Введение
The landscape for foreign professionals and entrepreneurs in Georgia is changing. On February 20, 2026, the Georgian government issued Resolution №70, introducing a rigorous new framework for obtaining a work permit in Georgia for foreigners. Whether you are a “Labor Immigrant” looking to join a local company or a “Self-Employed Foreigner” running your own business, these rules—effective March 1, 2026—will impact how you live and work in the country.
In this post, we break down the essential procedures, costs, and criteria you need to know to stay compliant with the Ministry of Internally Displaced Persons from the Occupied Territories, Labour, Health, and Social Affairs of Georgia.
Who is Affected?
The new rules apply to foreigners without a permanent residence permit who intend to:
- Work for a local employer (on-site or remotely).
- Engage in entrepreneurial or labor activities for financial gain (partners, independent contractors, or service providers).
Exemptions
Certain groups are exempt from these specific requirements, including:
- Recognized refugees or those with temporary/additional protection.
- Registered asylum seekers.
- Diplomats and staff of international organizations.
- Accredited foreign journalists.
- Holders of a valid Investment Residence Permit.
The Two Paths to Working Legally
The State Employment Support Agency (the “Agency”) now distinguishes between two types of applicants:
Labor Immigrants (Employees)
If you are being hired by a Georgian company, the employer must initiate the process.
- The Market Test: Before hiring a foreigner, the employer must post the vacancy on www.worknet.moh.gov.ge for at least 10 working days.
- Agency Intervention: If the Agency cannot find a suitable local candidate within those 10 days, the employer can then apply for your work permit.
- Specifics: The right is granted for a specific position at a specific company. If you change jobs, you must obtain a new permit.
2. Self-Employed Foreigners
Foreigners working for themselves must apply directly to the Agency.
- The Interview: After submitting documentation, a video interview with the Agency is mandatory to confirm the application.
- Business Evidence: Applicants must provide a business plan or proof of annual turnover if the business is already established.
Costs and Processing Times
The service fees are tiered based on how quickly you need the work permit in Georgia for foreigners:
| Service Type | Processing Time | Fee |
| Standard Application | 30 Calendar Days | 200 GEL |
| Accelerated Application | 10 Working Days | 400 GEL |
| Permit Extension | 30 Calendar Days | 200 GEL |
Note: Employers pay for labor immigrants, while self-employed individuals pay for themselves. All payments are handled via the www.labourmigration.moh.gov.ge portal.
Key Deadlines and Validity
Once you receive your Right to Work, the clock starts ticking:
- If outside Georgia: You must apply for a D1 Category Immigration Visa within 30 days.
- If inside Georgia: You must apply for a Labor Residence Permit within 10 days.
How long does it last?
- Initial Permit: Generally valid for 6 months to 1 year.
- Renewals: Can be extended annually for the first 5 years. After 5 years of continuous work, extensions can be granted for 1 to 5 years.
- IT Sector: Professionals in Information Technology enjoy longer initial permits of up to 3 years.
2026 Annual Quotas: Restricted Professions
The government has established “Zero Quotas” (meaning permits are currently not being issued) for certain sectors to protect the local labor market:
- Courier Services: 0 Quota.
- Passenger Transportation: 0 Quota.
- Tourist Guides: 0 Quota.
- Mountain/Ski Guides: Restricted to a quota of 200 per year.
High-Earner Exception: Quotas and market tests generally do not apply if the monthly salary exceeds 15,000 GEL (gross) and requires higher education.
Important Transition Dates
- Existing Self-Employed: If you were already working/operating a business before March 1, 2026, the enforcement mechanisms will apply to you starting May 1, 2026.
- Currently Registered Immigrants: Those with an “active” status on the migration portal as of March 1, 2026, have until January 1, 2027, to obtain the formal Right to Work and residency.
Legal Assistance for Work Permit in Georgia for foreigners and Migration Compliance
Our firm provides:
- Work permit in Georgia for foreigners application support
- Residence permit structuring
- Employer compliance audits
- Strategic immigration planning
Контакт us today for specialized legal support to ensure your migration, employment, or business activities in Georgia remain fully compliant from March 1, 2026 onwards.
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