Pet Transport Italy to Azerbaijan: 2026 Guide
Italy to Azerbaijan benefits from AZAL's direct service between Rome Fiumicino (FCO) and Baku's Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD), making this one of the more direct Italy-to-Caucasus routes. The AQTA import permit (apply 8-10 weeks …
The Italy to Azerbaijan pet import process
Each step must be completed in a precise sequence. Start early. We manage every stage and deadline.
What your pet needs to enter Azerbaijan
Every item below must be in place before your pet can travel. We manage and verify each one.
What this route typically costs
Critical points to read before you book
AZAL's direct Rome to Baku service, if operating cargo live animal freight, removes the need for a hub transfer. Confirm this with AZAL Cargo before planning around the direct option.
Contact AQTA early. Azerbaijan's import requirements can be confirmed at aqta.gov.az and the permit process should be started 8-10 weeks before travel.
The EU pet passport is for intra-EU travel only. For Azerbaijan, use the ASL export health certificate from your local Italian veterinary authority.
Azerbaijan is not an EU member and its import rules are separate from EU pet travel regulations. The process is manageable but requires early planning.
Carriers approved for this route
Not all airlines accept live animals on this route. We know which carriers to use and how to book.
AZAL's direct Rome to Baku option
Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) operates direct scheduled services between Rome Fiumicino (FCO) and Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD). If AZAL Cargo is accepting live animal freight on this service, it is the most direct option for Italy-to-Azerbaijan pet transport, removing the Istanbul hub transfer that other Caucasus-bound routes require.
Contact AZAL Cargo directly to confirm current live animal acceptance on the FCO-GYD route, crate size limits, and seasonal restrictions. If AZAL cargo is not available or does not suit your travel dates, Turkish Airlines via Istanbul (IST) is the established alternative. Turkish operates from both FCO and Milan Malpensa (MXP) to Istanbul, with onward Turkish Airlines service to Baku.
AQTA: Azerbaijan's food safety and import authority
Azerbaijan’s Food Safety Agency (AQTA) at aqta.gov.az is the competent authority for companion animal imports. Contact AQTA to understand the current import permit process and requirements. Azerbaijan’s specific requirements for companion animals from EU member states are managed by AQTA.
The permit application typically requires your pet’s microchip number, vaccination history, breed, and travel date. Apply 8-10 weeks before travel. Once issued, the permit is checked by AQTA’s inspection team at Baku’s Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) alongside the Italian health certificate.
Azerbaijan does not apply EU-style titre test requirements for pets arriving from EU member states. Current rabies vaccination, ISO microchip, and the ASL-endorsed health certificate are the core documentation alongside the import permit.
Italy's ASL export process
For non-EU destinations including Azerbaijan, the Italian export health certificate comes from a veterinario ufficiale at your local ASL (Azienda Sanitaria Locale). The EU pet passport covers intra-EU travel only and is not the correct document for Azerbaijan.
Contact your local ASL veterinary department to book an appointment with the official vet. They examine your pet, check microchip and vaccination records, and issue the certificato sanitario per l’esportazione. The document is then endorsed by the regional or national veterinary authority.
Time the ASL appointment and endorsement within 10 days of travel. ASL offices vary in their appointment availability, so contact them 3-4 weeks before your intended travel date to secure a suitable appointment slot.
Common questions about Italy to Azerbaijan pet transport
Get a free, fully itemised quote for your Italy to Azerbaijan pet move. Our specialists will map out the entire timeline and costs. No surprises.