Which Activities Are Licensed
Licensed sectors and the relevant regulator in each case:
- Banking and insurance — National Bank of Georgia
- Non-bank deposit and credit organisations, payment systems, VASPs (crypto assets) — National Bank of Georgia
- Gambling (casinos, lotteries, online gambling) — Gambling Regulatory Service
- Medical activities and pharmaceuticals — Medical Activities Regulatory Agency
- Educational services — National Centre for Educational Quality Enhancement
- Construction of certain facilities — local self-government bodies
- Export and import of specific goods categories (including strategic and dual-use goods) — Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development
Applicant requirements, document packages, and state duty amounts differ by activity type and regulator. Processing times range from two weeks to several months.
How the Process Works
The first step is to establish whether a particular activity requires a licence and which authority issues it. This is not always straightforward: an activity may fall under multiple regulatory acts at once, or licensing requirements may apply only to part of the planned services.
We then prepare the document package: company incorporation documents, information on beneficial owners, financial models where required, and internal procedure and compliance documentation. After submission we liaise with the regulator, respond to information requests, and manage the process through to licence issuance.
How do I know whether my business needs a licence?
Write to us with a brief description of your planned activity. During an initial consultation we will determine whether a licence is required, which authority issues it, and what the basic requirements are.
How much does obtaining a licence cost?
The total cost consists of the state duty (which varies by licence type and regulator) and document preparation fees. We provide exact figures after analysing the specific activity.
Can I operate while my application is being reviewed?
No. Conducting a licensable activity without a permit carries administrative liability and may also serve as grounds for refusing the licence application.
What happens if my application is refused?
A refusal decision can be challenged before a higher authority or in court. We analyse the grounds for refusal, address the deficiencies, and manage the re-application or appeal process.
Do I need a new licence if I change shareholders or the company address?
It depends on the regulator and licence type. Some changes require notifying the regulator, others require obtaining a new permit or having the changes formally approved. We monitor these requirements as part of our ongoing support service.