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Humanitarian Operations Advisory

How can an NGO import goods tax-free into Georgia?

To import goods tax-free, they must be officially recognized as humanitarian aid by the Revenue Service before customs clearance. This requires submitting specific documentation proving the charitable nature of the cargo.

Do international volunteers need work visas?

Depending on citizenship and duration of stay, volunteers may need an immigration visa (D category) or residence permit. Short-term missions might be possible under the visa-free regime for certain countries.

What laws apply to operating in occupied territories?

The Law on Occupied Territories strictly regulates entry and economic activities in Abkhazia and South Ossetia. Unauthorized entry is a criminal offense. Special permits are mandatory.

Can an NGO distribute cash aid legally?

Yes, but it must be carefully structured to avoid income tax liabilities for the recipients. It is often done through bank transfers with proper identification and reporting to tax authorities.

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Humanitarian Operations Advisory is a complex legal service aimed at assisting non-governmental and charitable organizations operating in crisis, post-conflict, or natural disaster zones. Humanitarian missions often require not only goodwill and resources but also strict legal regulation so that the movement of cargo, personnel safety, and aid distribution are carried out smoothly and within the legal framework. In Georgia, as well as internationally, humanitarian operations are subject to special regulations covering customs, tax, migration, and administrative aspects. An incorrectly planned operation can lead to cargo confiscation, fining of the organization, or suspension of its activities. The lawyer's role in this process is to minimize risks and ensure a "green corridor" legally in critical situations.

What does Humanitarian Operations legal service cover?

Legal.ge specialists offer full legal support at all stages of humanitarian project implementation:

  • Logistics Law and Customs Procedures: Assigning humanitarian status to cargo, managing customs duty exemption procedures, and preparing import documentation.
  • Permits and Access: Obtaining special permits required for entry into conflict or protected territories from the State Security Service and the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
  • Legalization of International Personnel: Processing visas, residence permits, and accreditation for foreign volunteers and experts.
  • Contract Management: Signing agreements with local suppliers, transport companies, and warehouses; correct formulation of force majeure clauses.
  • Compliance with International Law: Aligning activities with International Humanitarian Law norms and requirements of donor organizations (UN, EU, USAID).
  • Safety Protocols: Legal regulation of personnel safety, analysis of insurance packages, and legal support for evacuation plans.

Real-world scenarios and legal needs

Humanitarian organizations often face the following legal challenges:

  • Import of Medicines: An organization wants to import specific medicines into a disaster zone. Permission from the Ministry of Health and passing a special regime are required so that the cargo does not get stuck at customs.
  • Setting up a Refugee Camp: It is necessary to obtain a land plot for temporary use from the state or a private owner, which requires a legally sound contract and adherence to sanitary norms.
  • Cash Assistance Distribution: Distributing cash or vouchers to beneficiaries creates a risk of tax liabilities. A lawyer helps structure the scheme so that the aid is not taxed with income tax.
  • Incidents during Operations: Vehicle damage or personnel injury during a mission, requiring an insurance claim and legal dispute.

Georgian Legislation and Humanitarian Activities

The field is regulated by the Tax Code of Georgia (part on taxation of humanitarian cargo), the Law on Occupied Territories (rules of activity in conflict zones), and the Law on Civil Safety. The rule for granting humanitarian status is determined by the order of the Minister of Finance, which requires detailed documentation on the origin and destination of the cargo. The Law of Georgia on Grants is also important, regulating the receipt and expenditure of donor funding. Internationally, activities must comply with the Geneva Conventions and the principles of the Humanitarian Charter.

Service Process

  1. Operation Planning: Defining the legal framework of the mission and assessing risks together with a lawyer.
  2. Documentation Preparation: Preparing grant agreements, cargo lists, and permit requests.
  3. Liaison with State Bodies: Negotiations with the Revenue Service, ministries, and local municipalities.
  4. Monitoring and Reporting: Legal supervision of the operation's progress and preparation of final reports.

Why Legal.ge?

Humanitarian operations cannot afford delays. Legal.ge gives you access to lawyers who have experience working in crisis situations and know how to overcome bureaucratic barriers quickly and effectively. Our platform specialists will help ensure that your aid reaches the recipient on time, while the organization remains protected from legal problems.

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