The "Remotely from Georgia" program, often referred to as the "Digital Nomad Visa," is a special initiative for foreign freelancers and remote employees. However, technically, this is not a classic visa; it was an entry permit that granted certain privileges during the pandemic. Nowadays, digital nomads mostly utilize the 1-year visa-free regime (available to citizens of 95+ countries) or obtain a standard Work Residence Permit via Individual Entrepreneur status. The main challenge for digital nomads is not entering the country, but long-term legalization and resolving tax residency issues to avoid double taxation and benefit from the 1% income tax ("Small Business" status).
This service covers full legal and tax support for digital nomads. The service includes: registering as an Individual Entrepreneur (IE) and obtaining "Small Business" status, which reduces tax to 1%; obtaining a Work Residence Permit based on IE turnover (necessary for staying longer than 1 year); opening bank accounts, which is often difficult for foreigners; and consulting on tax residency and automatic exchange of information (CRS). Lawyers also assist nomads in bringing and legalizing their family members.
In real life, digital nomad services are essential for those wanting to establish themselves legally. For example, a German programmer works from Georgia. He wants to pay taxes here to benefit from the low rate and avoid paying in Germany. For this, he needs a tax residency certificate and a residence permit. Another scenario: a Russian freelancer whose 1-year visa-free period is expiring. He needs a residence permit, for which he must show legal income in a Georgian account. A lawyer helps him plan this process correctly.
The legal framework relies on the "Tax Code" and the "Law on the Legal Status of Aliens." Although a specific "Digital Nomad Visa" does not exist as a separate category in legislation, in practice, the D1 visa and Work Residence Permit are used. Registering as an IE and showing an annual turnover of 50,000 GEL (per foreigner) is a prerequisite for obtaining residence.
The process begins with registering as an IE at the Public Service Hall. Then an application for Small Business status is made at the Revenue Service. Once sufficient turnover is recorded in the account (about 3-5 months of income), an application for a residence permit is submitted. The lawyer ensures the accuracy of all documents and communication with banks.
Legal.ge is the best platform for digital nomads. Our experts will help you make the most of Georgia's liberal tax system and secure your legal status. Work from anywhere in the world, live in Georgia legally with Legal.ge.
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