Georgia will introduce mandatory work permits for foreigners from March 1, 2026. Find out who will be affected by the new requirement, how the system will work, what exceptions are provided, and what will happen in case of violation

Starting March 1, 2026, Georgia will introduce new employment rules for foreign nationals, including those from Turkmenistan, Nepal, and Pakistan. From now on, most foreigners will need to obtain a valid work permit before starting work in the country. This will be a significant change, as there was no separate permit system before.

In this article, we will look at who will be affected by the new rules, how the system will work, and what consequences await foreigners and employers.

What were the rules for foreigners working in Georgia before?

Until now, Georgia was considered one of the most open countries in the region for foreign workers. All you had to do was have a visa, a residence permit, or be exempt from visa requirements to work legally. No separate work permits were required.

But starting in 2026, this practice will change.

New rules for obtaining a work permit in Georgia

From March 1, 2026, the following must obtain a work permit:

- Foreign workers who are hired by a company in Georgia;

- Self-employed individuals and foreign freelancers

The application will be submitted by the employer on behalf of the employee.

Who will be exempt from applying for a work permit?

The following will not be subject to the new requirement:

- Permanent residence holders;

- Refugees and asylum seekers;

- Holders of investment residence permits.

The government is expected to clarify and expand the list of exceptions in future regulations.

Transitional period for obtaining a work permit in Georgia

Foreigners who will already be working in Georgia by March 1, 2026 will have to apply for a work permit by January 1, 2027.

This almost one-year transition period will allow for legal continuation of activities and preparation for new requirements.

How long will it take to process applications for a work permit in Georgia?

According to preliminary information from the government, the standard processing of a permit application will take up to 30 calendar days.

However, it is not yet known how transparent and simple the procedure itself will be.

Liability for violation of Georgian labor legislation

Working without a permit will have serious consequences:

Fines will be imposed on both the employee and the employer;

In case of repeated violation, sanctions may double or even triple.

For companies that hire international specialists, compliance with the new requirements will become a mandatory condition for doing business.

Challenges for employers

Businesses that depend on foreign personnel will face:

- additional administrative burden (in addition to visa and ID procedures);

- new costs;

- possible delays in hiring key specialists;

-risk of refusals in issuing permits.

Why are changes being introduced to the procedure for issuing work permits in Georgia?

The authorities explain the innovation by the desire to strengthen control over the labor market. The main goals:

- tracking the recruitment of foreign labor;

- stopping illegal work under the guise of tourism;

- protecting local workers.

What's next?

Only a general concept is known at the moment. More detailed rules are expected in the coming months, which will determine:

- criteria for obtaining permits;

- application procedure;

- list of exceptions.

Georgia is gradually making employment conditions more difficult for foreigners. If you plan to work or do business in the country, you should prepare for the changes now.

The days when you could just come and start working without additional permits are a thing of the past.

The new rules may seem complicated for both foreigners and businesses. To avoid fines and delays, it is worth preparing documents in advance and submitting an application correctly. Our migration specialists will help you:

- obtain a work permit in Georgia;

- prepare a package of documents;

- accompany the process for employees and employers;

- understand the exceptions and nuances of the legislation.

Contact us today - and work in Georgia legally and without unnecessary hassle.

Reminder! Starting in 2026, Singapore will change the salary criteria for the Employment Pass. We have already told you how the COMPASS system works, what points applicants need and what employers should consider.

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