Work permit in Georgia: What to do after receiving it and which format to choose

Obtaining a work permit (WP) in Georgia is only the first step. Much depends on the type of work you specified in your application:

• remote,
• based in Georgia,
• hybrid.

This choice determines:

• whether you need a residence permit or a D1 visa,
• whether you can work without entering the country,
• and what restrictions apply to you.

Let’s break down each option.

1. Remote Work Format (Working Outside Georgia)

If you indicated during your application that you are working from abroad, then:

What this offers

• A work permit is sufficient;
• You can work without a residence permit;
• You do not need to enter Georgia.

Important point

• No need to be in Georgia,
• no entry requirements,
• no obligation to obtain additional documents.

This is the simplest option.

2. Working from within Georgia

There are two scenarios here — depending on where you were located when you received your permit.

Scenario A: You are already in Georgia

Mandatory requirement: You must obtain a residence permit.

Rules

• If you already have a residence permit → no changes are needed.
• If you do not have a residence permit → you must apply for one within 10 days.

Scenario B: You are not in Georgia

In this case, you need:

• a D1 visa,
• or a residence permit.

Rules

• You must apply for a D1 visa within 30 days of receiving the permit.
• Once you receive the visa, you can enter the country and work.

Without a D1 visa or a residence permit, working will be illegal.

3. Hybrid format (partially in Georgia)

This option combines both approaches.

Requirements

To work in Georgia, you will need:

• A residence permit,
• or a D1 visa.

What this means

• When entering the country for work, you must have legal status;
• simply having a permit is not enough.

Restriction for all work formats

There is one important rule: if you have chosen a work format related to Georgia (in Georgia or hybrid), you cannot be absent from the country for more than 6 consecutive months.

Otherwise, your work permit will be revoked.

Renewing your permit

You must apply for renewal 30 days before the expiration date.

How to choose the right type

In short:

Conclusion

The key point to understand is: your employment status determines your obligations.

Mistakes at this stage can lead to:

• revocation of your work permit,
• fines,
• problems with legalization.

Need help with the application process?

ESPERO can assist you to:

• obtain a work permit;
• choose the right format (without risks);
• apply for a residence permit;
• obtain a D1 visa;
• guide you through the entire process.

We stay up to date with current practices and help you avoid mistakes.

Contact us — and we’ll make the process easy and predictable.