If you're a foreigner planning to work in Georgia, big changes took effect on March 1, 2026. The Government of Georgia introduced a brand‑new system for issuing Labor Activity Permits—a mandatory authorization for foreign workers and self‑employed individuals. The law was updated in a short time on April 22.
This blog post breaks down the recent updates and resulted changes.
What has changed regarding Georgian Labor Permit?
The main change with the law was addition of groups that are exempt and will no longer require the permit, such groups in simple terms are:
- Individual Entrepreneurs working remote outside of Georgia and not serving Georgian clients
- Workers for short term projects
- Employees of a Georgian company that work fully remotely without entering the country
- Foreign founders and directors of Georgian companies
This update significantly narrows the target group. All other clauses have stayed valid.
Validity Period
- First permit: 6 months to 1 year
- IT-sector permits: up to 3 years
- Renewals:
- First 5 years → extendable annually
- After 5 years → extendable for 1–5 years
- IT → extendable up to 3 years at a time
Fees (Government Fees)
- Standard (30 days): 200 GEL
- Expedited (10 business days): 400 GEL
- Renewal: 200 GEL
- For employees, the employer pays the fee
- For self‑employed foreigners, you pay the fee
Monitoring and Compliance
Authorities actively check:
- Whether you're working in the position or business activity listed in the permit
- Whether conditions are being followed
- Violations may result in fines or termination of the permit.
Important Transition Deadlines
- Individual Entrepreneurs working from Georgia have to obtain the permit until they start business activities.
- Foreign workers registered in the system with “active” status must obtain the new permit by January 1, 2027
Need Help Getting Your Georgian Work Permit? We’re Here for You
We’ll review your situation and tell you exactly:
- Whether you qualify
- What type of permit fits your case
- What documents you need
- How long it will take
- Your total costs
âś” Full-Service Assistance Includes:
- Preparing all required documents
- Advising employers (if applicable)
- Completing online applications
- Coaching for the video interview
- Monitoring your case until approval
- Guidance for residence permit after approval