Residence Permit in Georgia Through Business

January 2025 Β· 7 min read

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

Need Help with Your Residence Permit?

Let us guide you through the process smoothly.

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