Starting from 1 September 2025, Georgia introduced a new IT Residence Permit, creating a dedicated immigration pathway for professionals working in the information technology sector. The permit was established through amendments to the Georgian immigration legislation and implemented under Government Ordinance No. 520.
New in 2026: a separate right to work
Since 1 March 2026, foreign nationals who work or run a business in Georgia need the right to engage in labor activity in addition to a visa or residence permit. Read: Do you need a work permit to freelance or run a business in Georgia?
If you're looking for a complete overview of all Georgian residence permits, we also provide a comprehensive guide covering every permit type, application procedures, renewal rules, required documentation, and legal requirements. This article focuses specifically on the IT Residence Permit.
Who Can Apply?
Before applying for an IT Residence Permit, applicants must first obtain a Special Labour Permit (also referred to as the Right to Work) under Georgia's updated labour migration regulations.
The permit is intended for professionals working in occupations classified under:
- ISCO-08 Code 25 and all related subcategories;
- NACE Codes: 58.21, 58.29, 62.01, 62.02, 62.03, 62.09, 63.10 and 63.12.
Applicants must also satisfy both of the following conditions:
- Demonstrate at least two years of professional experience in the IT sector;
- Prove they earned at least USD 25,000 from IT-related activities during the previous 12 months.
Application Procedure
The application process follows a strict legal timeline. Once the Right to Work has been issued, follow these steps:
Labour Permit
Obtain your Special Labour Permit first.
Submit Within 10 Days
Apply at the PSH within 10 days of receiving your work permit.
Stay Legal
Apply at least one day before your current legal stay expires.
Get Card
Collect your physical card from the Public Service Hall.
Step 1 - Submit Your Application
Applications are filed at the Public Service Hall (PSH). The government fee depends on your selected processing time:
| Processing Time | Government Fee |
|---|---|
| 90 calendar days | 500 GEL |
| 60 calendar days | 750 GEL |
Step 2 - Obtain Your Residence Card
Once approved, you must request your residence card within one month. If the card is not requested within six months, your permit may be cancelled.
Available card processing options are:
| Processing Time | Fee |
|---|---|
| 10 business days | 60 GEL |
| 5 business days | 80 GEL |
| 3 business days | 100 GEL |
| 2 business days | 120 GEL |
| Same day | 150 GEL |
Required Documents
Your application must contain complete, legally compliant documentation. Below is your ultimate application checklist:
Valid Passport
Must be active, containing your latest entry stamp or valid Georgian visa.
Passport Photo
A recent photo, which can also be taken on-site directly at the PSH.
Company Extract
Official extract for your employer or registered business from the local registry.
Proof of Income
Evidence of USD 25,000 earned in the last 12 months, received via at least two separate payments 30+ days apart. *ICS Directors exempt.*
Professional Experience
Minimum of 2 years IT experience shown via apostilled/notarized agreements. *ICS Directors exempt.*
Small Business Certificate
Required for applicants registered locally under the Small Business Status (SBS) regime.
Can Family Members Apply?
Yes. Family members of an IT Residence Permit holder may also qualify for residency. You must provide officially recognized civil status documents, such as a marriage or birth certificate.
Validity and Renewal
The IT Residence Permit is issued for three years. Renewing your permit requires submitting a new application and meeting the exact same eligibility criteria. Each successful renewal grants another three-year period.
Stay Requirement Reminder: You must spend at least 183 days in Georgia during any rolling 12-month period to maintain your IT residence status. This requirement aligns your permit with Georgian tax residency rules.
IT Residence Permit vs. Work Residence Permit
The IT Residence Permit offers significant advantages over the standard Work Residence Permit. You do not need to show local business turnover or corporate history, and your first permit is issued for 3 full years instead of just 6 to 12 months.
| Feature | IT Residence Permit | Work Residence Permit |
|---|---|---|
| Main eligibility | 2 years IT experience + USD 25,000 annual income | 50,000 GEL annual turnover + 17,000 GEL personal savings |
| Initial validity | 3 years | 6–12 months |
| Renewal validity | 3 years | 6 months to 11.5 years |
| Special Labour Permit | 3 years | 6–12 months |
| Minimum stay | 183 days in any rolling 12 months | No minimum stay |
| Processing time | 61–104 days | 11–34 days |
| Government fees | 560–900 GEL | 360–750 GEL |
