Obtaining a residence permit for Information Technology (IT) specialists in Georgia is one of the most streamlined and attractive procedures, especially since the state introduced the "International Company" status for the IT sector. This status allows IT companies to enjoy tax benefits (5% income tax for employees) and easily employ foreign staff. However, despite the benefits, obtaining a residence permit requires following precise legal procedures, which includes verifying qualifications and properly executing an employment contract. Legal.ge offers specialized services for IT professionals to help them leverage Georgia's tax haven advantages and obtain legal residency rights.
What does this service cover?
Residence permits for IT specialists require specific documentation, particularly regarding qualifications. Our service includes:
- Qualification Verification: Preparing and translating documents confirming competence in the IT field (diploma, certificates, proof of at least 2 years of work experience).
- Employer Status Check: Analyzing whether the employer has "International Company" or "Virtual Zone Person" status, which affects residence issuance conditions.
- Employment Contract Audit: Checking contract terms to ensure compliance with immigration requirements and reflect tax benefits (if applicable).
- Turnover Requirement Management: Monitoring compliance with the standard 50,000 GEL turnover requirement or utilizing exceptions in the case of International Company status.
- Application Submission: Uploading the document package to the Public Service Development Agency and managing the process.
- Family Inclusion: Parallel application for residence permits for the IT specialist's spouse and children.
Common Scenarios and Needs
The IT residence permit is designed for a wide spectrum of the tech sector:
- Software Engineers: Developers working in international IT hubs registered in Georgia (e.g., EPAM, Exadel, etc.).
- IT Project Managers: Specialists managing tech projects who need long-term presence in Georgia.
- DevOps and Cybersecurity Specialists: High-paying roles whose recruitment is a priority for the Georgian market.
- Startup Founders: Foreigners who founded a tech startup in Georgia and want to obtain residence through employment in their own company.
Georgian Legal Framework
The residence process for the IT sector is regulated by the Law of Georgia on the Legal Status of Aliens and Stateless Persons, but Government Resolution No. 619 on the Rule for Defining International Company Status is crucial. Companies with this status enjoy significant benefits, and the residence permit issuance for foreigners employed by them is characterized by more loyal procedures. For employees of an "International Company," income tax is 5% (instead of 20%), as confirmed by the Tax Code of Georgia. To obtain residence, it is necessary to prove that the person possesses relevant qualifications and their remuneration meets market standards.
Step-by-Step Process
The process begins with verifying the company's status (International Company or Virtual Zone). Then, documents confirming the employee's qualifications (diploma, CV, recommendations) are collected. An employment contract with specific tax clauses is prepared. The application is uploaded electronically. It is important that the Agency often checks whether the person actually works in the IT field, so a detailed CV and job description are critical. Upon a positive response, a residence card is issued.
Why Legal.ge?
The IT sector in Georgia is developing rapidly, and regulations change frequently. Legal.ge connects you with lawyers specializing in tech law and migration. They know exactly how to use the advantages of "International Company" status to expedite your residence process. Our specialists ensure that your technical expertise is correctly translated into legal language for the Agency.
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