---
title: "Bank License Applications"
url: "https://legal.ge/en/service/banking-and-finance-law-en/bank-license-applications-en"
field: "Banking & Finance Law"
description: "Banking license application in Georgia. National Bank requirements, minimum capital, regulatory approval process, and legal advisory for banks."
reviewed: "2026-06-27"
updated: "2026-11-08"
publisher: "Legal.Ge"
---

# Bank License Applications

> Source: Legal.Ge, https://legal.ge/en/service/banking-and-finance-law-en/bank-license-applications-en

Obtaining a banking license in Georgia is one of the most complex, labor-intensive, and highly regulated processes. The National Bank of Georgia (NBG) sets the highest standards for entrants to the banking sector to ensure financial system stability. Obtaining a license involves more than just filling out an application; it is a multi-stage process involving detailed scrutiny of the business model, source of capital, management team qualifications, and IT infrastructure. Recently, a "Digital Bank" licensing model was introduced, opening opportunities for fintech companies. This service involves full legal and consulting support for license applicants, from preparatory work to obtaining the final license.

## What Does the Bank License Application Service Cover?

Banking law experts on our platform offer a comprehensive service package:

-   **Preliminary Consultation and Structuring:** Assessing the business model, selecting the license type (traditional vs. digital), and setting up the corporate structure.
-   **Documentation Preparation:** Drafting founding documents, business plans, strategic development plans, and internal policies (credit, risk, AML).
-   **"Fit and Proper" Tests:** Verifying and documenting compliance of administrators and significant shareholders with eligibility criteria.
-   **Capital Verification:** Confirming the authorized capital (minimum 50 million GEL) and the legality of its origin.
-   **Communication with NBG:** Representation at the NBG during all stages of application review, answering questions, and rectifying deficiencies.

## Common Scenarios and Challenges

Clients often face the following challenges during the banking licensing process:

-   **Creating a Digital Bank:** A tech startup wants a banking license. The difficulty lies not only in capital but also in meeting complex IT infrastructure and cybersecurity standards.
-   **Foreign Investor Entry:** A foreign banking group wants to open a subsidiary in Georgia. It requires legalization of international documents and demonstrating a transparent ownership structure.
-   **Approval of Administrators:** The NBG may refuse to appoint a director due to insufficient experience or past reputational issues.
-   **Source of Funds:** The investor fails to convincingly demonstrate the legal origin of funds, which becomes grounds for license refusal.

The full text is available on Legal.Ge after signing in: https://legal.ge/en/service/banking-and-finance-law-en/bank-license-applications-en

### May deposits be taken without a licence?

No — a banking or microbank licence is required.

### What is a conditional licence?

A form provided for a commercial bank.

### Are shareholders scrutinized?

Yes — capital sources and even beneficial owners.

### What about a holding?

Supervision extends to the group level.