Ask a question!
On March 1, 2026, important changes will come into force in Georgia for all foreign citizens doing business or working in the country. Now any paid activity — be it freelancing, employment or self‐employment — will require a work permit and a corresponding residence permit or D1 visa.
What is changing?
1. Permit for labor activity
- Obligatory for all foreign entrepreneurs and employees.
- Must be submitted to the Ministry of Labor of Georgia, processing time — up to 30 days.
2. D1 visa or labor residence permit
- After obtaining the permit, it is necessary to apply for a D1 visa (if you are outside Georgia) or a residence permit (if you are in the country).
- You must apply for a residence permit within 10 days after receiving the permit.
3. Fines and control
- For working without a permit — a fine of 2,000 GEL.
- Repeated violations — higher fines.
- Inspections will be carried out by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and tax authorities.
4. Limited list of professions
A list of authorized spheres of activity for foreigners (including IEs) is expected.
Who will be affected by the changes?
1. IEs already operating in Georgia
If you are already registered as a sole proprietor and are operating, you must:
- Apply for a work permit until March 1, 2026.
- Then you must obtain a residence permit.
2. Self‐employed persons living outside Georgia
If you have registered a sole proprietorship but are physically located abroad:
- You also need to obtain a permit.
- Before entering the country — get a D1 visa.
3. Foreigners — owners and directors of companies
- The permit is issued on behalf of the company.
- Then — registration of a labor residence permit for yourself and key employees.
- The company must show real activity and income from 50,000 GEL/year per foreign employee.
4. those who only plan to start a business
For IE:
- Choose the sphere allowed for foreign self‐employed.
- Register as an IE.
- Obtain authorization and apply for a residence permit.
For company owners:
- Register a company.
- Obtain a work permit for yourself and the foreigners you hire.
- After that, apply for a residence permit.
Algorithm of action
| Category | What needs to be done by March 2026 | What to do after March 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| IE in Georgia | Obtain a permit + apply for a residence permit | Conduct activities only if authorized |
| IE outside Georgia | Permit + D1 visa prior to arrival | Without authorization — fine and prohibition of activity |
| Business owners | Permit through a legal entity + residence permit for yourself and employees | Failure to comply = fines and possible deportation |
| New IEs | Register an IE → permit → residence permit | Otherwise, you can’t work |
| New company owners | Company registration → authorization → residence permit | Otherwise, the activity is outlawed |
How to prepare?
- Prepare your work permit documents in advance.
- Make sure the business meets the turnover and income requirements.
- Apply before February 2026 to avoid risks.
- Seek support from lawyers or migration advisors if necessary.
Conclusion
Starting from March 1, 2026, doing business by foreigners in Georgia becomes more formalized. The law is aimed at streamlining labor migration and requires more preparation and responsibility from sole proprietors and company owners. With the right approach, you can maintain legal status, avoid fines and continue to work in one of the most open countries in the region.
If you need advice on obtaining a permit, applying for a residence permit or registering a sole proprietorship, we are happy to help. Write to us and we will find a customized solution.