Ask a question!
Following changes to Georgia’s labor migration laws, the process of obtaining work authorization for foreigners has become significantly more formalized. In many cases, two elements are required to work legally:
- a work permit (WP);
- a D1 work visa or a residence permit.
This is particularly relevant for:
- employees of Georgian companies;
- foreigners working under contract;
- certain sole proprietors and freelancers;
- specialists applying for a work residence permit.
One of the key steps is submitting an application for a D1 visa through the electronic portal of the Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
What is a D1 Visa in Georgia
The D1 visa is Georgia’s national long‐term work visa, intended for foreigners who plan to work legally within the country.
It is typically issued:
- before entering Georgia;
- or after obtaining a work permit;
- as a basis for subsequently obtaining a residence permit.
It is important to understand that in most cases, it is not possible to apply for a D1 visa within Georgia. The application must be submitted through a Georgian consulate outside the country.
How to apply for a D1 visa online
Online applications are submitted through the official consular services portal of the Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs: geoconsul.gov.ge.
The application process consists of several steps.
1. Selecting a country and consulate
In the first step, the applicant selects:
- the country of application;
- a specific consulate or diplomatic mission of Georgia.
As a rule:
- citizens submit documents in their own country;
- foreigners residing in another country may submit documents provided they have legal residency status.
In some countries, consulates require proof of legal residency:
- a visa;
- a residence permit;
- long‐term registration.
2. Providing personal information
The application form includes:
- Full name;
- Citizenship;
- Passport details;
- Date of birth;
- Contact information.
You will also need to upload a photo in the specified format.
3. Residential address
Please provide:
- current residential address;
- country of residence;
- contact phone number.
The information must match the documents confirming your legal residence in the country of application.
4. Employment information
The employment section should include:
- employer;
- job title;
- intended activities in Georgia;
- salary.
For sole proprietors and self‐employed individuals, the description of activities must be as accurate as possible and correspond to the work permit.
5. “Planned Visit” Section
Additional fields appear for the D1 work visa.
Typically, you must specify:
- purpose of visit — employment/work;
- position;
- level of education;
- expected income;
- work permit number.
The work permit number is currently one of the key elements of the application.
6. Additional questions
The application form includes standard questions regarding:
- previous travel;
- immigration history;
- any previous visa denials;
- holding of dual citizenship; and other topics.
7. Uploading documents
The system allows you to upload documents electronically.
The following are usually required:
- passport;
- photograph;
- work permit;
- employment contract;
- proof of residence;
- additional documents as requested by the consulate.
8. Submitting the application and paying the fee
After reviewing the application, the applicant confirms submission and pays the consular fee.
At the time of writing, the base processing fee is approximately $20; however, the fee amount may vary depending on the country of application and the consulate.
Is it possible to obtain a D1 visa outside one’s country of citizenship?
Yes, in many cases this is possible.
However, there is an important caveat: the consulate usually requires proof of legal residence in the country where the application is filed.
For example:
- a residence permit;
- a long‐term visa;
- or another immigration status.
Practices may vary depending on the specific Georgian consulate.
That is why, before traveling to a third country (such as Armenia, Turkey, Cyprus, or Spain), it is advisable to check in advance:
- whether the consulate accepts non‐residents;
- whether a local residence permit is required;
- whether an appointment is required;
- what additional documents are needed.
Important details for 2026
The work permit application becomes a mandatory part of the system
Following labor migration reforms, the work permit has effectively become the foundational document for:
- legal employment;
- obtaining a residence permit;
- obtaining a D1 visa.
Without a properly completed work permit application, obtaining a visa may be difficult.
Errors in the application form can lead to delays
The most common issues:
- discrepancies with the work permit application;
- errors in the job title;
- incorrect description of activities;
- lack of proof of legal residence in the country of application.
Consulates operate differently
Practices vary even between neighboring countries. In some places, tourist status is sufficient, while in others a full‐fledged residence permit is required.
Who should pay particular attention to the D1 visa
This issue is particularly relevant for:
- citizens of countries with visa‐free travel agreements;
- sole proprietors and freelancers working from Georgia;
- employees of foreign and Georgian companies;
- those planning to obtain a work‐based residence permit;
- foreigners staying in Georgia for an extended period.
Frequently asked questions
Is it possible to obtain a D1 visa while in Georgia?
Generally, no. Applications are typically processed through a Georgian consulate outside the country.
Is a work permit required for a D1 visa?
In most cases, yes. The work permit number must be included on the application form.
Can I submit my application in another country?
Yes, but the consulate may require proof of legal residence or a local residence permit.
Is tourist status sufficient for the application?
It depends on the specific consulate. Practices vary.
How long does it take to process the application?
Processing times may vary depending on the consulate and its workload. Typically, processing takes anywhere from a few business days to several weeks.
Is it possible to obtain a residence permit without a D1 visa?
In some cases, yes; however, much depends on the basis for your stay and immigration practices at the time of application.
What happens if you work without a work permit?
The law provides for fines and immigration risks for both the employer and the foreign employee.
Need help with applying for a D1 visa or a work permit?
ESPERO assists with the following:
- work permits;
- D1 work visas;
- residence permits in Georgia;
- registration of sole proprietorships and companies;
- immigration and tax matters.
We can help you:
- determine whether you need a work permit;
- prepare your documents;
- minimize the risk of rejection;
- develop the best application strategy.
Contact us for a consultation and to assess your situation.