Residence Permit Applications

Do I need a visa to apply for residence?

Yes, you generally need to be in Georgia legally, either on a visa or under the visa-free regime, to apply for a residence permit.

Can I work with any residence permit?

Most residence permits (Work, Investment, Family, Permanent) grant the right to work. Student permits also allow work.

What if my application is rejected?

You have the right to appeal the decision in court within 1 month. You can also re-apply if the grounds for refusal are corrected.

Is health insurance required?

Yes, valid health insurance covering the duration of your stay is a mandatory document for most residence permit applications.

Reading Time

3 min

Published

...

Obtaining a residence permit in Georgia is the most important step for any foreigner planning to live, work, or study in the country long-term. A Residence Permit is an official document confirming a foreigner's right to legally stay in Georgia, access public and private services, open bank accounts, register property, and travel freely. Legislation provides for many types of residence permits: Work, Study, Family Reunification, Investment, Short-term (Real Estate), Permanent, and others. Each category has its specific requirements, deadlines, and documentation. An incorrectly chosen category or a flawed application often becomes grounds for refusal.

This service covers full administrative and legal support for the residence permit application process. The service includes: analyzing your situation and selecting the best category; preparing the complete package of documents (certificates, translations, apostilles); filling out and submitting the application to the Public Service Hall or Agency; auditing financial and property documents (e.g., investment valuation); and representation in communication with state agencies. Lawyers will also assist you in appealing a decision in case of refusal and restoring status.

In real life, obtaining a residence permit is often complicated. For example, a freelancer wants a work residence permit but lacks a standard employment contract with a Georgian company. The lawyer helps them register as an Individual Entrepreneur and prove turnover, which becomes the basis for a work permit. Another scenario: an investor bought an apartment, but its market value fell below $100,000. The lawyer organizes a re-evaluation by a licensed auditor. A third case: a student needs a study permit, but the university letter is incorrectly drafted. The lawyer resolves communication with the university.

The legal framework relies on the "Law on the Legal Status of Aliens and Stateless Persons." The law establishes that residence permits are issued by the Public Service Development Agency. The review period is 10 to 30 days. Special attention is paid to the conclusion of the State Security Service. A residence permit can be temporary (from 6 months to 6 years) or permanent. Applications can also be submitted remotely if the applicant is already in Georgia.

The process begins with a consultation. The lawyer checks if you meet the criteria (e.g., sufficient income or real estate). Then documents are collected and uploaded to the electronic system. The applicant goes to the Public Service Hall for a photograph (or sends a representative if allowed). After a positive response, an electronic residence card is issued.

Legal.ge is your reliable guide through the residence permit labyrinth. Our partners are immigration law experts who know every nuance and trap. Do not risk your future—entrust your residence matter to professionals on Legal.ge.

Updated: ...

Specialists for this service

Loading...