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Visas, residence permits and Georgian citizenship

Visas, residence permits and Georgian citizenship
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Advantages of moving to Georgia for foreigners

Georgia is a country that fascinates with its unique combination of cultures, stunning nature and friendly climate for life and business. In recent years, it has become a real find for foreigners wishing to relocate to a new place. Let's take a look at what makes this country so attractive.

1. visa-free regime

One of the major pluses is. visa-free regime for citizens of many countries, including Russia, the EU and the USA. This allows you to stay in the country for up to one year without the need to obtain a visa. More information on entry conditions can be found at official website.

2. warm climate

Georgia is famous for its warm climate. Sunny days prevail here for most of the year, creating ideal living and holiday conditions. Summers are pleasantly warm and winters are mild, which is ideal for those who want to avoid the harsh winter cold.

3. low taxes

For entrepreneurs, Georgia offers low tax rates. Income tax is only 15% and for small businesses it is 1% on turnover. This makes the country an ideal place to do business and invest.

4. Affordable property

Property in Georgia remains one of the most available in the region. For example, the cost of a flat in Tbilisi can start from $30,000. This attracts both investors and those looking for a new place to live permanently.

5. Hospitality and culture

Georgia is known for its hospitality. The locals are always happy to make new acquaintances and are ready to help you integrate into society. The rich culture and traditions add a special zest to life in this country.

Moving to Georgia offers foreigners many opportunities for personal and professional growth. This country promises not only comfortable living, but also prospects for successful investments.

Visa-free entry and visas to Georgia: who can come and for how long

Georgia attracts more and more tourists and potential residents due to its openness and simple entry rules. Let us consider what opportunities the country offers for visa-free stay and what visas may be required.

Visa-free regime

Citizens of many countries, including Russia, the European Union and the United Statescan enjoy a visa-free stay in Georgia until one year. This makes the country easily accessible to tourists and those considering a long-term stay.

Key benefits:

  • Long stay: The opportunity to stay in the country for a whole year without a break.
  • Less bureaucracy: Not having to obtain a visa simplifies the process of planning a trip.
  • Flexibility: Ability to enter and leave the country an unlimited number of times during the year.

More detailed information can be found at official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia.


Visa regime

For citizens of countries that are not on the visa-free list, a visa will be required. Depending on the purpose and duration of stay, there are different types of visas:

  • Short-term visaFor leisure and business travellers; the cost is approx. $50.
  • Long-term visa: Suitable for study or work; cost from $100.
Visas, residence permits and Georgian citizenship

Important points:

  • Papers: To obtain a visa, you will need to provide your passport, photographs and proof of the purpose of your visit.
  • Submission process: Visa applications can be submitted online through consular portals or in person at Georgian consulates.

Documents at the border

The following documents are required when entering Georgia:

  • Passport: The validity period must be at least 6 months from the date of entry.
  • Proof of residence: For example, a hotel reservation or an invitation from friends/relatives.
  • Financial resources: Possible requirement to show sufficient funds for the stay.

Georgia offers flexible conditions for foreigners to visit and live in. Regardless of the purpose of the visit, the country offers convenient and affordable entry options, making it a popular destination for travelling and living.

How to obtain a residence permit (residence permit) in Georgia: the main methods

Moving to Georgia is becoming more and more attractive for foreigners due to the various possibilities of obtaining a residence permit (residence permit). Let us consider the main ways that allow you to legally reside and work in this hospitable country.

Why do I need a residence permit in Georgia?

Even with the current visa-free regime, a residence permit offers many advantages:

  • Legal employment: Opportunity to work officially and receive social guarantees.
  • Long-term accommodation without travelling: More convenient conditions for those who are planning a long-term stay.
  • Access to public services: Easy access to medical and educational services.

Georgia offers several ways to obtain a residence permit, each of which is suitable for different purposes and categories of applicants.

