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Startup Visa Programs

Does Georgia have a dedicated Startup Visa?

No, there is no specific visa named "Startup Visa," but the Work Residence Permit combined with IT tax incentives serves the same purpose effectively.

How long does it take to get Virtual Zone status?

It typically takes about 10-15 business days after submitting the application to the Ministry of Finance, provided all documents are correct.

Can I get residency if I have no revenue yet?

It's difficult. Residence permits usually require proof of turnover. However, showing substantial investment capital in the company account can sometimes be accepted.

Is crypto mining eligible for tax breaks?

No, cryptocurrency mining and trading do not qualify for Virtual Zone or International Company tax incentives in Georgia.

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Startup Visa Programs represent an innovative immigration opportunity aimed at attracting technological and innovative businesses to Georgia. However, Georgia does not have a separate "Startup Visa" per se; instead, startuppers use work residence or individual entrepreneur status, enhanced by "Virtual Zone Person" or "International Company" status. These statuses offer huge tax benefits (0% corporate tax on IT services, 5% income tax). Our service helps startuppers obtain these statuses, structure their company correctly, and secure residency for founders.

What Does the Startup Visa Service Cover?

The service covers all legal steps necessary for the startup ecosystem:

  • Startup Registration: Founding the company and tailoring the charter to investor requirements (Vesting, Shares).
  • Special Tax Statuses: Preparing applications for "Virtual Zone Person" or "International Company" certificates at the Revenue Service and Ministries of Finance/Economy.
  • Residence Permit: Obtaining residency for founders and team members based on employment or business.
  • Intellectual Property Protection: Registering code, brand, and inventions (Sakpatenti).
  • Banking Support: Assisting tech startups in opening bank accounts.

Real-World Situations When You Need This Service

Startuppers face the following challenges:

  • International Company Status: A foreign IT startup wants to relocate its team to Georgia and benefit from 5% income tax. The lawyer prepares documentation proving 2 years of experience.
  • Lack of Turnover: The startup has no revenue yet but has investment. Proof of turnover is needed for residency. The lawyer helps correctly declare funds (investment vs. revenue).
  • Co-founder Visa: One co-founder is a foreigner and cannot open an account. Legalization via appointment as director is needed.

Georgian Legal Framework

Startup immigration is based on the "Law on the Legal Status of Aliens". Tax benefits are regulated by the "Law on Information Technology Zones" (Virtual Zone) and the Tax Code (International Company). These regulations create a favorable but bureaucratically complex environment.

Process: How a Specialist Works

The lawyer's work includes:

  1. Analysis: Checking startup activity compliance with preferential regimes (IT codes).
  2. Certification: Applying for status.
  3. Immigration: Obtaining residence permits for the team.

Why Legal.ge?

Legal.ge offers lawyers working in the tech sector. We understand startup dynamics. With our help, you get not just a visa, but the best tax regime for your growth.

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Specialists for this service

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