Nestled between Europe and Asia, Georgia has emerged as a top destination for digital nomads and expats seeking adventure, affordability, and a high quality of life. Known for its mountains, wine culture, and warm hospitality, the country offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern convenience. With flexible immigration policies, a booming expat community, and favorable tax rates, moving to Georgia is more accessible than ever.
Flexible entry requirements
Georgia offers one of the most relaxed visa policies in the region, attracting freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote workers alike.
Visa-free entry and permits
Nationals from over 90 countries can enter and stay in Georgia without a visa for up to 365 days:
- No visa or residence permit required for most European, North American, and CIS country citizens for short-term stays.
- For stays beyond one year, apply for a temporary residence permit through the Public Service Hall.
- The application requires a valid passport, proof of income or business, health insurance, and local address.
Remotely from Georgia program
A government-backed scheme launched in 2020 to attract digital nomads and remote professionals:
- Open to citizens of 95 countries.
- Requires proof of monthly income of at least $2,000 or $24,000 in savings.
- Offers legal right to live and work in Georgia for up to 360 days with fast-track approval.
Where to live: best cities for expats
Choosing where to settle depends on your lifestyle preferences—from urban culture to seaside relaxation or wine-country calm:
Sighnaghi: Located in the Kakheti wine region, this picturesque hilltop town is perfect for nature enthusiasts and wine lovers looking for charm and tranquility.
Tbilisi: The capital is the expat hub, offering a thriving café culture, startup scene, coworking spaces, and historical neighborhoods. Ideal for professionals, creatives, and young families.
Batumi: A coastal resort town on the Black Sea. Quieter in winter, bustling in summer. Great for sea lovers and those who enjoy a slower pace of life.
Kutaisi: Georgia’s second-largest city, known for its peaceful vibe, medieval landmarks, and lower cost of living. Appeals to retirees or those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere.
Tax benefits and business climate
Georgia’s tax system is one of the most entrepreneur-friendly in the region, with simplified structures and low rates.
Personal tax residency
You become a tax resident if you spend more than 183 days in Georgia within a 12-month period.
Tax advantages
- 18% VAT (Value Added Tax)
- Self-employed individuals: 1–3% tax on business turnover
- Legal entities: 0% tax on undistributed profits, 15% on distributed profits
- Flat 20% income tax (only on Georgian-sourced income)
- No social security contributions for employees or employers
Work opportunities for expats
While most expats work as freelancers or business owners, international firms and NGOs also provide job openings in the capital.
- To legally work as an employee, you must secure a work permit in addition to a residence permit.
- Startups and digital businesses thrive in Tbilisi, supported by coworking hubs and lenient business registration laws.
- English teachers, consultants, developers, and marketers find freelance and contract work.
Very affordable cost of living
Georgia offers one of the lowest costs of living in Europe. Daily expenses, services, and entertainment are significantly cheaper than in Western cities.
- Rent varies widely: 1-bedroom apartments in central Tbilisi range from €300 to €500/month
- Estimated cost of living for a family of four in Tbilisi: around €2,000/month (excluding rent)
- Utilities, mobile plans, internet, and public transport are inexpensive
- Dining out, groceries, and local produce are affordable
Opening a bank account
Setting up a local bank account is fast and easy.
- Accounts available in GEL, USD, and EUR
- Visit Bank of Georgia or TBC Bank with your passport and a Georgian address
- No residence permit required to open an account
- No minimum deposit; low monthly fees
Language and communication
The official language is Georgian, featuring a unique 33-letter alphabet.
- Learning basic Georgian phrases can ease integration and build rapport
- English is increasingly spoken in cities, particularly among the younger population
- Russian is still widely understood and used, especially outside urban centers
Education for expat families
Most expat families opt for international schools in Tbilisi.
Top schools include:
In Batumi and other regions, bilingual or local private schools are available, such as Georgian American School of Batumi
Healthcare in Georgia
While Georgia has made progress in healthcare reform, private international clinics remain the preferred choice for expats.
- Public hospitals are improving but often lack modern facilities
- Private clinics offer high-quality care, English-speaking doctors, and shorter wait times
- International health insurance is recommended to cover costly treatments and ensure full access
- Important: Medicines containing benzodiazepines or opiates are strictly prohibited—do not import them
Top experiences in Georgia
- Visit Davit Gareja monastery complex on the Azerbaijan border
- Stroll through Tbilisi’s old town and ride the cable car to Narikala Fortress
- Bathe in the sulfur baths of Abanotubani
- Discover Georgian cuisine: try khinkali (dumplings) and khachapuri (cheese bread)
- Sip world-class wines in Kakheti’s vineyards
- Explore Vardzia, the ancient cave monastery
- Hike in the wild landscapes of Tusheti and Svaneti
Pros and cons of expat life in Georgia
| Pros | Cons |
| 365-day visa-free stay for many nationals | Language barrier outside major cities |
| Low taxes and business-friendly policies | Public healthcare can be limited |
| Affordable living and great food | Bureaucracy can be inconsistent |
| Growing digital nomad community | Infrastructure varies by region |
| Natural beauty and rich heritage | Difficulties importing certain medications |
Conclusion: is Georgia right for you?
With its open visa policies, low cost of living, and fast-growing expat ecosystem, Georgia is quickly becoming one of the most attractive relocation destinations in Eurasia. Whether you’re a remote worker, entrepreneur, retiree, or family, the country offers a welcoming and rewarding lifestyle. As always, prepare in advance with the right residence permit, banking setup, and health insurance to ensure a smooth transition. Let Georgia surprise you with its charm, warmth, and opportunities.