Residence permit for the purchase of real estate (investment residence permit)

One of the popular ways is to buy a property. Purchasing a property with a value of $150,000 entitles you to a residence permit.

  • Requirements: The property must be a residential or commercial property, excluding agricultural land.
  • Advantages: residence permit applies to the whole family, renewable indefinitely.
  • Perspective on citizenship: After 10 years of residence, you can apply for citizenship.

Details of the programme can be found at official website.

Worker and business residence permit (employment or business registration)

For those planning to work or do business in Georgia:

  • Labour residence permit: Requires an employer to have a minimum turnover in the 50,000 GEL for every foreigner.
  • Residence permit for entrepreneurs: Registration of a sole proprietorship takes 1-2 days, after which you can apply for a residence permit.

These options are ideal for re-locators and entrepreneurs.


Study residence permit (for students)

Students enrolled in accredited Georgian universities can receive a residence permit for the period of study.

Papers: Confirmation of enrolment and availability of funds for accommodation.


Residence permit for family reunification

For those who have close relatives with Georgian citizenship or residence permit.

Who can claim: Spouses, children, parents of the applicant.


Other grounds

There are also less common bases:

  • Large investments in business: Attachment from $300,000 may qualify for permanent status.
  • Exceptional cases: Humanitarian residence permits or for stateless persons.

For detailed information and submission of documents, it is recommended to contact House of Justice.

Obtaining a residence permit in Georgia opens many doors for those who want to establish a life in this amazing country. We hope this information has helped you understand the main ways of legalisation.

Procedure of residence permit registration in Georgia: documents, terms and costs

Obtaining a residence permit in Georgia is a structured process that requires compliance with a number of requirements and submission of certain documents. Let's familiarise ourselves with the stages of application, required documents, processing time and cost.

Document preparation

The first step is collection of all necessary documents. This is an important step that requires attention to detail, as mistakes can delay the process.

Tip: Make sure all documents are translated into Georgian and notarised.


Submitting an application

You can apply in person at the House of Justice or online through the official portal. Online submission saves time and avoids queues.

Lifehack: Check all data before sending to avoid errors.


Payment of duty

Depending on the chosen review period, a state fee must be paid. Payment is made via bank or online payment.

It's important: Keep your receipt of payment, you may need it when you apply.


Documents required

You will need the following documents to apply for a residence permit:

  • Passport: The validity period must be at least 6 months from the date of filing.
  • Completed questionnaire: It can be downloaded from official website.
  • Photos: Standard photos for documents.
  • Supporting documents: Depending on the basis for the residence permit (e.g. property purchase agreement, marriage certificate, etc.).
Opening a bank account in Georgia: step-by-step instructions

Timeframe for review

The processing time of applications for residence permit in Georgia varies:

Standardised review: Usually takes about 30 days.

Expedited review: You can select the expedited review option for an additional fee.

Tip: Plan your application at least 40 days before the expiry of the legal period of stay.


Cost of registration

The state application fee varies depending on the urgency of the application:

  • Standard review (30 days): About. GEL 210. (approximately $70).
  • Expedited review: Can reach 300 GEL and above (around $100).
  • Hint: Up-to-date amounts and cost changes can be checked at official portal of the Migration Service.

These steps and tips will guide you through the process of applying for a residence permit in Georgia with minimal hassle and maximum efficiency.


Lifehacks and tips

  • Translation and certification: All documents must be translated into Georgian and notarised.
  • Plan ahead to serve: It is recommended that you apply at least 40 days before the expiry of the legal period of stay.
  • Use official sources: Always check the official websites of Georgia to make sure the information is up to date.

Registration of residence permit in Georgia is an affordable process for those who carefully prepare and comply with all requirements. We hope that this information will help you successfully obtain a residence permit and enjoy all the benefits of living in this wonderful country.

Permanent Residence Permit (PRP) in Georgia: How to Obtain Permanent Resident Status

Permanent resident status in Georgia provides significant advantages for long-term residence and integration into society. Let us consider how one can obtain a permanent residence permit and what conditions must be fulfilled.

