Question 1

How to open a bank account in Georgia?

Accepted Answer

A physical visit to the agency (Bank of Georgia, TBC) is sufficient. The multi-currency account is opened in 30 to 60 minutes with a passport and proof of address.

Question 2

How much does a Georgian bank account cost?

Accepted Answer

Free opening for non-residents at TBC and Bank of Georgia. A Visa Platinum card costs 20 to 50 GEL per year, with airport lounge access included.

Question 3

Are international transfers fast?

Accepted Answer

A SWIFT transfer to or from Europe arrives within 24 to 48 hours. Wise, Revolut, and Zen also work but have monthly limits.

Question 4

Do I need to declare my bank account in France?

Accepted Answer

Yes, form 3916 is mandatory every year, otherwise, there is a fine of 1,500 EUR per account. The declaration is separate from the IFI.

Question 5

Can I repatriate my rental income freely?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Georgia imposes no exchange controls or withholding tax. Rental income can be transferred abroad monthly without limits.

Question 6

Which bank should a foreigner choose?

Accepted Answer

TBC Bank for its English mobile app and customer service, Bank of Georgia for its branch network and MyCard program. Both cover all needs.

Question 7

How can I protect my capital against the Lari?

Accepted Answer

Open a multi-currency USD/EUR account and keep liquid assets outside of GEL. Mortgage loans are also available in USD.

Question 8

Is there a Georgian equivalent to the French FGDR (deposit guarantee scheme)?

Accepted Answer

Since 2018, the deposit guarantee scheme covers 15,000 GEL per depositor per bank. High-net-worth individuals diversify across several institutions.

Question 9

Do Georgian banks accept cryptocurrencies?

Accepted Answer

No direct crypto accounts, but transfers from regulated exchanges (Bitpanda, Kraken, Bitstamp) are accepted with proof of fund origin.

Question 10

Can a bank card be created remotely?

Accepted Answer

TBC offers remote account opening for non-residents under certain conditions (initial deposit of 5,000 USD, video KYC). The card is dispatched within 15 days.

Question 11

How to open an account with Bank of Georgia?

Accepted Answer

Bank of Georgia opens a multi-currency account in a branch within 30 to 60 minutes with a passport and address. Some remote options are available under initial deposit conditions.

Question 12

How to open an account with TBC Bank?

Accepted Answer

TBC Bank opens a multi-currency account in a branch within 30 to 60 minutes with a passport and address. Some remote options are available under initial deposit conditions.

Question 13

How to open an account with Liberty Bank?

Accepted Answer

Liberty Bank opens a multi-currency account in a branch within 30 to 60 minutes with a passport and address. Some remote options are available under initial deposit conditions.

Question 14

How to open an account with Credo Bank?

Accepted Answer

Credo Bank opens a multi-currency account in a branch within 30 to 60 minutes with a passport and address. Some remote options are available under initial deposit conditions.

Question 15

How to open an account with Basisbank?

Accepted Answer

Basisbank opens a multi-currency account in a branch within 30 to 60 minutes with a passport and address. Some remote options are available under initial deposit conditions.

Question 16

Where can I find a bank branch in Tbilissi?

Accepted Answer

In Tbilissi, TBC Bank and Bank of Georgia have several branches open 7 days a week in commercial areas. Making an appointment beforehand speeds up account opening.

Question 17

Where can I find a bank branch in Batumi?

Accepted Answer

In Batumi, TBC Bank and Bank of Georgia have several branches open 7 days a week in commercial areas. Making an appointment beforehand speeds up account opening.

Question 18

Where can I find a bank branch in Gonio?

Accepted Answer

In Gonio, TBC Bank and Bank of Georgia have several branches open 7 days a week in commercial areas. Making an appointment beforehand speeds up account opening.

Question 19

Where can I find a bank branch in Gudauri?

Accepted Answer

In Gudauri, TBC Bank and Bank of Georgia have several branches open 7 days a week in commercial areas. Making an appointment beforehand speeds up account opening.

Question 20

Where can I find a bank branch in Koutaïssi?

Accepted Answer

In Koutaïssi, TBC Bank and Bank of Georgia have several branches open 7 days a week in commercial areas. Making an appointment beforehand speeds up account opening.

Question 21

Where can I find a bank branch in Kobuleti?

Accepted Answer

In Kobuleti, TBC Bank and Bank of Georgia have several branches open 7 days a week in commercial areas. Making an appointment beforehand speeds up account opening.

Question 22

Which multi-currency card should I choose?

Accepted Answer

TBC Bank and Bank of Georgia are the leaders in welcoming non-residents; RUSTAVELI PROPERTIES provides letter templates and prepares the account opening file.

Question 23

How can I enable online payments?

Accepted Answer