Who Needs a Work Permit in Georgia
Foreign nationals intending to engage in employment or entrepreneurial activities in Georgia are required to obtain a work permit. This requirement applies to individuals entering the country for contracted work, self-employment, or business ventures. Employers must ensure that their international hires possess the appropriate authorization to work legally in Georgia.
Types of Work Visas in Georgia
Georgia offers several categories of work visas tailored to different professional activities.
Visa Type | Description |
D1 Visa | Issued to individuals entering Georgia for employment or entrepreneurial purposes. |
D2 Visa | For those engaging in freelancing, scientific, sports, cultural, or educational activities, including interns and press workers. |
D3 Visa | Granted to individuals involved in research activities at Georgian research centers or authorized educational institutions. |
D4 Visa | Designed for family reunification purposes. |
D5 Visa | Issued to individuals who own immovable property in Georgia under specific conditions. |
Common Hiring Scenarios for Georgia
When hiring talent in Georgia, employers typically choose one of three pathways depending on the role, duration, & legal requirements. Below are the most common models.
Use Case 1: Sponsoring a Foreign Employee via Work Permit or Visa
This is the most common route for companies hiring full-time foreign talent in Georgia. To sponsor this visa, an employer (or Playroll as the Employer of Record) must have a registered legal entity in-country and issue a compliant offer of employment.
Key Employer Considerations:
- Sponsorship is required — contractors or freelancers cannot apply under this visa.
- Employees must remain in the approved work location unless authorized to relocate or change employers.
- Processing timelines vary (approximately 15 to 30 business days on average), depending on the consulate or embassy.
This is best for: Long-term roles with in-office or hybrid presence in Georgia.
Use Case 2: Hiring a Foreign Contractor in Georgia
Independent professionals in Georgia can legally work with international clients without employer sponsorship, but must comply with local tax registration and reporting laws.
With Playroll’s Contractor Management solution, you can:
- Draft fully compliant local contractor agreements.
- Automate contractor invoicing and cross-border payments, in Georgian Lari (GEL) or USD.
- Mitigate risk of permanent establishment and contractor misclassification.
This is best for: Freelancers, consultants or project-based roles, especially if the worker already lives in Georgia.
Use Case 3: Relocating an Existing Employee to Georgia
Transferring an existing team member to Georgia? You’ll still need to navigate the same visa and payroll setup process. Even if the employee works for you elsewhere, a local employer of record is required to stay compliant.
EOR’s, like Playroll, handle all local steps, including:
- Work permit sponsorship and immigration paperwork,
- Registration with local authorities and payroll systems,
- Enrollment in mandatory benefits and statutory schemes.
This is best for: Internal transfers or remote-first companies looking to expand into Asia, or talent retention offerings for global mobility programs.
Requirements for a Work Permit in Georgia
To obtain a work permit in Georgia, applicants must meet specific criteria:
- Valid Passport: The applicant's passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay and contain at least one blank page for entry stamps.
- Employment Contract: A signed employment contract with a Georgian employer is mandatory, detailing the job role, salary, and duration of employment.
- Proof of Accommodation: Applicants must provide evidence of accommodation arrangements in Georgia.
- Medical Insurance: Proof of medical insurance coverage for the duration of the stay is required.
- Background Checks: Certificates of good conduct or background checks may be necessary, depending on the visa category.
Georgia Work Permit Application Process
- Step 1: Secure a job offer from a Georgian employer willing to sponsor the visa application.
- Step 2: Gather required documents, including a valid passport, passport-size photos, completed visa application form, employment contract, proof of accommodation, medical insurance, and any required background checks.
- Step 3: Complete the application form accurately.
- Step 4: Submit the completed application and documents to the nearest Georgian consulate or embassy, either online or in person.
- Step 5: Attend an interview at the consulate, if required.
- Step 6: Await processing and monitor the application status.
- Step 7: Apply for a residence permit upon arrival in Georgia from the Public Service Development Agency.
Process for Visa Sponsorship in Georgia
Employers in Georgia play a crucial role in sponsoring work visas for foreign employees. This process involves demonstrating that the position cannot be filled by a local candidate and ensuring compliance with Georgian labor laws. Employers must submit necessary documentation to the Ministry of Internally Displaced Persons from the Occupied Territories, Labor, Health, and Social Affairs. Accurate and timely submission of documents is essential to avoid delays.
What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in Georgia
The fees associated with work permits and visas in Georgia vary depending on the visa type and processing time.
Visa Type | Application Fee |
Work Visa | 200 GEL (approximately $70) |
Business Visa | 150 GEL (approximately $53) |
Student Visa | 120 GEL (approximately $42) |
Family Reunification Visa | 150 GEL (approximately $53) |
Processing Time for a Work Permit or Visa in Georgia
Processing times for work permits and visas in Georgia can vary depending on the visa type and individual circumstances. Generally, work visas are processed within 15 to 30 business days. Applicants are encouraged to apply well in advance of their intended start date to accommodate potential delays.
Work Permit Renewal Periods in Georgia
Renewing a work permit in Georgia requires adherence to specific procedures to ensure continued legal employment for foreign nationals. Employers should initiate the renewal process at least 40 days before the current permit's expiration to avoid complications.
Temporary residence permits are issued for 6 to 12 months and can be extended for up to 11 years, depending on circumstances. After 10 years of continuous residency, individuals may be eligible to apply for permanent residency.
Visa Requirements for Digital Nomads in Georgia
Georgia offers a unique "Remotely from Georgia" program for digital nomads, enabling them to reside and work remotely in the country for up to one year. This program is tailored for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote employees.
- Valid Passport: Applicants must have a passport valid for the duration of their stay.
- Proof of Remote Work: Evidence of employment or business activities conducted outside of Georgia is required.
- Financial Stability: Applicants must demonstrate a monthly income of $2,000 or savings of at least $24,000.
- Health Insurance: Valid health insurance for at least six months is mandatory.
The application process involves gathering necessary documents, submitting an online application through Georgia’s official Nomad Visa portal, and awaiting approval. Processing typically takes around ten business days.
Common Challenges and Tips for Employers Hiring in Georgia
Employers hiring foreign nationals in Georgia often face unique challenges. Proactively addressing these issues can simplify the hiring process and create a more inclusive work environment.
- Navigating Bureaucracy: Complying with Georgia's labor and immigration laws can be complex and time-consuming.
- Cultural Differences: Employers should foster an inclusive workplace to ease cultural transitions for international employees.
- Language Barriers: Offering language training or translation services can help bridge communication gaps in the workplace.
Engaging legal expertise, providing cultural sensitivity training, and implementing language support can address these challenges effectively.