Residence and Work Permits in Georgia: The 2026 Rules Explained
Last updated: October 2026
Since 1 March 2026, foreigners who work or do business in Georgia need the legal right to work. A May 2026 amendment exempts most people who serve only foreign clients. Which permit you need, if any, depends on who pays you and how long you stay. We check your case on a free call and handle the application.
Do you need a work permit?
| Your situation | Work permit needed? |
|---|---|
| You work remotely only for clients or an employer outside Georgia | Generally no, since the May 2026 amendment |
| You hold a special residence permit issued under a government program | No |
| You come for a short, specific project or event | Generally no |
| You are employed by a Georgian company | Yes |
| You provide services to Georgian clients as an Individual Entrepreneur | Yes, in most cases |
Working without the right to work can be fined GEL 2,000 for the worker and for the employer, with higher fines for repeat violations.
Residence permit options
- IT and digital nomad residence permit. For IT professionals, including Individual Entrepreneurs with Small Business Status. Requires at least two years of IT experience and income of at least USD 25,000 in the past year. Issued for up to 3 years and can be extended.
- Work residence permit. For employees of Georgian companies and self-employed people who meet the income or turnover threshold. Issued for up to a year at a time and renewable.
- Investment residence permit. Based on real estate or investment in Georgia above the legal threshold.
- Family residence permit. For spouses, children and parents of permit holders.
Many nationalities can also stay in Georgia visa-free for up to a year. Since 2026, travellers must also have health insurance to enter. Health insurance guide →
How we help
- Free call. We work out whether you need a work permit, a residence permit, both or neither.
- Document checklist for your exact case.
- Translation and notarization of foreign documents.
- Submission of the application and follow-up until the decision.
- Renewals. We remind you before your permit expires.
Price
Price on request; it depends on the permit and the number of family members.
Frequently asked questions
I’m a freelancer with only foreign clients. Do I need a work permit?
Since the May 2026 amendment, generally no. We confirm it for your case on the call.
Does a residence permit make me a tax resident?
No. Tax residency depends on days spent in Georgia, mainly 183 or more in any 12-month period.
Can I apply while I am outside Georgia?
Some steps can be done by power of attorney; for most residence permits you need to be in Georgia when you apply.
Can my family join me?
Yes, through a family residence permit.
Related: March 2026 labor migration amendments → · May 2026 update: no permit needed →
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