Azerbaijan (AZ)
Oil-rich Caspian nation blending ancient heritage with a modern capital, offering low living costs, a strategic Silk Road location, and a rapidly growing expat community in energy, diplomacy, and tech sectors.
Currency & Money
Practical money tips for living in Azerbaijan.
Denominations
Coins: 1, 3, 5, 10, 20, 50 qəpik; Notes: ₼1, ₼5, ₼10, ₼20, ₼50, ₼100.
Payment Culture
Cash is important outside Baku — always carry manat. Cards are widely accepted in Baku's modern establishments, shopping malls and hotels, but small shops, taxis, bazaars and rural areas remain largely cash-only. The AZN is pegged to a USD/EUR currency basket at approximately 1 USD = 1.70 AZN.
ATM Tips
ATMs are plentiful in Baku. Outside the capital — particularly in rural regions and smaller cities — carry sufficient cash as ATMs are sparse. Kapital Bank and ABB ATMs are most widespread. Withdraw AZN rather than USD as manat is the local currency.
Exchange Tips
Exchange only at licensed bank branches and official exchange offices (mübadilə). Never use street money changers. Keep receipts from all currency exchanges — they may be required when converting back or for banking compliance. The AZN is tightly managed and not freely convertible in large amounts.
Pro tip: Best apps for expats
- • Wise — Send money internationally at near-interbank rates
- • Revolut — Multi-currency account, free ATM withdrawals (limits apply)
- • N26 — German IBAN, free account, good for EU residents