What is a freelance work residence permit?
A Georgian work residence permit is also issued to foreign individuals who carry out freelance business activities in Georgia. It is typically granted to those who wish to stay in the country for more than 6 months.
Who is eligible for a freelance work residence permit?
Foreign expats who are self-employed and have an annual turnover (within 12 months) exceeding GEL 50,000 are eligible, annual turnover must be verified by documents issued by the Revenue Service of Georgia or by the bank statement or other official document from revenue service if the person is not a VAT payer.
Expats must be financially self-sufficient during their stay in Georgia, with wages of at least five times the Georgian subsistence income per month. Additionally, applicants must submit all necessary documentation. (Please see the full list of required documents here.)
Duration of freelance residence permit
For the first time, it is issued for a period ranging from 6 months to 1 year. After that, the nomad becomes eligible to apply for extensions of 2 years, 3 years, and beyond.
How Relocate Now can help
At Relocate Now, we offer personalized support for Freelancers seeking residency in Georgia. Our services include:
Initial call: we begin with a comprehensive call to understand your current situation and residence motivations to assess your eligibility for a specific permit and the required steps
Documentation Preparation: Our team prepares and reviews all required documents to ensure they meet the specific requirements for your residence permit
Appointment Assistance: We provide in-person support during your residency application submission
Ongoing Support: We provide continuous guidance throughout the application process until you receive your residence permit card
Additional services
Renewals: We guide you through renewing your residency permit when required.
Updates: Assistance with changes to your residency details or status.
Re-issuance: Support in obtaining a replacement if your permit is lost or damaged
What’s not included
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Public Registry Fees - The legal registration as a Freelancer (Individual Entrepreneur) - application processing
1 Business day GEl 26,
in the same day GEl 75
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Agency fees - Application for obtaining Residence Permit
30th calendar day GEL 300
20th calendar day GEL 450
10th calendar day GEL 600
Official translations of documents
Hague Apostille
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Litigation representation, legal action, or assistance with immigration processes
What is the estimated time to complete?
The application processing time from the SDA varies depending on the service fee you pay. The time required for document preparation depends on the expat’s specific situation and is determined after due diligence.
Generally, the process takes around 2-3 months, depending on the expat’s fulfillment of the GEL 50,000 turnover requirement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I enter Georgia with my ID card?
Answer - If you're from a visa-waiver country, you can. However, in any case, make sure to carry your valid passport, travel insurance, and relevant documents (depending on your travel purpose), such as hotel reservations, etc.
I am a citizen of a visa country but I have a temporary residence permit in a visa waiver country, do I still need a visa before applying for a residence permit in Georgia?
Answer - Yes, you do. If you are not a citizen of a country that has a visa free regime with Georgia, you shall obtain a D visa before applying for a residence permit. If you enter Georgia with a valid passport and a residency card from a visa-waiver country, you can stay in Georgia for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
I am from a visa free country, and I can stay for a full year. Is there any specific timeframe when I must cross the border before the time expires?
Answer - You should cross the border before the expiration of your allowed stay. There is no specific number of days defined.
My turnover exceeds GEL 50,000 in 2 months. Will I qualify for residency?
Answer - Yes. The general requirement is to have a turnover of GEL 50,000 within a 12-month period. If your turnover exceeds this amount within 2- months, you will still qualify for residency.
What do I need to get a residency card?
Answer - After your application is approved by the agency, you receive the text message or/and can track the application online, you can visit the service agency and submit an application to receive your card. Additionally, you will need to provide a written consent from the property owner to define your registered address with the agency.
I got a freelance work residence permit. Can I hire under employment contract foreign nomads to work with me?
Answer - Yes, you can. However, in that case, you, as a freelancer, must meet the GEL 50,000 turnover requirement, and you shall satisfy that requirement per each foreign nomad you employ. Also, you are required to register them in the electronic portal of the Ministry of Labor, Health, and Social Protection of Georgia.