Navigating Georgia's Visa and Immigration Framework for Global Business Expansion

Georgia, with its diverse culture and thriving economy, presents significant opportunities for international companies, particularly Chinese enterprises expanding overseas. Understanding the country's visa and immigration policies is crucial for a smooth entry and establishment. The Georgian Immigration Law, administered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, governs the legal entry and residence of foreign nationals.

Georgia maintains a liberal visa policy, offering visa-free access to citizens of 98 countries. Notably, the China-Georgia visa exemption agreement, effective May 28, 2024, allows Chinese citizens holding diplomatic, service, or public affairs passports to enter Georgia without a visa for stays up to 30 days. For long-term work or study, obtaining the appropriate visa and subsequent residence permit is mandatory.

Categories of Georgian Visas

Georgian visas are categorized into five primary types, each serving distinct purposes. It is essential to understand that a visa is a pre-entry authorization; final admission is determined by border control officials upon arrival.

Diplomatic Visa (Category A)
Special Visa (Category B)
Ordinary Visa (Category C)
Immigration Visa (Category D)
Transit Visa (Category T)

Visas are further distinguished by validity: short-term (single or multiple entry, up to 90 days in any 180-day period) and long-term (multiple entry, 90-day validity, serving as a prerequisite for a residence permit).

Detailed Visa Subcategories

Diplomatic Visa (A)

A1: For high-level officials on state business.
A2: For employees of diplomatic missions and international organizations.
A3: For diplomatic couriers and individuals on special missions.
A4: For honorary consuls and their families.
A5: For members of state delegations on activities of national interest.

Special Visa (B)

B1: For members of foreign delegations on working visits.
B2: For administrative and technical staff of diplomatic missions.
B3: For individuals under international treaties and peacekeeping forces.
B4: For members of civil society delegations.

Ordinary Visa (C)

C1: For tourists.
C2: For individuals visiting family/friends and freelancers.
C3: For business meetings, conferences, and transport crew.
C4: For humanitarian aid, medical treatment, and pilgrimage.

Immigration Visa (D)

D1: For employees, company representatives, and entrepreneurs.
D2: For scientists, athletes, students, journalists, and volunteers.
D3: For students and researchers.
D4: For family reunification.
D5: For individuals owning property valued over $35,000.

Transit Visa (T)

For foreigners transiting through Georgia to a third country.

Visa Application Process

Applications can be submitted via the E-Visa Portal for short-term stays or the E-Application System for all visa types. The standard processing time is 10 calendar days for short-term visas and 30 days for long-term visas. The application fee is $20 plus a 2% service fee for online applications.

For Chinese citizens on private travel, a tourist or business visa is required. Key documents for a business visa include:

Required Document	Specification
Visa Application Form	Completed accurately and truthfully.
Original Passport	Valid for at least 6 months beyond the trip, with two blank pages.
Photograph	Recent color photo (35mm x 45mm, white background).
Health Certificate	Including HIV test and vaccination records.
Proof of Financial Means	Evidence of sufficient funds for the stay.
Invitation Letter	From a Georgian entity or individual, notarized if from an individual.

Understanding Georgian Residence Permits

A residence permit is essential for long-term stays for work, study, or life in Georgia. SailGlobal, with its expertise in global mobility, can assist companies in navigating this process efficiently.

Types of Residence Permits

Work Permit: Requires proof of monthly income exceeding 5 times the Georgian minimum subsistence level. The employer must meet specific annual turnover thresholds.
Study Permit: For enrollment in accredited educational institutions.
Investment Permit: For investments exceeding $300,000 or ownership of non-agricultural property of equivalent value. This is a popular route for investors, as seen in cases facilitated by firms like SailGlobal.
Permanent & Lifetime Permits: Available for spouses of citizens, long-term residents, and significant investors meeting sustained business revenue criteria.
Other permits include those for family reunification, former citizens, stateless persons, and special humanitarian cases.

Application Process for Key Permits

Work Residence Permit

Applications are submitted electronically. Required documents include a passport copy, D1/D2 visa, employment contract, proof of income, and employer turnover documentation from the tax authority. Processing typically takes 30 days.

Investment Residence Permit

Applicants must provide a passport copy, proof of legal stay, audited investment report or property valuation exceeding $300,000, and letters of recommendation. Family members must submit proof of relationship. Processing also averages 30 days.

Processing Timelines and Best Practices

The standard processing time for work and investment residence permits is 30 days. Expedited services are available at higher fees. Employers must ensure all documentation is accurate and maintain clear communication with authorities to avoid delays. Partnering with a specialized provider like SailGlobal can streamline this complex process, ensuring compliance and efficiency for your international assignments.

Georgia Visa & Residence Permits 2024: A Guide for International HR