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As of July 1, 2026, new rules governing the employment of foreign nationals have taken effect in Georgia. In most cases, a foreign national must now obtain a work permit before beginning official employment.
However, the law provides for a number of exceptions. Certain categories of foreign nationals are not required to obtain a work permit.
Let’s take a look at who is exempt from this requirement and in which cases this actually applies.
Why was the work permit introduced in the first place?
The new system was introduced so that the government could monitor the legality of foreign nationals’ employment, maintain labor market statistics, and prevent cases of illegal employment.
At the same time, lawmakers recognize that there are categories of foreign nationals for whom obtaining a work permit would be an unnecessary administrative burden. That is precisely why the law includes a list of exemptions.
It is important to understand that being exempt from obtaining a work permit does not automatically exempt one from the requirements of immigration or tax laws. In some cases, a foreign national will still be required to obtain a residence permit, register with the tax authorities, or comply with other legal requirements.
Foreign nationals with permanent residence status
Foreign nationals who hold permanent residence status in Georgia are not required to obtain a work permit.
In essence, holders of a permanent residence permit have rights that are as close as possible to those of a Georgian citizen and may work freely without obtaining additional permits.
It should be noted that the rules for obtaining a permanent residence permit change periodically. For example, spouses of Georgian citizens can now, as a rule, obtain a permanent residence permit only after five years of residence under the corresponding temporary residence permit.
Refugees and persons under international protection
The following are exempt from obtaining a work permit:
- persons with refugee status;
- persons with humanitarian status;
- persons with subsidiary protection;
- persons with temporary protection;
- asylum seekers.
For these categories, the state grants the right to employment without having to go through an additional procedure to obtain a work permit.
Diplomats and employees of international organizations
A work permit is not required for:
- staff of diplomatic missions;
- consular officers;
- employees of international organizations working in accordance with international agreements.
Their legal status is governed by international law and specific international treaties.
Accredited journalists from foreign media outlets
Foreign journalists who are officially accredited in Georgia are also exempt from the requirement to obtain a work permit.
This applies specifically to journalists who have completed the state accreditation process.
Persons covered by international treaties
If an international treaty to which Georgia is a party provides for a special procedure for the employment of foreign nationals, that specific procedure applies.
In this case, a work permit is not required.
Holders of investment residence permits
Foreign nationals holding an investment residence permit may work without obtaining a separate work permit.
An investment residence permit is granted to individuals who meet the legal requirements regarding the amount of investment in the Georgian economy.
Holders of a special residence permit
This exemption also applies to holders of a special residence permit issued at the written request of a member of the Georgian Government.
This status is much less common and is granted only in exceptional cases.
Short‐term professional activities
The law provides for exemptions for foreign specialists engaged in short‐term professional activities.
However, the specific list of such cases must be determined by the Government of Georgia through a separate resolution.
At the time of writing, the relevant regulatory act is still pending, so the final list of exemptions has not yet been published.
Employment in government agencies and state‐owned enterprises
No permit is required for foreign nationals working:
- in government agencies;
- at state‐owned enterprises;
- in companies with state participation.
Such employers will be able to hire foreign specialists without going through the general permit application process.
Fully remote work for a Georgian employer
This is one of the most interesting new developments.
If an employee works entirely remotely and the performance of their job duties does not require entry into Georgia, a work permit is not required.
For example, a foreign software developer can perform work for a Georgian company while remaining in another country at all times.
However, it is important that the performance of these duties truly does not require physical presence in Georgia.
Working for a foreign company
Another important exception applies to foreigners who work for or provide services to a non‐resident.
If the work is exclusively related to the activities of a foreign company outside of Georgia, a work permit is also not required.
In practice, this provision may prove to be the most relevant for:
- IT specialists;
- consultants;
- designers;
- marketers;
- specialists working for foreign clients.
However, the actual circumstances of the work must be analyzed on a case‐by‐case basis.
Executives of large companies
The exemption applies to:
- executives of Category I—III enterprises;
- members of the audit committees of such enterprises.
Thus, the legislature has made an exception for the senior management of large businesses.
Work on cultural heritage sites
No permit is required for foreign specialists performing work related to the preservation, restoration, or research of cultural heritage sites.
Persons with the right to temporary residence under Article 60 of the law
The exemption also applies to persons who have the right to temporary residence in accordance with Article 60 of the Georgian Law “On the Legal Status of Foreigners and Stateless Persons.”
This is a special category of foreigners defined directly by law.
Additional categories may be added later
The law explicitly provides for the possibility of expanding the list of exemptions.
The Georgian government has the authority to issue a resolution defining additional categories of foreign nationals who will not be required to obtain a work permit.
Therefore, the list of exemptions may change over time.
Important to remember
Even if a foreign national does not need a work permit, this does not mean they are automatically exempt from other legal requirements.
Depending on the situation, the following obligations may still apply:
- obtain the appropriate residence permit;
- register with the tax authorities;
- comply with immigration laws;
- comply with labor laws;
- pay taxes and social security contributions, if required by law.
For this reason, it is advisable to verify your legal status in advance before starting work in Georgia.
FAQ
Do I need to obtain a work permit if I have permanent residency in Georgia?
No. Foreigners with permanent residency are exempt from the requirement to obtain a work permit.
Do holders of an investment residence permit need a work permit?
No. Holders of an investment residence permit may work in Georgia without obtaining a separate work permit.
Do I need a work permit if I work remotely for a Georgian company?
If the work is performed entirely remotely and does not require entry into Georgia, you do not need to obtain a work permit.
Do I need a work permit if I work for a foreign company?
In most cases, no, if the work is exclusively related to the activities of a foreign (non‐resident) company outside of Georgia. However, each situation must be analyzed on a case‐by‐case basis.
Does the absence of a work permit exempt me from obtaining a residence permit?
No. Work permits, residence permits, and tax obligations are governed by different laws. Exemption from obtaining a work permit does not automatically exempt you from other requirements.
Can the list of exemptions change?
Yes. The law provides that the Georgian government has the right to establish additional categories of foreigners who will not require a work permit.
Conclusion
The new rules governing the employment of foreign nationals have significantly changed the way business is conducted in Georgia. Although obtaining a work permit has become mandatory for most employers, the legislature has retained a fairly broad list of exemptions.
The most common exemptions apply to holders of permanent residence permits, investment residence permits, foreign specialists working for foreign companies, and fully remote employees who are not required to travel to Georgia.
However, each situation has its own nuances. Even if it seems at first glance that a work permit is not required, it is important to ensure that you actually qualify for one of the exceptions provided for by law. A mistake could result in the denial of a residence permit, fines, or inquiries from regulatory authorities.
Need help?
Espero’s specialists advise foreign nationals and employers daily on the new employment regulations in Georgia.
We can help you:
- determine whether you need a work permit;
- check whether you qualify for an exemption;
- prepare the necessary documents;
- prepare the application package for a residence permit;
- advise employers on the requirements of the new legislation.
Contact us before you start working — this will help you avoid mistakes, save time, and ensure all documents are prepared in accordance with Georgian law.