Georgia Work Visa – Application, Requirements and Duration
Are you seeking to expand your business operations to Georgia? You may want to move with some of your employees abroad to make the process easier. First, however, it behooves you to ensure your employees possess the necessary documentation to live and work legally in Georgia. It begins with getting a valid Georgia work visa for your employees. Getting a work visa takes a few weeks.
This article will reveal all you need to know about the Georgia visa: its application, requirements, types, and fees.
Types of Work Visas in Georgia
According to the Georgia ministry of foreign affairs, foreigners who intend to travel to Georgia will have to start the process by deciding what type of visa they would require as well as what status of residence they should go for. Categories of visas in Georgia include:
- Diplomatic visas (Type A)
- Special visas (Type B)
- Ordinary visas (Type C)
- Immigration visas (Type D)
- Transit visas (Type C)
Among the above-listed categories, applicants can choose either a short-term or a long-term visa. Short-term visas are usually available with single or multiple entries, while long-term visas allow multiple entries. Foreigners who want to work in Georgia will need long-term access, which serves as a work permit and allows the holder to get a residence permit after arriving in Georgia.
Requirements to Obtain Georgia Work Visas
Visa requirements differ from one embassy to another. Although some of the basic needs include:
- A duly completed and signed visa application document
- A valid passport with a blank page for any entry stamp
- An employment contract with a firm based in Georgia
- Payment of the visa fee
Georgia Visa Application Process
Foreign nationals must start the visa application process by contacting the nearest Georgian consulate or embassy. The officials at the embassy should be able to provide them with an accurate, up-to-date list of the requirements for the visa.
Next, expatriates can apply for a visa online via Georgia’s e-application submission process. Applicants are required to gather all necessary supporting documents before starting their visa application.
When done with the online phase, the applicant must also submit an additional hard copy of the completed application form and the required documents to the embassy. When the need arises, the applicant can mail these documents to the embassy, especially if submitting them in person proves difficult.
Upon approval of the visa application, the employee is free to travel to Georgia. However, once in Georgia, they’ll need to obtain a residence permit from the Public Service development agency. Spouses and dependents traveling to Georgia with the employee will also need residence permits. Residence permits for expatriates are valid for one year, after which they are eligible for renewal for up to five years.
NB: The processing time for a long-term visa is usually 30 days, so employees would have to consider their intended start date in Georgia and plan accordingly so as to meet up with the schedule. Foreign employees should also remember that they cannot work in Georgia with a tourist visa or other short-term visa. It was allowed in recent years, but the visa policy has changed.
Visa-free regime for select countries
Any foreign national who wants to enter Georgia must first obtain a Georgian visa, which is placed in the traveler’s passport (a visa blank) or is issued electronically (electronic visa). However, some international travelers may be qualified to travel to Georgia without a visa if they meet the requirements for visa-free travel.
The visa policy of Georgia has been comparatively liberal in recent times, allowing citizens of 98 countries to enter, reside, work and study in Georgia without needing to obtain either a visa or residence permit.
In addition, the Georgian government approved the list of 50 nations whose visa and residence permit holders can enter Georgia without a visa for a certain period and under appropriate conditions.
The countries affected are listed here in no particular order: EU States, Botswana, Holy See, Moldova, Seychelles, Albania, Brazil, Honduras, Monaco, Singapore, Andorra, British Dependent Territories (1), Iceland, Montenegro, South Africa, Antigua and Barbuda, British Overseas Territories(2), Iran (45 days), Netherlands Territories(5), South Korea, Argentina, Brunei, Israel, New Zealand, Switzerland, Armenia, Canada, Japan, Norway, Tajikistan, Australia, Chile (90/180 days), Kazakhstan, Oman, Thailand, Azerbaijan, Colombia, Kuwait, Panama, Turkey, Bahamas, Costa Rica, Kyrgyzstan, Qatar, Turkmenistan, Bahrain, Denmark Territories (3), Lebanon, Russia, Ukraine, Barbados, Dominican Republic, Liechtenstein, Saint Vincent and Grenadines, United Arab Emirates, Belarus, Ecuador, Malaysia, San Marino, United States of America, Belize, El Salvador, Mauritius, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay (90days), Bosnia and Herzegovina, French Republic Territories(4), Mexico, Serbia, Uzbekistan, Jordan.
