Emigrating to Georgia in 2025 is becoming increasingly relevant for citizens of the CIS countries, Europe, and even North America. Georgia’s welcoming immigration policy, low taxes, mild climate, safety, and affordable cost of living make it an ideal destination for both temporary and permanent relocation.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to move to Georgia step by step, what documents are required for emigration, what taxes foreigners pay, the cost of living in various cities, and how to obtain a residence permit (residency permit / TRP).
📌 This article is part of a comprehensive guide on emigration to friendly CIS and Eastern European countries. It complements the material: How to move to the EU in 2025.
Table of Contents
- Why Choose Georgia for Emigration?
- Ways to Move to Georgia in 2025
- Required Documents for Emigration to Georgia
- Cost of Living in Georgia in 2025
- Taxes in Georgia for Foreigners
- How to Register as an Individual Entrepreneur (IE)
- Best Cities in Georgia for Expats
- Daily Life and Adaptation in Georgia
- Pros and Cons of Emigrating to Georgia
- FAQ
1. Why Choose Georgia for Emigration?
Georgia offers a unique combination of Eastern hospitality and a European spirit of freedom. In recent years, it has become an attractive destination for freelancers, IT professionals, entrepreneurs, and retirees seeking a peaceful life in a beautiful setting.
Key reasons why emigrating to Georgia in 2025 makes sense:
- Visa-free stay up to 365 days for citizens of over 90 countries, including Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Kazakhstan, EU countries, and the USA.
- Simple residence permit process — applications can be submitted while already in Georgia.
- Liberal tax system, especially for freelancers and small businesses.
- Safety — low crime rates.
- High-quality natural food, fresh air, mountains, sea, and thermal springs.
- Infrastructure for digital nomads — fast internet, coworking spaces, English-speaking community.
- Affordable rent and cost of living.
2. Ways to Move to Georgia in 2025
2.1. Visa-Free Entry
Citizens of most CIS and European countries can stay in Georgia for up to 1 year without a visa. This gives you a unique opportunity to relocate without facing bureaucratic hurdles immediately.
Countries with visa-free access for 365 days include:
- Russia
- Ukraine
- Belarus
- Kazakhstan
- Armenia
- Moldova
- Azerbaijan
- All EU countries
- USA, Canada
- Turkey, and others
After 365 days, you can leave for a day (e.g., to Turkey, Armenia, or Azerbaijan) and re-enter to reset your stay. However, for long-term residence, it is advisable to obtain a residence permit (TRP).
2.2. Residence Permits in Georgia
A residence permit (TRP) is essential for long-term living, opening bank accounts, registering a business, enrolling children in school, and accessing healthcare.
Types of residence permits available in Georgia in 2025:
| Type of Permit | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Investment | Minimum investment of $300,000 in real estate or business. TRP is valid for 5 years. |
| Employment | A contract with a Georgian company or self-employment (freelance/business registration). |
| Business | Register as an entrepreneur (individual) with a minimum turnover of $12,000 per year. |
| Retirement | Age 60+ with a confirmed monthly income or pension of at least $2,000. |
| Student | Enrollment in an accredited Georgian university or college. |
| Family Reunification | For spouses, children, or parents of Georgian citizens or residents. |
Important: After 5 years of continuous residence, you can apply for permanent residency (PR).
3. Required Documents for Emigration to Georgia
Your move to Georgia begins with preparing the necessary paperwork. The list may vary depending on the purpose of your stay, but here’s a general checklist:
Basic documents:
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity).
- Proof of financial means:
- Bank statement;
- Income certificate;
- Property or rental agreement.
- Health insurance (optional but highly recommended).
- Proof of accommodation:
- Rental contract or
- Ownership certificate.
- Supporting documents for your TRP category:
- Employment contract;
- University admission letter;
- Business registration;
- Investment agreement.
You can apply for a residence permit online via or at Houses of Justice (Public Service Halls) in major cities like Tbilisi, Batumi, and Kutaisi.
4. Cost of Living in Georgia in 2025
One of Georgia’s main advantages is the low cost of living — especially when compared to cities like Moscow, Kyiv, Warsaw, or Berlin.
| Category | Tbilisi | Batumi | Kutaisi |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-bedroom apartment (central) | $400–$500 | $300–$400 | $200–$300 |
| 1-bedroom apartment (suburbs) | $250–$350 | $200–$300 | $150–$250 |
| Utilities | $50–$100 | $40–$80 | $30–$70 |
| Mobile/Internet | $8–$15/month | $8–$15 | $8–$12 |
| Groceries (1 person) | $150–$250 | $120–$200 | $100–$180 |
| Meal at a local cafe | $4–$8 | $3–$6 | $3–$5 |
| Public transport (metro/bus) | $0.30 per ride | $0.25 | $0.25 |
💡Tip: Off-season rental prices in Batumi (autumn/winter) may be 30–50% lower.
