By AZE.US
Azerbaijan is introducing new declaration procedures for individuals carrying goods across the country’s customs border, under amendments approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.
Under the new rules, travelers using the red channel will be required, where applicable, to submit a simplified customs declaration. The document may be filed either electronically or on paper.
Until now, goods carried in accompanied baggage and items sent separately as unaccompanied baggage were declared using the same simplified form. The procedures will now be separated, with a dedicated declaration form introduced for unaccompanied baggage.
Travelers will also have to file a simplified declaration when their hand luggage or accompanied baggage contains noncommercial goods that are subject to mandatory customs reporting.
The declaration must include information about goods exceeding Azerbaijan’s duty-free value or quantity limits. Travelers will also be required to report:
- precious metals and gemstones;
- foreign currency and securities;
- Azerbaijani currency exceeding the permitted limit;
- religious materials;
- weapons and ammunition;
- mobile devices brought into the country.
The decision is part of a broader effort to modernize Azerbaijan’s customs system.
Separate amendments to the Customs Code took effect on Sept. 3, introducing faster clearance for imported vehicles and other commercial shipments, priority release of goods and expanded use of electronic declarations.
The two measures cover different areas. The amendments already in force primarily concern businesses and foreign trade operations, while the latest Cabinet decision specifically regulates goods carried by individuals in hand luggage, accompanied baggage or unaccompanied baggage.
Authorities say the new procedures will improve the accuracy of customs data, reduce processing errors and accelerate clearance at the border.
The new rules will take effect 30 days after the Cabinet decision is officially published.
AZE.US