By the end of this guide, you’ll know which nationals can enter Georgia visa-free, how to apply for an e-Visa, your extension and overstay options, special exemptions, common pitfalls—and much more. Let’s begin.
Visa-Free Entry and Eligible Countries
Georgia’s liberal entry rules let citizens of many nations visit without applying for a visa in advance:
Visa-free for up to 360 days (one year):
– Citizens of EU member states, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea and several others ¹{:target=”_blank”}.
Visa-free for up to 90 days:
– Nationals of dozens more countries, including India, China and most Gulf states ¹{:target=”_blank”}.
¹ Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs – “Do I need a visa to enter Georgia?”
Applying for an E-Visa
If your country isn’t on the visa-free list, an e-Visa is often the fastest route.
- Visit the official portal: e-Visa Application Portal{:target=”_blank”}
- Check your country’s eligibility.
- Upload required documents and pay fees (currently $20–$50 depending on nationality).
- Receive approval by email in 3–5 business days.
Required Documents & Biometric Data
– A passport valid for ≥ 6 months
– Recent passport-style photo
– Proof of accommodation or invitation letter
– Travel itinerary or return ticket
– Visa-fee payment receipt
Georgia collects facial images during e-Visa interviews at consulates; some applicants may be asked to provide fingerprints upon arrival ²{:target=”_blank”}.
² Wikipedia – Visa policy of Georgia (country)
Transit Visas
If you plan to pass through Georgia en route elsewhere, note:
– Nationals requiring a visa for Georgia need a transit visa even if airport-to-airport transfer ³{:target=”_blank”}.
– Transit visas are valid for up to 5 days and cost $20.
³ iVisa – Georgia Transit Visa Requirements
Visa-on-Arrival & Special Exemptions
Visa-on-Arrival Options
As of 2024, Georgia does not offer a general visa-on-arrival. All non–visa-free travelers must secure an e-Visa or a sticker visa before arrival.
Diplomatic, Official & Service Passports
Holders of diplomatic, official, or service passports from China, India, Egypt and several other nations enter visa-free for up to 360 days ⁴{:target=”_blank”}.
⁴ Georgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Passport exemptions
Stateless Persons & Refugees
Stateless individuals and recognized refugees residing in EU countries, Ukraine, the UK or the US may apply for an e-Visa under the same conditions as nationals of their country of residence ⁵{:target=”_blank”}.
⁵ UNHCR – Guidance on travel documents for refugees
Health Requirements
Georgia requires proof of vaccination against Hepatitis A for some travelers ⁶{:target=”_blank”}. No other mandatory vaccines are enforced but carrying an international vaccine record is highly advised.
⁶ World Health Organization – International Travel and Health
Navigating Visa Types, Extensions & Penalties
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Visas
- Short-term (Type D): up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
- Long-term (Type D00): up to 1 year for study, work or family reunification.
Extending Your Stay
Extensions up to 6 months are possible by applying to the Public Service Hall in Tbilisi or regional offices with:
1. Copy of your passport and current visa stamp
2. Proof of reasons for extension
3. Fee payment (approx. 100 GEL) ⁷{:target=”_blank”}.
⁷ Advantour – Georgia visa extension procedures
Overstay Penalties
Overstaying carries fines from 50 GEL per day and possible entry bans of up to 5 years ⁸{:target=”_blank”}.
⁸ Georgian Migration Code – Overstay penalties
Appealing a Visa Refusal
If your visa is denied, you have 30 days to request a review from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Include:
– Written appeal
– Additional supporting documents
– Appeal fee receipt
Historical Shifts & EU Association Agreement Impact
Georgia’s visa policy has evolved significantly over the past decade:
– In 2010, visa-free access was limited to CIS states.
– By 2014, 90-day visa-free stays extended to EU nationals.
– The 2016 EU-Georgia Association Agreement set a roadmap for possible future visa liberalization with the Schengen area ⁹{:target=”_blank”}.
⁹ European External Action Service – EU-Georgia Association Agreement
Tourism Trends & Visa Policy Effects
According to the National Statistics Office of Georgia, international visitor arrivals rose from 6.5 million in 2019 to 8.7 million in 2023 ¹⁰{:target=”_blank”}, driven largely by expanded visa-free regimes.
¹⁰ Geostat – Tourism data for Georgia
Final Boarding Call
Now you’ve got the full picture—from who needs a visa (and how to get it) to special exemptions, extension rules and even appeal tips. With Georgia’s open-door stance and straightforward e-Visa system, you’re ready for your next adventure in the Caucasus. Safe travels!