Residence Permit in Georgia Through Business
Georgia offers one of the easiest residence permit processes in the world for entrepreneurs. With a registered company, you can obtain a residence permit valid for up to 1 year, renewable indefinitely.
Visa-Free Stay vs Residence Permit
Most nationalities can stay in Georgia visa-free for up to 1 year. So why get a residence permit?
| Feature | Visa-Free | Residence Permit |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 1 year | 1+ years (renewable) |
| Re-entry | Counter resets each entry | Unlimited |
| Banking | May have restrictions | Full access |
| Family | Each person individual | Family reunification possible |
| Path to PR | No | After 6 years |
Types of Business Residence Permits
Work Residence Permit
For employees of Georgian companies (including company directors/owners):
- Valid for 1 year
- Requires employment contract
- Renewable
Investment Residence Permit
For significant investments in Georgia:
- Short-term (1 year): Investment of 300,000 GEL+
- Long-term (5 years): Investment of 300,000 GEL+ with additional criteria
Labor Activity Permit
For self-employed individuals and company owners:
- Valid for 1 year
- Requires registered business
- Most common for entrepreneurs
Requirements for Business Owners
The most common path for entrepreneurs is the Labor Activity permit:
Documents Required
- Valid passport (6+ months validity)
- Passport-size photos
- Company registration certificate
- Proof of address in Georgia (rental agreement)
- Bank statement showing sufficient funds
- Application form
Financial Requirements
No specific minimum, but you should demonstrate:
- Active business (some revenue or business activity)
- Funds to support yourself
- Stable accommodation
Application Process
Step 1: Gather Documents
Collect all required documents. Foreign documents may need apostille and translation.
Step 2: Submit Application
Apply at the Public Service Hall or through the online portal (migration.gov.ge).
Step 3: Pay Fee
- Standard processing (30 days): 300 GEL
- Expedited processing (10 days): 600 GEL
Step 4: Wait for Decision
Processing takes 10-30 days depending on the fee paid.
Step 5: Receive Residence Card
Upon approval, you'll receive a residence card valid for 1 year.
Renewal Process
Residence permits can be renewed indefinitely as long as:
- Your business remains active
- You maintain accommodation in Georgia
- You haven't violated Georgian law
Apply for renewal 1-2 months before expiration.
Path to Permanent Residence
After 6 years of continuous residence in Georgia, you can apply for permanent residence, which offers:
- Indefinite stay in Georgia
- No renewal required
- Almost equal rights to citizens
Family Residence Permits
Once you have a residence permit, family members can apply:
- Spouse: Based on family reunification
- Children under 18: Included with parent's application
- Parents: In certain circumstances
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Inactive Business: Make sure your company shows some activity (bank transactions, contracts).
Expired Documents: Ensure passport and other documents have sufficient validity.
Late Renewal: Apply well before your permit expires.
Incomplete Application: Missing documents delay processing.
Our Immigration Support
Modern Consulting helps with:
- Document preparation and review
- Application submission
- Communication with authorities
- Renewal management
- Family permit applications