---
title: "Startup Visa Programs"
url: "https://legal.ge/en/service/migration-and-immigration-law-en/startup-visa-programs-en"
field: "Migration & Immigration Law"
description: "Georgia startup visa and IT tax incentives. Virtual Zone status, 0% corporate tax for IT, startup residency programs, and legal support."
reviewed: "2026-06-27"
updated: "2026-11-07"
publisher: "legal.ge"
---

# Startup Visa Programs

> Source: legal.ge, https://legal.ge/en/service/migration-and-immigration-law-en/startup-visa-programs-en

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.

The full text is available on legal.ge after signing in: https://legal.ge/en/service/migration-and-immigration-law-en/startup-visa-programs-en

### 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.