Advantages of CoML

Permanent residence permit (PRP) offers the following advantages:

  • Indefinite stay: Possibility to reside in Georgia without the need to extend the status.
  • Official work: The right to be employed without additional authorisation.
  • Access to public services: Simplified access to health, education and social services.

Conditions for obtaining a residence permit

There are several ways to obtain permanent residence in Georgia:

Residence on temporary residence permit

  • Length of stay: Usually required Ages 5-6 continuous residence under a temporary residence permit.
  • Timing: It is important to note that studies and short-term visits do not count towards this deadline.

The investment route

  • Large investments: Investments in the Georgian economy or real estate for an amount of from 300,000 GEL (approximately $100,000) can grant the right to permanent residence without regard to the length of residence.
  • Advantages: Fast track status for large investors.
Visas, residence permits and Georgian citizenship

Clearance procedure

  1. Document preparation: Passport, proof of residence or investment, photographs.
  2. Submitting an application: via House of Justice or online at official website.
  3. Payment of duty: The cost of applying for a residence permit may vary, please check official resources for the latest information.

Important points

  • ID card renewal: Although the CoML is indefinite, the ID card needs to be renewed every 5 years.
  • Transition to citizenship: Permanent residence permits make it much easier to obtain citizenship in the future.

Obtaining permanent residence in Georgia is a logical step for those who have already lived in the country for several years or have made significant investments. This status opens many doors and simplifies life in Georgia, providing certainty and stability. We hope that this information will be useful for your successful relocation and integration into Georgian society.

Obtaining Georgian citizenship: conditions, stages, prospects

Citizenship of Georgia offers its holders many opportunities, including visa-free travel and full participation in the life of the state. Let us consider the main conditions and stages of obtaining citizenship, as well as the prospects it offers.

Advantages of citizenship

Holders of Georgian citizenship receive a number of important advantages:

  • Visa-free travel: Ability to visit more than 100 countries, including European Union countries, without visas.
  • Full civil rights: Participation in elections and ability to hold public office.
  • Social guarantees: Access to all social programmes and health care.

Submission procedure

  1. Collection of documents: Passport, birth certificate, proof of residence, certificates of employment or business/property ownership.
  2. Submitting an application: The application can be submitted through House of Justice or online.
  3. Examinations: Language and history exams are required.
Residence permit in Georgia through purchase of real estate: conditions, documents, pitfalls

The main ways of obtaining citizenship

Georgia offers several paths to citizenship:

Naturalisation

  • Length of stay: 10 years of continuous residence in Georgia.
  • Knowledge of language and history: Georgian language, history and law examinations are required.
  • Simplified terms: It is possible for spouses of Georgian citizens to obtain citizenship through 5 years (or even through 2 years under a special procedure).

Exceptional cases

  • Citizenship by merit: May be granted by presidential decision for exceptional service to the country or significant investment.
  • Origins: If one of the parents is a citizen of Georgia or the child was born in Georgia to stateless persons.

Dual citizenship

Georgia admits dual citizenship in a number of cases, which allows you to retain your former citizenship. This is an important advantage that should be taken into account when applying.

Obtaining Georgian citizenship is an important step for those who plan long-term residence and integration into society. It provides a wide range of opportunities and guarantees, making life in the country comfortable and stable. We hope that this information will help you to successfully complete all stages of this process.

Status comparison: living without residence permit vs with residence permit vs citizenship

When planning to live in Georgia, it is important to understand the differences between the statuses: residence without a residence permit, residence with a residence permit (HPV) and citizenship. Each of these statuses provides different rights and obligations.

Living without a residence permit

Length of stay: Citizens of many countries can stay in Georgia without a visa up to 365 days. However, after this period, they need to leave the country and return to start a new one-year period of stay.

Rights and restrictions: Without a residence permit, foreigners have limited opportunities for formal employment and access to public services.


