Before You Leave
Check the visa rules: citizens of Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, and most EU countries can stay in Georgia without a visa for up to 365 days per year. Some nationalities do require a visa. Verify the current conditions on the Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website, as they can change.
Research the rental market in advance. The main platforms are myhome.ge and ss.ge. It is possible to rent remotely, though most landlords prefer an in-person viewing. If you plan to run a business or work as self-employed, resolve your legal structure in advance: registering a company or as an individual entrepreneur has tax implications from day one.
Check with your home country's tax authorities whether you need to notify them of your move or change of tax residency.
Your First Week in Tbilisi
Open an account at a Georgian bank. The two largest banks are Bank of Georgia and TBC Bank. Non-residents can often open an account with just a passport, though requirements change regularly. Some banks ask for additional documents: proof of address or income source.
Get a Georgian SIM card. Operators Magti, Geocell, and Beeline sell starter packs at their stores and through partners, no registration required, just a passport.
Legal Status and Registration
If you plan to stay beyond the visa-free period, a residence permit is required. The main grounds are: property ownership, company registration, employment with a Georgian company, and family ties. If you are running a business, you must register with the Georgian Revenue Service.
Healthcare and Cost of Living
Private clinics in Tbilisi provide good services and operate on a fee basis for all patients, including foreigners. Emergency medical care is free. Getting international health insurance before you arrive is strongly recommended.
The cost of living in Tbilisi rose after 2022 but remains noticeably below most European cities. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in central areas varies significantly by district and apartment condition. Check current prices at myhome.ge.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in Georgia without a visa?
Citizens of Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, and most EU countries may stay in Georgia without a visa for up to 365 days per calendar year. Citizens of some other countries require a visa. Check the current list on the Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
Can I open a bank account right after I arrive?
Yes, most major banks serve non-residents. The document requirements depend on the bank and your nationality. In some cases a passport is sufficient; in others, proof of income or address is requested.
Do I need to register my address?
Foreigners are not required to register an address, but an address will be needed when applying for a residence permit or registering a business.
Are foreign driver's licenses valid?
Driver's licenses from most countries are valid in Georgia for the first six months of your stay. After that, you need to obtain a Georgian license, and in some cases this can be done without an exam under a mutual recognition agreement.
How do I find a Russian-speaking doctor or lawyer?
Tbilisi has a large Russian-speaking community. Specialists can be found through Telegram groups, expat chat recommendations, and clinic directories. Legalese Georgia consults in Russian on legal status and business registration matters.