Other Conditions for Visa exemption
Foreigners who hold valid visas or/and residence permits determined by the decree № 256 of the Government of Georgia may enter and live freely in Georgia for 90 days in any 180 days. International travelers who are holders of the UN’s or its specialized agencies travel documents can enter or stay in Georgia for an entire year without a visa. Holders of diplomatic or official passports of China, Egypt, Guyana, India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Indonesia, and Peru can enter and live in Georgia without a visa.
Citizens residing abroad, who are citizens of the country whose citizens need a visa to enter Georgia, are permitted to cross the state border of Georgia without needing a visa and live in Georgia for no more than four weeks; Foreign nationals holding a Georgian residence permit or a refugee temporary residence permit or a person with humanitarian status for the entire period of the validity of the above-mentioned document.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a foreigner work in Georgia?
Yes, foreigners can work in Georgia. There are a number of visa categories that allow for employment, and the process for obtaining a work permit is relatively straightforward. The main challenge for foreigners looking to work in Georgia is often finding a job that meets their qualifications and experience. There are a number of English-language teaching opportunities available, but other sectors tend to be more challenging to break into.
Does Georgia require a work permit for minors?
Georgia does not require a work permit, but minors must have a work certificate to be employed. The certification verifies that the minor has met the legal requirements to work.
How long does the Georgia visa take?
The Georgia visa process can take up to two weeks, depending on the embassy or consulate you apply through.
Is it easy to migrate to Georgia?
Yes, it is easy to migrate to Georgia. The process is straightforward, and the government provides several resources to help immigrants adjust to their new country. In addition, Georgia is a welcoming and friendly country, and its citizens are welcoming to newcomers.
Is it hard to find a job in Georgia?
There are many opportunities for employment in Georgia. The state’s unemployment rate is currently 4.5%, below the national average of 5%. Major industries in Georgia include agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. In addition, many large companies are headquartered in the state, including Coca-Cola, Home Depot, and Delta Airlines. Job seekers should explore their options and use online resources such as Indeed.com to find the best job for them.
How do I get PR in Georgia?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best way to get PR in Georgia will vary depending on your specific business and marketing goals. However, some tips on how to get PR in Georgia include targeting local publications and bloggers, attending industry events, and establishing yourself as a thought leader in your field.
How do I get a job in Georgia?
You can do a few things to increase your chances of getting a job in Georgia. First, network with people in your industry or field. Attend industry events and get connected with people on LinkedIn. Next, research the companies that you want to work for and figure out what skills they are looking for. Then, tailor your resume and cover letter to match those skills and ensure your social media presence is professional.
What is the highest-paid job in Georgia?
There is no definitive answer to this question since salaries can vary greatly depending on the position and the company. However, some of the highest paying jobs in Georgia include roles in the medical, legal, and technology industries.
How much is a work permit in Georgia?
The cost of a work permit in Georgia varies depending on the permit type and the valid time. Generally, the cost ranges from $50 to $200.
What is Georgia’s national minimum wage?
Georgia’s national minimum wage is $5.15 per hour.
Is Georgia visa-free for Indians?
Yes, all Indian passport holders will need a visit to visit Georgia. Indians are also eligible for an eVisa. The electronic visa system (eVisa) allows Indians to receive Georgia visas online, freeing them from the need to submit original documents or visit Georgian Embassy or Consular Office.
Conclusion
Visiting the beautiful country of Georgia is one of the most fulfilling moments for a first-time traveler. All it takes is getting the Georgia visa that will suit your purpose of travel. As a foreign employee seeking to further your career in Georgia, the above information is enough to get you started on your relocation plans. So use it judiciously and live the Georgian dream.