Accommodation with a residence permit

Length of stay: A residence permit allows you to stay in the country indefinitely, subject to regular renewal.

Rights and restrictions: The residence permit provides the right to formal employment and access to medical and educational services.


Obtaining citizenship

Length of stay: Citizenship provides an opportunity to live in Georgia without time restrictions.

Rights and restrictions: Full civil rights, including participation in elections and access to a full range of social guarantees.

Important points

  • Right to work: Although Russian citizens can work without a residence permit, official employment and social guarantees are available only with a residence permit.
  • Access to services: Residence permits and citizenship facilitate access to health and banking services.
  • Changes in the visa regime: Visa regimes can change, so having a residence permit or citizenship provides more certainty for the future.

Understanding the differences between these statuses will help you choose the most suitable option for you to live in Georgia, taking into account your goals and future plans. We hope you find this information useful in making your choice.

Useful tips when moving to and applying for status in Georgia

Moving to Georgia is an exciting adventure that requires careful preparation. To make the process of adaptation and status formalisation easier, we offer a number of useful tips.

Document preparation

Start collecting documents early: Translating and notarising important papers may take longer than you anticipate.

Check that the requirements are up to date: Before submitting your application, it is important to make sure that you are using the latest versions of documents and forms. Check the information on official websites.


Financial matters

Plan a budget for your move: Take into account the costs of transporting your belongings, setting up your home and paperwork.

Check the cost of registration: Depending on the type of residence permit or citizenship, fees may vary. For example, a standard residence permit application costs approx. GEL 210. (approximately $70).

Gonio: overview of neighbourhoods, infrastructure and house prices

Housing and property

Property valuation: If you are planning to purchase a property to obtain a residence permit, obtain an official valuation of the property beforehand. The value of the property must exceed $100,000.

Consultation with a lawyer: Before buying a property, it is advisable to consult a lawyer to avoid possible legal complications.


Language training

Learn basic Georgian: Even knowing basic phrases will help you with integration and will be useful for the citizenship test.


Submission of the application and deadlines

Plan your pitch in advance: It is recommended that you apply at least 40 days before the expiry of the legal period of stay in Georgia.

Consider possible delays: Be prepared that the clearance process may take longer than expected, especially during the holiday season.

These tips will help you efficiently organise the process of moving to Georgia and registration of all necessary statuses. We hope that our information will be useful for you and will help you to avoid possible difficulties in this exciting journey.


🔗 Useful links

  1. House of Justice
    The website provides information about the state services available at the Georgia House of Justice and allows you to file documents online.
  2. Website of the electronic consular service of Georgia
    Here you can apply for visas, book consular appointments and find information about entering Georgia.

Conclusion

Moving to Georgia opens up many opportunities for a comfortable life and a successful business. Whether it's enjoying the warm climate, favourable tax conditions or affordable housing, there is something for everyone. If you are thinking about buying property in Georgia, we are ready to help you make the process as easy and enjoyable as possible.

Leave a request and our specialists will find the best property options for you according to your needs and budget. We will provide full support at all stages of the transaction, so that your new home will be the beginning of a wonderful life in Georgia.

Frequent questions

Citizens of Russia, the European Union, the USA and many other countries can stay in Georgia without a visa for up to one year.

A residence permit allows you to work legally, reside for a long time without leaving the country and access public services.

A property valued at $150,000 or more must be purchased.

Yes, for this the employer must have a minimum turnover of GEL 50,000 for each foreign employee.

Standard review takes about 30 days, but there is an option for expedited review for an additional fee.

Yes, Georgian language, history and law exams are required.

Citizenship confers full civil rights, including the right to vote and hold public office.

Yes, Georgia allows dual citizenship in some cases, which allows you to keep your previous passport.

The cost is around GEL 210, which is approximately equal to $70 USD.

The application can be submitted in person through the House of Justice or online through the official portal of Georgia.

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