Georgia's new rules in 2025 and 2026: what Iranians need to know

Georgia, long known for simple immigration rules, has tightened control over foreigners' presence and work since 2025. The main changes:

1. Work permits for everyone (from 1 March 2026)

Every employed or self-employed foreigner, even a company owner or 1% individual entrepreneur, needs a work permit; the fine for violations is GEL 2,000. Registered labour migrants have until 1 January 2027. Details

2. Property residence costs more (from 1 March 2026)

The property threshold rose from $100,000 to $150,000; existing holders renew while keeping the property. Buying property

3. Mandatory travel insurance (from 1 January 2026)

All visitors must hold insurance covering at least GEL 30,000. Entering Georgia

4. A new IT residence permit (from 1 September 2025)

For IT professionals with 2 years' experience and at least $25,000 a year in pay; a 3-year card.

5. Tighter enforcement

• Heavier overstay fines and entry bans of up to 3 years.
• A database of unlawfully present foreigners and wider biometric collection.
• Appeals against residence refusals no longer suspend orders to leave.
• The temporary residence fee rose to GEL 300.

6. The 1% tax

Since March 2026, zero-income months must also be filed, and status revoked mid-year cannot be restored until the next year. Tax and banking

Our advice

Georgia is still a good option for Iranians, but you can no longer arrive and work without a plan. Before travelling, plan your residence route, work permit and bank account with a lawyer. Imperial's Tbilisi law office supports you along the way.

Position as of October 2026.