The Comprehensive Digital Nomad Guide to Georgia

The 365-Day Entry Policy

Citizens from over countries can enter Georgia without a pre-arranged visa. This entry allows for a stay of year. Unlike other nomadic destinations, Georgia permits remote work on this visitor status without additional permits.

Remotely from Georgia Strategy

While the 1-year visa-free stay is the primary route, the 'Remotely from Georgia' program was launched to formalize the presence of remote workers. It targets freelancers and full-time employees of foreign companies. Applicants must demonstrate a monthly income of at least USD. This program serves as a bridge for those who may eventually seek legal residency status through entrepreneurship.

The Small Business Status (SBS)

Georgia offers a unique tax regime for solo entrepreneurs. If your annual turnover is below GEL, you may qualify for a tax rate of only percent.

• Eligibility: Most consulting and digital services qualify.
• Exclusions: Gambling, financial services, and certain specialized consulting may be excluded.
• Compliance: You must maintain a basic ledger and file monthly returns via the Revenue Service portal.

Personal Income Tax

Standard personal income tax for residents is percent. However, if your income is sourced from outside Georgia and you do not have a local tax presence, specific exemptions may apply under the Georgian Tax Code.

The cost of living transitions significantly between the capital, Tbilisi, and the coastal city of Batumi.

Monthly Expenditure Estimates

A single nomad can expect a monthly budget of approximately USD including rent.

• Rent: A high-end one-bedroom apartment in Vake or Saburtalo costs roughly USD.
• Utilities: High-speed internet averages USD per month.
• Dining: Local meals are priced at USD, while international cuisine is slightly higher.

Public transport is highly affordable, with metro and bus fares costing GEL per trip.

Many nomads transition to property ownership to secure residency.

The USD Residency Threshold

To obtain a residence permit through real estate, the property market value must exceed USD. This must be verified by an accredited appraiser.

New-Build VAT Realities

When purchasing a new-build property from a developer, an percent VAT is always included in the final price. Buyers should not expect a VAT-free transaction on primary market assets. Secondary market transactions between individuals do not attract VAT. Rental yields in Tbilisi currently average percent, making it an attractive investment alongside lifestyle benefits.

1. Check Eligibility: Confirm your passport allows for the 365-day visa-free entry.

2. Arrival and Accommodation: Secure a short-term rental in central Tbilisi (Sololaki, Vera, or Vake).

3. Tax Registration: Visit the Public Service Hall to register as an Individual Entrepreneur.

4. Apply for Small Business Status: This takes approximately 2 business days to activate.

5. Bank Account Opening: Present your passport and business registration. Some banks require a 'Know Your Customer' (KYC) fee of GEL.

6. Local SIM Card: Purchase a SIM with unlimited 4G/5G data for roughly GEL per month.

Connectivity Metrics

Average fixed broadband speeds in Tbilisi reach Mbps. Mobile data coverage is extensive, even in mountainous regions like Kazbegi.

Major Hubs

• Tbilisi: Features over major coworking spaces, including international chains and local boutique hubs.
• Batumi: Offers a growing scene mainly concentrated in the New Boulevard area.
• Kutaisi: Emerging as a lower-cost alternative with a smaller but dedicated nomadic community.

Addressing Misconceptions

Many nomads believe the 1-year visa is equivalent to tax residency. This is incorrect. Tax residency is generally triggered after spending days in the country within a 12-month period.

Bureaucratic Navigation

The Public Service Hall (Justice House) is the central point for all administrative tasks. While efficient, it is recommended to bring a local translator for complex residency applications. Always ensure your rental agreement is notarized if you intend to use it as proof of address for official residency permits.

Georgia does not require mandatory health insurance for the 1-year entry. However, to apply for the 'Remotely from Georgia' program or any residence permit, valid health insurance is required. Private healthcare in Tbilisi is of a high standard, with clinics catering specifically to expats. A basic annual health insurance plan for an expat costs approximately USD.

The Georgian banking sector is highly digitalized. The two dominant banks offer sophisticated mobile apps in English.

• Multi-currency accounts: Standard accounts include GEL, USD, EUR, and GBP.
• Interest Rates: Savings accounts in GEL can offer up to percent annual interest, which is significantly higher than EU averages.
• International Transfers: Georgia is part of the SEPA zone (joining process), making transfers from Europe increasingly efficient.

Scenario A: The US Freelancer

A software developer registers as a Georgian Individual Entrepreneur. By billing USD annually and obtaining Small Business Status, they pay tax. Their lifestyle in Tbilisi costs USD, allowing for a savings rate of over.

Scenario B: The European Remote Employee

An employee of a German firm stays for 10 months. They remain on the 1-year visa. Since they do not register a business, they may remain liable for German taxes under the Double Taxation Treaty, but enjoy the significantly lower cost of living in Georgia for their day-to-day expenses.