Starting March 1, 2026, Georgia will roll out its first official work permit system for most foreign nationals who are employed or self-employed in the country.
This marks the end of Georgia’s long-standing open labor policy, which allowed foreigners to work legally with just a visa, residence permit, or even visa-free entry.
Who Will Be Affected
The new requirement applies to both foreign employees and self-employed individuals, including freelancers and independent consultants. Employers will be responsible for obtaining work permits for their foreign hires.
Certain groups will be exempt, such as permanent residents, refugees, asylum seekers, and holders of valid investment residence permits. Additional exemptions are expected once the government releases detailed regulations.
Foreigners already working in Georgia before the policy takes effect will have until January 1, 2027, to secure a permit.
What Changes for Employers
Employers must handle the application process for their foreign staff, introducing a new compliance step in recruitment. The standard processing time for a permit is expected to be up to 30 calendar days, though the exact ease of approval remains unclear.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Both foreign nationals and employers found working without a permit will face fines. Repeat violations could lead to steeper penalties, making prompt compliance essential for businesses.
Companies that rely on international talent should prepare for:
This may push employers to rethink hiring strategies, particularly for specialized positions.
Why the Change?
Authorities say the system aims to strengthen oversight of the labor market and reduce cases of foreigners working illegally on tourist visas.
The government’s stated goals include:
While the broad framework has been announced, more detailed rules covering eligibility, application procedures, and further exemptions will be released in the coming months.
Copyright © 2025 Gistlover Media. All Rights Reserved