To open an account, non-residents generally need a valid foreign passport. Depending on the bank and its current compliance policy, additional documents may be requested — such as proof of a registered address in Georgia, confirmation of income source, or an explanation of the intended account use. Requirements change periodically. Some banks allow accounts to be opened on the same day. The card is usually issued at the branch immediately or dispatched within a few working days.
Georgian cards work in most countries. Some payment platforms and services may not accept cards issued by Georgian banks, so it is worth checking compatibility with specific platforms beforehand. We help clients choose the right bank for their situation, prepare the document package, and coordinate the branch visit.
What the client needs to provide:
- a valid foreign passport;
- in some cases: proof of address in Georgia (for example, a lease agreement);
- in some cases: documents confirming the source of income or nature of activity.
What Legalese handles:
- selecting the most suitable bank for the client's needs;
- verifying current document requirements;
- preparing and translating documents where needed;
- accompanying the client to the bank or coordinating the visit.
Why the bank asks about income and the purpose of the account
The bank asks about income and the purpose of the account to meet the requirements of the law. The Law of Georgia on Facilitating the Prevention of Money Laundering and the Financing of Terrorism requires the bank to identify and verify the client, establish the purpose and intended nature of the business relationship and then monitor it. If the bank cannot apply these measures, the law prohibits it from establishing the business relationship. So a short written explanation of why you need the account and where the money will come from helps the bank complete these checks from the documents.
Is the money in a card account insured?
Yes. The Deposit Insurance Agency insures card accounts among other deposits of individuals, residents and non-residents, in all licensed commercial banks and microbanks in Georgia. The current limit is GEL 50,000 per depositor per bank regardless of currency, and all accounts in one bank are added together. From 1 January 2027 the limit rises to GEL 100,000 (Agency announcement of 28 September 2026). More on insurance and tax on interest is on our personal bank account in Georgia page.
Can I open a Georgian bank account without a Georgian residence permit?
Yes. Georgian citizenship or a residence permit is not required to open an account. A foreign passport is sufficient, though specific requirements vary by bank.
In which currencies can I open an account?
Most major banks offer multi-currency accounts in Georgian lari (GEL), US dollars (USD), and euros (EUR). Each currency typically gets its own card, or a single multi-currency card is issued.
How long does it take to open an account?
With all documents in hand, accounts are often opened on the day of the visit. The card is issued at the branch immediately or delivered within a few working days.
Can I receive payments from foreign companies into a Georgian account?
Yes. Georgian bank accounts support incoming SWIFT transfers. Some payment systems — such as Stripe or PayPal — may have restrictions for Georgia, so check compatibility in advance.
What if the bank refuses to open an account?
Compliance requirements differ across banks. A refusal from one bank does not mean others will refuse as well. We can help identify the reason and approach a more suitable bank with a properly prepared document package.
Is money on a Georgian bank card insured?
Yes, card accounts are part of the deposit insurance system, including for non-residents. The limit is GEL 50,000 per depositor per bank, and GEL 100,000 from 1 January 2027. Accounts in different banks are insured separately.
Is interest on the account balance taxed?
Not in Georgia. Under Article 131 of the Tax Code, interest paid by a licensed financial institution is not taxed at source and is not included in the recipient's gross income. Tax residents of other countries should check the rules of their own country.