Do I need a visa for Georgia?

Many nationalities (EU, USA, UK, UAE, etc.) can enter visa-free for up to one year. Check the official Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs list for your specific nationality.

How long can I stay in Georgia on a tourist visa?

A standard Georgian e-visa allows for a stay of up to 30 or 90 days within a 120 or 180-day period, depending on your nationality.

Can I extend my tourist visa while in Georgia?

No, most tourist visas are not eligible for extension. You must leave the country before your visa expires.

Does a Schengen visa allow me to enter Georgia?

If you hold a valid visa or residence permit from a Schengen country, OECD member state, or GCC country, you may be eligible for visa-free entry for 90 days.

Is travel insurance mandatory for Georgia?

While not strictly mandatory for visa-free travellers, it is a legal requirement for visa holders and highly recommended for all visitors to cover medical emergencies.

Can I get a refund if my visa is denied?

The e-visa fee is non-refundable, even if your application is rejected or you do not travel.

Can I work in Georgia on a tourist visa?

Standard tourist visas do not permit employment. You would need a specific D-category immigration visa and a work permit to work legally.

Do I need a transit visa for a layover in Tbilisi?

A transit visa is required if you are leaving the airport transit zone. If you stay within the international transit area, you typically do not need one.

visa type country

tourist visa

Georgia Tourist Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time

Georgia has become one of the most accessible and welcoming destinations in the Caucasus, offering a streamlined visa process for international travellers. While citizens of many nations enjoy visa-free entry for up to a year, others can easily apply for an Electronic Visa (e-Visa) or a traditional consular visa to explore the country's stunning mountain landscapes, ancient wine traditions, and vibrant capital, Tbilisi. The Georgian tourist visa is designed for short-term visits, including sightseeing, visiting friends and family, and cultural exchange. The government maintains a modern portal for applications, making the process relatively straightforward as long as you provide accurate documentation. Please note that visa policies are subject to change; always verify the latest requirements with the official Georgian embassy or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before completing your travel plans.

Key highlights

Easy online E-Visa application for eligible nationalities
Visa-free entry for citizens of over 90 countries for up to one year
Multiple entry options often available for tourists
Affordable government processing fees
Electronic visas sent directly via email
Flexible entry requirements for residents of GCC and Schengen zones

Processing time

5 working days for E-Visas; 10-15 days for Consular visas

Processing times begin once the payment is confirmed. It is recommended to apply at least 2 weeks before your intended travel date.

Estimated cost

$20 - $100 depending on route

E-Visa Government Fee$20.00 (plus service fees)
Consular Submission Fee (if applying via embassy)Varies

Requirements

Passport must have at least two blank pages for stamps
Passport validity must extend at least 6 months beyond the stay period
Sufficient funds to cover the duration of the trip (approx. $50 USD per day)
A clear, scanned copy of the passport biodata page
Recent digital colour photograph following official guidelines
Valid email address for receiving the E-Visa notification
Credit or debit card for online fee payment
No prior record of illegal entry into occupied territories (Abkhazia/South Ossetia)
Consistency between application data and passport details

Documents you'll need

Valid passport with at least 6 months validity from entry date
Digital passport-sized photograph (3.5 x 4.5 cm)
Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)
Travel health insurance valid for the duration of stay
Proof of sufficient financial means (bank statements)
Round-trip flight tickets or travel itinerary
Document proving purpose of travel (e.g., tour booking)
Proof of occupation or student status

How to apply, step by step

1
Determine Eligibility
Visit the official Georgian E-Visa portal or prepare documents for the nearest embassy.
2
Fill Application Form
Complete the online application form with accurate personal, passport, and travel information.
3
Upload Documents
Upload your digital passport photo and a scan of your passport's information page.
4
Pay the Fee
Pay the non-refundable visa fee using a credit or debit card through the secure portal.
5
Email Verification
Confirm your application via the link sent to your email address within the specified timeframe.
6
Wait for Processing
The Ministry will review your application; you can track the status online using your application code.
7
Receive and Print Visa
Once approved, download and print the E-Visa to present to border officials upon arrival.

Tips to avoid refusal

Ensure your passport photo has a plain white background and no shadows.
Double-check that your passport number is entered exactly as it appears, including any letters.
Never book non-refundable flights until your visa has been officially approved.
Be aware that entry to Abkhazia or South Ossetia from Russia is illegal under Georgian law and will lead to visa denial or arrest.
Keep a printed copy of your travel insurance and hotel booking with your visa at the border.
Calculate your stay carefully to ensure you do not exceed the 90/180 day rule.

Frequently asked questions

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Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.

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