5. Taxes in Georgia for Foreigners
Georgia offers one of the most favorable tax regimes in Eastern Europe, particularly attractive to freelancers, IT professionals, and small business owners.
Key tax rates:
| Tax Type | Rate |
|---|---|
| Personal income tax (residents) | 20% |
| Corporate profit tax | 15% |
| VAT (Value Added Tax) | 18% |
| Dividend tax | 5% |
| Property tax | 0.1%–1% (depending on value/type) |
| Micro-business tax (up to ~$11,000/year) | 0% |
| Small business tax (up to ~$185,000/year) | 1% of turnover |
If you are a remote worker with foreign clients and register as a small business (IE) in Georgia, you may pay as little as 1% tax on income and be exempt from VAT.
6. How to Register as an Individual Entrepreneur (IE)
If you’re a freelancer or planning to run a business, registering as an individual entrepreneur (IE) is the easiest path toward legalization and residency.
Steps to register as an IE:
- Prepare your passport and proof of address in Georgia.
- Visit a House of Justice (or register online).
- Submit your registration application.
- Obtain a tax ID.
- Register with the tax authority.
The entire process takes 1 business day. Registration fee is around $20 USD.
7. Best Cities in Georgia for Expats
Tbilisi
The capital, cultural and economic hub of Georgia. Ideal for those who prefer a large city with all amenities.
Pros: Full infrastructure, embassies, airport, old town charm, nightlife.
Cons: Higher rent, traffic congestion.
Batumi
A seaside resort city on the Black Sea. Great for digital nomads and those who love the beach.
Pros: Sea, beaches, affordable rent, international community.
Cons: Humid climate, seasonal economy.
Kutaisi
A peaceful city in Western Georgia. Cozy and affordable.
Pros: Low cost, own airport, fewer tourists.
Cons: Limited entertainment options.
8. Daily Life and Adaptation in Georgia
Language and Communication
- Official language: Georgian.
- Russian is widely understood in daily life.
- English is spoken in the IT sector and among the younger population.
Banking System
- Easy to open a bank account — passport and local address required.
- Recommended banks: TBC Bank, Bank of Georgia, Liberty.
- Online banking is available in English.
Internet & Mobile
- Fast internet up to 100 Mbps.
- Major mobile operators: Magti, Geocell, Beeline.
Healthcare
- Private clinics with good services.
- Insurance is optional but recommended.
- Doctor’s consultation: $10–$30.
9. Pros and Cons of Emigrating to Georgia
Pros:
- Easy relocation process
- Visa-free entry
- Affordable lifestyle
- Business-friendly tax system
- Beautiful nature and clean air
- Warm and welcoming people
Cons:
- Language barrier (Georgian alphabet and grammar are challenging)
- Bureaucracy can be slow
- Seasonal fluctuations in tourism-based cities
- Limited job market unless working remotely
Personal Story
I used the individual entrepreneur status in Georgia when relocating from Latvia — registered the IE in just 1 day at the House of Justice in Tbilisi. Immediately connected to online banking via TBC and started paying only 1% tax on turnover under the small business regime. An excellent option for remote work with Europe and the USA.
Conclusion
Emigrating to Georgia in 2025 is a realistic and accessible opportunity to start a new life in a safe, warm, and culturally rich country. Thanks to its visa-free policy, business-friendly tax regime, and simplified residence process, Georgia continues to be one of the most expat-friendly destinations in the region.
If you’re wondering how to move to Georgia step by step, start by arriving on a visa-free basis, explore the country, register a business or find employment, gather the necessary documents, and apply for a residence permit. The process is transparent and can be done independently, without intermediaries.
Ready to begin your journey? Georgia awaits you in 2025 with open arms, delicious food, breathtaking mountains, and countless opportunities for a new life.
10. FAQ
Can you emigrate to Georgia without a visa?
Yes, citizens of Russia, Ukraine, EU countries, the USA, and over 90 countries can stay in Georgia for up to 365 days without a visa. This allows you to arrive, settle in, and apply for a residence permit from within the country if needed.
What is the easiest type of residence permit to get?
Most commonly chosen is residence by business (IE). You only need to register as an individual entrepreneur and show a minimum annual income of $12,000. You can apply online or at local service centers.
What taxes does a freelancer pay in Georgia?
If you’re registered as a small business (up to 500,000 GEL turnover per year), the rate is only 1% of turnover. VAT and income tax are not applied when working with foreign clients.
How difficult is it to rent housing in Tbilisi or Batumi?
Housing is available even without official registration — a passport is enough. On popular sites like ss.ge or myhome.ge, you can find apartments from $250/month in the suburbs and up to $500 in the center. Many landlords speak Russian.
Is health insurance required when moving to Georgia?
Medical insurance is not officially required, but it’s recommended. Private clinics in Tbilisi and Batumi offer quality services, and annual policies cost around $150–$250.
📚 Read also:
How to move to the EU in 2025: visas, housing, work, finances
Useful Resources
