Upcoming Changes in Employment Rules for Foreign Nationals (Effective March 2026)

Starting March 2026, stricter rules will apply to foreign nationals working in Georgia.

Key Changes:

  • Foreigners without a work visa (D1) or residence permit with work rights will be prohibited from any paid activity with local employers or service providers.

  • A work permit will become mandatory before applying for a visa or residence.

Permit Application:

  • Submit an application to the Ministry of Internally Displaced Persons, Labour, Health and Social Affairs.

  • Required documents are not finalized, but work migrants must:

    a) If outside Georgia: apply for a D1 visa within 30 days of permit approval.
    b) If inside Georgia: apply for a residence permit (general or IT-specific) within 10 days.

IT Specialist Residence Permit:
Issued to:

  • Registered labor migrants and their families.

  • Foreigners with small business status in IT (as defined by government decree).

  • Executives or representatives of international IT companies.

Requirements:

  • Proof of 2+ years IT experience.

  • Annual income of at least $25,000 (in GEL equivalent).

  • Power of attorney or proof of company authority.

  • Absence from Georgia for 183+ days within 12 months voids the permit (except for medical reasons).

Penalties:

  • Unauthorized foreign workers, local employers, or anyone facilitating such work face a 2,000 GEL fine per worker.

  • Repeat offenses may result in double/triple fines and further sanctions.

Changes are based on amendments to the Law on the Legal Status of Aliens and Stateless Persons and the Law on Labor Migration.


Our company offers full support with permits, visas, and compliance procedures.