Foreign Employment and Entrepreneurship in Georgia: New Rules from March 2026

On June 26, 2025, the Georgian government adopted a legislative package introducing sweeping reforms to labor migration and self-employment rules. These changes will come into effect on March 1, 2026.

The reform marks a turning point for foreign nationals working or doing business in Georgia. The old system of migrant registration is being replaced by mandatory work permits—a shift that affects not only employees but also self-employed foreigners, individual entrepreneurs, and even remote workers under Georgian contracts.

“Georgia’s new rules recognize modern realities of work, but they also demand stricter compliance from both businesses and individuals.”

From Registration to Work Authorization

The centerpiece of the reform is the replacement of the labor migrant registration system with formal work permits. For the first time, the Labor Migration Law extends to individual entrepreneurs, meaning that self-employed foreigners who generate taxable income in Georgia are explicitly regulated.

The scope of “labor migrants” has also widened. It now includes:

foreign employees under contract with Georgian companies,
independent contractors and entrepreneurs,
and foreigners working remotely for Georgian employers.

However, a permit alone is not enough. Every migrant must also hold a legal basis of stay such as a work residence permit, a D1 immigration visa, or another residence permit recognized by Georgian law. Only by combining work authorization with lawful residence can foreigners conduct profit-generating activities in Georgia.

How the System Will Work

Applications will differ depending on the type of work. Employers must apply on behalf of foreign employees, while self-employed foreigners must file personally and specify their business field. The review process is capped at 30 calendar days, though fees will be fixed by a separate decree.

Once approved, obligations follow quickly: foreigners abroad must apply for a D1 visa within 30 days, while those already in Georgia must secure a residence permit within 10 days. Current residence permit holders, or remote service providers who never enter Georgia, are exceptions. Still, uncertainty remains around non-resident entrepreneurs who earn taxable income in Georgia, leaving room for further clarification.

Compliance and Penalties

The reform is paired with strict sanctions. Unauthorized work will trigger a fine of 2,000 GEL per migrant, with repeat offenses doubling or even tripling the penalty. Georgian employers and individuals engaging unauthorized migrants will also face liability.

A transition period is in place: those already registered before March 1, 2026 must obtain permits and residence documentation by January 1, 2027.

Final Thoughts

This reform reflects Georgia’s effort to align labor migration rules with international standards while tightening compliance. For businesses, it means adjusting HR and compliance procedures. For foreign entrepreneurs, it means navigating new residence and work authorization requirements.

Further regulations will soon detail forms, documentation, and monitoring procedures. Until then, businesses and individuals should prepare for a system that is more formalized, stricter, but ultimately clearer than before.

Disclaimer

This article is for general informational purposes only and reflects the law as of August 2025. It does not constitute legal advice. For tailored guidance, please contact us or any other qualified legal professional.