How to Obtain a Residence Permit in Georgia as an Individual Entrepreneur
6 minute read | Last Updated 12th November 2025
Written by: Lela Gochitashvili
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Introduction
Georgia has put itself on the map as one of the most attractive destinations for foreigners looking to live, work and start a business. The country’s simplified tax system, business-friendly regulations and low cost of living make it especially appealing for freelancers, consultants and entrepreneurs.
If you are planning to settle and work in the country, one of the most straightforward ways to gain legal status is by obtaining a residence permit in Georgia as an individual entrepreneur (IE). This article explains the step-by-step process, legal requirements, and common mistakes to avoid.
What Is an Individual Entrepreneur in Georgia?
An individual entrepreneur (IE) is a self-employed person registered to conduct business under their own name. This status is popular among freelancers, digital nomads and small business owners because it allows them to legally work and receive income in Georgia while benefiting from low taxes.
Key advantages are:
- Simple and fast registration (often completed in one business day)
- Eligibility for the Micro or Small Business status with a low effective tax rate, based on business activity
- Ability to invoice clients locally or internationally
- Qualification for applying for a residence permit in Georgia on the basis of income
Types of Residence Permits in Georgia & Which One Applies to IEs
There are several types of residence permits in Georgia, including work, investment, family-reunification and special residence permits. For self-employed individuals, the most relevant is the work residence permit based on business turnover (sometimes referred to as “business residence permit”).
As an IE, your application falls under the business/entrepreneurship basis for a work residence permit in Georgia.
Requirements for Obtaining a Residence Permit as an Individual Entrepreneur
To apply for a residence permit in Georgia, you must meet the following general and specific requirements.
General prerequisites:
- At the time of application your passport must be valid.
- You must be in Georgia on a legal basis (visa-free stay or valid visa) at the time of application.
- Many sources advise applying at least 40 days before your current legal stay expires.
Specific requirements for IE basis:
- Registration as an individual entrepreneur in Georgia, with extract from the Entrepreneurs Register.
- Minimum business turnover: typically 50,000 GEL (or equivalent) in the preceding 12 consecutive months.
- Bank account / proof of funds: having a bank statement showing a balance of at least ≈ 15,000 GEL (or equivalent) is commonly cited as a supporting document.
- Tax-clearance certificate: proof of no outstanding tax debts.
- Place of residence proof in Georgia (owning or leasing a property). This is required when registering the residence card.
Passport photo, notarised translation of foreign-language documents, if required.
Step-by-Step Application Process for the Residence Permit
Step 1) Register as an Individual Entrepreneur
You can register as an Individual entrepreneur at the National Agency of Public Registry (NAPR) at the Public Service Hall. If you have a residence permit or citizenship which grants you an electronic signature, you can fill out and submit the application form on the mygov.ge site. If you do not have an electronic signature, you can submit the application at the Public Service Hall along with your personal identification document.
Once the application has been submitted with the state fee, the registration usually takes 1 business day. Once registered, you will obtain your official extract (certificate). You can now open a bank account and begin business activity to meet the turnover requirement.
Step 2) Achieve the Qualifying Business Activity
Make sure to submit monthly tax declarations once your business turnover hits the 50,000 GEL threshold (or equivalent) in the required period. Whether via invoices, contracts or bank statements, it’s required to document your business activity. If you reach the threshold earlier, you may apply sooner. Orson provides support with monthly compilation and submission of tax declarations.
Step 3) Prepare Documents for a Residence Permit in Georgia
Collect the required documents: passport, IE registration certificate, turnover statement from Revenue Service, bank statements, tax-clearance certificate, proof of legal stay, translations and notarisation as needed.
Step 4) Submit the Application
Apply in person at the regional office of the Public Service Hall (Justice House) in Tbilisi. For subsequent renewals, you can do it online and with Power of Attorney. Submit your documents and select your processing speed.
Step 5) Pay State Fee & Await Decision
The state duty depends on how quickly you want the decision:
- 30 calendar-day review: 300 GEL
- 20 calendar-day review: 450 GEL
- 10 calendar-day review: 600 GEL
Once approved, you have to register your address and apply for your residence card (“binadroba”) within 30 days.
Renewal, Validity and Path to Long-Term / Permanent Residency
Typically, your initial residence permit in Georgia will be valid for 1 year (in some cases 6-12 months). Upon maintaining your business activity and meeting renewal criteria, you can extend your residence permit. After continuous residency you may apply for permanent residency. Maintaining the qualifying business activity is key.
Common Reasons for Rejection & How to Avoid Them
Applications for a residence permit in Georgia can be refused for several reasons:
- The business turnover or proof of business activity is insufficient.
- The applicant’s stay in Georgia was not legal or long enough.
- Documents are incomplete, incorrectly translated or notarised.
- Fraudulent information or failure to comply with the change of circumstances – e.g., the business ceases to operate, the basis of the permit disappears.
- Security/public interest concerns (the government may refuse for reasons of state security).
If refused, you can appeal the decision in court (costs starting at 2,000GEL) or apply again after one month. The case examination period can range from 1.5 to 3 months.
Why This Path Makes Sense & What You Get
Choosing to obtain a residence permit in Georgia through your status as an individual entrepreneur offers concrete benefits:
- You can legally stay in Georgia without needing to perform “visa runs”.
- You are able to apply to embassies in Georgia for Schengen or other visas. Some countries require you apply from your home country if you are on a tourist stay.
- Once a resident, you may receive perks such as electronic state signature access (for remote state services), discounts for cultural services, ability to sponsor family members, etc.
You enter a path toward longer-term residence or permanent settlement in a business-friendly environment.
Conclusion
Obtaining a residence permit in Georgia as an individual entrepreneur is one of the simplest and most cost-effective legal pathways for foreigners who wish to live and work in the country. By properly registering your business, meeting the documented turnover and funds thresholds (for example 50,000 GEL turnover, ~15,000 GEL account balance), staying legally in Georgia, and fulfilling tax obligations, you can secure your stay in Georgia and enjoy the benefits of its business environment.
For personalised guidance and legal support, contact Orson, your trusted partner in Georgian business and immigration law.
