🚀 How to Get a Work Permit in Georgia (2026 Update): Complete Guide + Free Eligibility Check

If you're a foreigner planning to work or run your own business 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.

This blog post breaks down the new rules in simple language and offers you a Free Eligibility Check plus professional assistance to secure your permit fast and stress‑free.

🇬🇪 What Is the Georgian Labor Activity Permit?

From 2026 onward, any foreigner without permanent residence must obtain a Labor Activity Permit before working with a local employer or performing self‑employment/business activities in Georgia.
The permit confirms that the foreigner meets the criteria set by Georgian law and is allowed to work locally or remotely.

👤 Who Needs This Permit?

✔ Required for:

• Foreign workers employed by Georgian companies
• Freelancers and contractors earning income in Georgia
• Business owners, traders, service providers
• Anyone engaged in economic activity for financial gain

❌ Not required for:

Some groups are exempt—for example:

• Refugees and asylum seekers
• Diplomats & accredited journalists
• Holders of investment residence permits
• People covered by special international treaties

How to Apply for a Work Permit in Georgia (2026 Process) 

For Employees: Application via Employer

1. Employer posts the vacancy on Worknet (www.worknet.moh.gov.ge) for at least 10 business days.
2. If no suitable Georgian candidate is found, the employer applies via www.labourmigration.moh.gov.ge.
3. Decision timeframe:
   1. 30 days standard
   2. 10 business days expedited
4. The permit is issued for a specific employer and role only.

For Self‑Employed Foreigners / Entrepreneurs

• Apply personally via www.labourmigration.moh.gov.ge
• Participate in a mandatory video interview
• Submit required documents (financial proof, activity description, etc.)
• Receive a decision within 30 days (10 days expedited)

💡 Premium Exceptions

Some cases skip the standard labor‑market test, including:

• International companies
• Innovative startups
• Accredited higher‑education experts
• High‑salary positions (>15,000 GEL/month) requiring relevant university degrees

Validity Period

• First permit: 6 months to 1 year
• IT-sector permits: up to 3 years
• Renewals:
  1. First 5 years → extendable annually
  2. After 5 years → extendable for 1–5 years
  3. 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

• Existing self‑employed foreigners must comply by May 1, 2026
• 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

✔ 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