FAQs for Azerbaijan Company Setup

In Azerbaijan, businesses can be established as a Limited Liability Company (LLC), Joint Stock Company (JSC), Closed Joint Stock Company (CJSC), Sole Proprietorship, or Partnership. Each structure varies in liability, ownership, and capital requirements, offering flexibility for both small and large enterprises.

Before registering a company in Azerbaijan, you must complete certain preparatory steps such as setting up a legal address, obtaining legal confirmation of the lease, notarizing the company documents, and depositing the minimum capital (if applicable). These steps ensure your application meets the legal and administrative requirements for incorporation.

A legal address serves as the companyโ€™s official registered office and is recorded in the Unified State Register of Companies. It must be a verified business location within Azerbaijan, and the lease agreement for the premises should be legally confirmed before submission to the registration authority.

To register a company in Azerbaijan, certain key requirements must be met. These include having at least one director in the case of a Limited Liability Company (LLC), appointing a statutory representative for branches and representative offices, and fulfilling the minimum share capital requirement as prescribed by law.

The time taken to complete company registration in Azerbaijan is around 7 to 10 working days, provided all documentation is accurately ready to submit the application to the concerned office.

Generally, international sponsors enjoy the same rights as local sponsors. However, depending on the specific industry they operate in, they may be required to obtain additional permits or licenses to conduct business legally in Azerbaijan.

No, there is no such legal requirement of a local partner for company registration in Azerbaijan, unlike in some other countries. Further, foreign individuals or companies can own 100% of the companyโ€™s shares.

Azerbaijan Company Formation is a one-time process. Once the company is registered, it remains valid indefinitely. There is no requirement for renewal or extension, and no annual registration fees are required.

The general corporate tax rate for businesses in Azerbaijan is 20%. Additionally, there are tax exemptions and incentives available for specific types of businesses, depending on their nature and sector.

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