Government Contracts

How to get security clearance for state secrets?

To get clearance, a company must undergo a special vetting process by the State Security Service, which includes examining both infrastructure and employee reliability.

Where are closed tenders published?

They are not published publicly. Information is sent only to companies that have already passed relevant checks and earned trust.

What is the penalty for information leakage?

Negligent or intentional disclosure of state secrets is a criminal offense punishable by imprisonment and leads to immediate contract cancellation.

Can foreign companies participate?

Yes, but the procedure is more complex and requires security guarantees recognized by international agreements.

Reading Time

3 min

Published

...

Classified and special government contracts represent a unique category of public procurement related to state secrets, strategic infrastructure, and high-tech security. Such contracts are not published in the public domain and are not subject to standard electronic tender rules. They are executed through simplified procedures or closed competitions involving only trusted and vetted companies. Operating in this segment requires not only high qualifications from the company but also special Security Clearance. Legal.ge offers exclusive legal services for companies operating or wishing to enter the market of closed government contracts, ensuring full compliance with legislation on state secrets.

What does this service cover?

Our service focuses on managing specific, closed-type contracts:

  • Security Clearance Acquisition: Legal support for the company and its personnel to obtain access to state secrets (organizing security regime, personnel vetting).
  • Classified Contract Audit: Analyzing terms of "Secret" contracts and assessing risks (penalties for confidentiality breaches).
  • Special Permits: Obtaining permits to work on strategic sites (e.g., military bases, government communications).
  • Export-Import Control: Legal assurance for transporting dual-use cargo within the framework of secret contracts.
  • Negotiations with Security Services: Communicating with the State Security Service and Ministry of Defense regarding contract security conditions.
  • Intellectual Property: Protecting rights to technologies and know-how developed under a secret regime.

Common Scenarios and Needs

The service is designed for high-tech and strategic providers:

  • Cybersecurity Companies: Protecting government networks and databases.
  • Specialized Builders: Companies constructing bunkers, depots, or border infrastructure.
  • IT Developers: Creating special software for law enforcement agencies.
  • R&D Centers: Working on the development of defense technologies.

Georgian Legal Framework

This type of contract is regulated by the Law of Georgia on State Secrets, special articles of the Law on State Procurement (procurements related to state secrets), and Government Resolutions on the protection of the secret regime. Contractor liability for information leakage is regulated by the Criminal Code.

Step-by-Step Process

The process begins with a security audit of the company. The lawyer helps implement internal secret record-keeping. Then, an application is made to the relevant agency for clearance. Once cleared, the company is invited to a closed tender. Contract execution proceeds under strict control, and upon completion, documentation is archived or destroyed according to rules.

Why Legal.ge?

Working with classified contracts is an elite segment where errors are unacceptable. Legal.ge connects you with lawyers experienced in working with state secret holders who know how to protect your business from legal and reputational risks in this sensitive field.

Updated: ...

Specialists for this service

Loading...