1. Types of residence permits
Georgian law provides for several types of residence permits, each with its own conditions and documents:
- Work residence permit: for foreigners employed in Georgia;
- Study residence permit: for students at Georgian educational institutions;
- Family reunification permit: for family members of Georgian citizens or residents;
- Investment residence permit: for those investing in Georgia;
- Residence permit based on property ownership: for owners of real estate in Georgia, subject to the conditions set by law;
- Permanent residence permit.
Which permit suits you depends on the purpose of your stay. The requirements change from time to time, so each case should be checked against the current rules before you apply.
2. Documents you will usually need
- A valid passport;
- A document confirming the basis of your stay, such as an employment contract, a letter from your university, a marriage certificate, a Public Registry extract for your property or company documents;
- Proof of address in Georgia;
- Photographs and other documents depending on the permit type.
Foreign documents usually need to be translated into Georgian and legalised or apostilled in accordance with the law.
3. Where and how to apply
Applications are usually submitted at a Public Service Hall. We can help you prepare the documents, file the application and follow the process until a decision is made.
4. If your application is refused
A refusal is not always the end of the road. Often the problem lies in the documents, and a new, properly prepared application is enough. Where needed, the decision can be challenged as provided by law. We will assess the reasons for the refusal and advise on the best next step.
5. Georgian citizenship
After a period of lawful residence, some foreigners may be eligible for Georgian citizenship by naturalisation. Georgian law allows dual citizenship in certain cases. We can advise on eligibility and help prepare the application.
6. Related services
A residence permit often goes hand in hand with company registration, property purchase or employment. We advise on all of these, in English and Georgian, so you get complete support in one place. See also: Buying Property in Georgia as a Foreigner, company registration and contracts, construction and real estate and our immigration services.
Frequently asked questions
Which residence permit can I get?
It depends on the purpose of your stay: work, study, family, investment or property ownership. We will help you choose the right route during a consultation.
Where do I submit the application?
Applications are usually submitted at a Public Service Hall. We can help you prepare and submit the documents.
How long does the review take?
Review times are set by law and depend on the type of permit. We will give you an estimate after reviewing your case.
Can I get a residence permit by buying property in Georgia?
Georgian law provides for this possibility, subject to certain conditions. We will check whether your property meets the requirements.
My application was refused. What should I do?
We will analyse the reasons for the refusal and advise whether a new application or an appeal is the better option.
Can I hold dual citizenship?
Georgian law allows dual citizenship in certain cases. We will assess your options based on your circumstances.
Contact us
Need help with a residence permit in Georgia? Call +995 577 404 750 (WhatsApp), email info@lcglegal.ge or request a consultation. Meetings by appointment — 25 Al. Kazbegi Ave., Tbilisi. Consultations are also available online by video call.
This article provides general information and is not legal advice. Laws and practice may change; please contact us for advice on your specific situation.