Mandatory medical insurance for entry into Georgia from 2026: what is known at this point

Georgia is preparing to introduce new entry rules: from January 1, 2026, tourists will be required to have medical insurance that meets the requirements of Georgian law. The change will affect both individual travelers and tourists arriving through travel agencies. The information has been confirmed by the Georgian Ministry of Tourism, which has published the first official explanations. However, a number of details remain undisclosed — additional instructions from the government are expected.

What the law and official explanations say

According to Georgia's Law on Tourism, foreign citizens are required to have:

1. medical insurance;
2. accident insurance.

These requirements will come into effect on January 1, 2026, when the relevant government decree comes into force.

The policy must be:

• in electronic or paper form;
• in Georgian or English;
• valid from the moment of entry and for the entire period of stay in Georgia.

What coverage amounts are required?

Minimum limit requirements vary depending on the type of medical services:

Important: the policy can be issued by any insurance company, Georgian or foreign, as long as it meets the requirements for amounts and content.

The policy must specify:

• the details of the insured persons;
• the territory of insurance;
• insurance risks;
• the period of validity;
• insurance amounts and limits;
• information about the deposit and payment terms (if applicable).

Fines and liability for tourists

From 2026, fines will be introduced in Georgia for not having insurance:

• 300 GEL for being in the country without a policy;
• 500—1,000 GEL for participating in sports or high-risk activities without special insurance (trekking, downhill skiing, mountaineering, etc.);
• 1,000—2,000 GEL for repeat offenses.

If payment is delayed, the fine:

• doubles;
• then triples.

Systematic violations may result in restricted entry or deportation.

What is especially important for tourists engaged in activities

For mountain tourism, skiing, rafting, paragliding, and other extreme sports, you will need an extended policy that covers the risks of these specific activities. Regular travel insurance may not be sufficient.

What remains unclear at this point

Despite initial clarifications, there are still questions that the tourism department has not yet answered:

• How will the presence of a policy be checked at the border?
• What specific wording in the insurance contract will be mandatory;
• Will there be requirements for insurance companies in other countries;
• Will a state list of recommended policies be created.

ESPERO is in constant contact with the relevant authorities and will update the information immediately after the government decree is published.

What travelers should do now

1. Follow the official explanations.
2. Before traveling, take out a policy that meets the minimum requirements.
3. Make sure that the insurance company provides a policy in English or Georgian.
4. For active recreation, choose extended coverage.

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