Rules for doing business in Georgia: how to avoid fines in 2026

Starting your own business in Georgia is an inspiring process, but local legislation requires attention to detail when it comes to the design of your premises. Whether it’s a cozy café in Tbilisi or a small manufacturing facility in Batumi, the “visual” aspect of your business must comply with the law.

To avoid any unpleasant surprises during an inspection, check your premises against our list.

1. “Consumer Corner” 2.0: What should be displayed on the wall?

Georgia has a strict rule: customers and regulatory authorities must be able to see immediately that you are operating legally.

• Official documents: An extract from the register (obtained from the House of Justice) and documents from the Ministry of Finance must be displayed in a prominent place.
• Consequences: If the documents are not visible, the tax or city inspectorate may issue a fine, temporarily restrict operations, or even close the facility until the violations are remedied.

2. Language issue: signs and advertising

Georgia is welcoming to foreign languages, but state regulations take precedence.

• The main rule: Signs in Georgian are mandatory.
• Foreign languages: You can use English, Russian, or any other language, but only as a supplement.
• Visual balance: Georgian text must not be smaller than foreign text. This applies to outdoor signs, “garage” advertising (stands), and banners in shop windows.

3. Menus and price lists

If you have a restaurant business or service salon, pay attention to printed materials:

• The menu in Georgian is the basis.
• Options in other languages can follow or be in a second column, but the original in the official language must always be available.

4. Be fully prepared for an inspection

City service inspectors or Ministry of Finance employees may arrive for an inspection at any time during business hours.

Important to remember: The administration or responsible person is required to provide all requested documents immediately. Excuses such as “the director has left with the keys to the safe” may be considered obstruction of the inspection.

What to do if a document is lost?

Don't panic. There are two ways to restore legal status in the interior:

• Offline: Request a certified copy at any branch of the House of Justice.
• Online: Log in to your personal account on the rs.ge portal and reprint the current forms.

Summary: Spend 15 minutes reviewing your office or store today so that tomorrow you can calmly focus on developing your business.

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