Tbilisi Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, welcomes international travelers with relatively straightforward entry requirements. Georgia has one of the most liberal visa policies in the region, offering visa-free access to citizens of over 90 countries. The immigration process at Tbilisi International Airport (Shota Rustaveli) is generally efficient and streamlined, with most travelers clearing immigration within 30-45 minutes of arrival. Visitors to Tbilisi should ensure their passport is valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay. While Georgia's entry requirements are accessible, it's essential to have proof of accommodation, sufficient funds for your stay, and a return or onward ticket. The country operates both visa-free entry and an electronic visa (e-Visa) system, making it convenient for most international travelers to visit. Whether you're arriving for tourism, business, or transit purposes, understanding the specific requirements for your nationality will ensure a smooth entry process. Immigration officials are generally professional and welcoming, though it's advisable to have all necessary documentation readily available and to be prepared to answer basic questions about your visit.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

Georgia offers visa-free entry to citizens of over 90 countries, an e-Visa system for eligible nationalities, and traditional visa applications for others. The type of authorization you need depends on your nationality and purpose of visit.

Visa-Free Entry

Up to 1 year (365 days) for most countries

Citizens of these countries can enter Georgia without a visa for tourism, business, or transit purposes

Includes

United States United Kingdom All European Union member states Canada Australia New Zealand Japan South Korea Israel United Arab Emirates Turkey Ukraine Brazil Argentina Chile Mexico Switzerland Norway Iceland

Most visa-exempt countries can stay for 365 days within any 365-day period. Some countries like Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia have 90-day visa-free access. Always verify your specific nationality's allowance. Passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.

Electronic Visa (e-Visa)

Typically 30 days (single or multiple entry options available)

Citizens of countries not eligible for visa-free entry but eligible for e-Visa can apply online

Includes

India China Egypt Indonesia Thailand Philippines Vietnam Jamaica South Africa Morocco Tunisia Many other countries - check official e-Visa portal

How to Apply: Apply online at www.evisa.gov.ge at least 5 business days before travel. Processing typically takes 5 business days but can be expedited. Upload required documents including passport copy, photo, and proof of accommodation. Receive e-Visa via email.
Cost: Approximately $20-50 USD depending on visa type and processing time

E-Visa must be printed and presented upon arrival. Ensure all information matches your passport exactly. Multiple entry e-Visas are available for eligible nationalities.

Visa Required

Varies by visa type, typically 30-90 days

Some nationalities must apply for a traditional visa at a Georgian embassy or consulate

How to Apply: Contact the nearest Georgian embassy or consulate to submit application in person or by mail. Required documents typically include completed application form, passport photos, valid passport, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, and financial means. Processing time varies but generally 10-15 business days.

If your country has no Georgian diplomatic mission, you may apply at the nearest embassy or through the e-Visa system if eligible. Check with Georgian authorities for specific requirements.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at Tbilisi International Airport or any Georgian border crossing, you'll proceed through immigration and customs control. The process is straightforward, but having all documents prepared will expedite your entry.

Arrival and Disembarkation

After landing, follow signs to passport control/immigration. Fill out any arrival cards if required (though Georgia has largely eliminated paper forms).

Immigration Control

Present your passport, visa (if applicable), and any supporting documents. Officers may ask about your purpose of visit and accommodation. Your passport will be stamped with entry date.

Baggage Claim

Collect your checked luggage from the designated carousel. Report any missing or damaged baggage immediately to airline representatives.

Customs Declaration

Proceed through customs control. Choose the green channel (nothing to declare) or red channel (goods to declare). Officers may conduct random checks.

Exit to Arrivals Hall

After clearing customs, you'll enter the public arrivals area where you can access taxis, buses, and other transportation into Tbilisi city center.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least the duration of your stay (6 months validity recommended). Should have at least one blank page for entry stamp.

Visa or e-Visa (if applicable)

Printed copy of e-Visa or visa sticker in passport. Not required for visa-exempt nationalities.

Proof of Accommodation

Hotel reservation, Airbnb booking, or invitation letter from host. May be requested by immigration officers.

Return/Onward Ticket

Proof of departure from Georgia. Can be flight, bus, or train ticket. Sometimes requested to demonstrate intent to leave.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Bank statements, credit cards, or cash to demonstrate ability to support yourself during stay. Rarely requested but advisable to have available.

Travel Insurance

While not mandatory for most nationalities, comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended and may be required for certain visa types.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Have all documents organized and easily accessible before reaching immigration counter

Be polite and answer questions clearly and honestly. Immigration officers appreciate straightforward responses

Keep hotel confirmation and return flight details on your phone or printed for quick reference

Exchange some currency before leaving the airport or use ATMs in the arrivals hall for Georgian Lari (GEL)

Download offline maps of Tbilisi before arrival in case of limited internet connectivity

Take a photo of your passport information page and entry stamp in case of loss

If traveling for business, have invitation letters or conference documentation ready

Arrive at immigration with patience during peak hours (early morning and evening flights from Europe and Middle East)

Customs & Duty-Free

Georgia's customs regulations are designed to prevent illegal importation while allowing reasonable personal items. Understanding duty-free allowances and prohibited items will help you avoid delays and potential fines.

Alcohol

4 liters of alcoholic beverages (including up to 2 liters of spirits)

Must be 18 years or older. Amounts exceeding this limit are subject to duty. Commercial quantities require special permits.

Tobacco

400 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco products

Must be 18 years or older. Excess quantities subject to customs duty. E-cigarettes and vaping products allowed for personal use.

Currency

Amounts over 30,000 GEL (approximately $11,000 USD) or equivalent must be declared

Both local and foreign currency combined. Declaration form required at customs. No limit on amount you can bring, but must declare excess.

Gifts/Goods

Personal items and gifts up to 3,000 GEL (approximately $1,100 USD) in value

Items clearly for personal use during stay are generally exempt. New items in original packaging may be questioned. Keep receipts for valuable items.

Perfume

Reasonable quantity for personal use (typically up to 250ml)

Commercial quantities require declaration and may incur duty.

Electronics

Personal electronics (laptop, camera, phone) for personal use

Multiple items of same type may be questioned. Professional equipment may require temporary import documentation.

Prohibited Items

Narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances - strictly prohibited with severe penalties
Weapons and ammunition - without proper permits and licenses
Explosives and fireworks - except with special authorization
Counterfeit currency and goods - including fake designer items
Pornographic materials - particularly those involving minors
Materials promoting violence, terrorism, or extremism
Endangered species products - including ivory, certain furs, and protected plants (CITES regulations apply)
Meat and dairy products from certain countries - due to disease prevention (check current restrictions)
Soil and unprocessed plant materials - agricultural restrictions apply

Restricted Items

Prescription medications - must be accompanied by prescription and in original packaging; quantities should be reasonable for personal use during stay
Drones and UAVs - require special permits from Civil Aviation Authority; recreational use restricted near airports and government buildings
Professional camera/video equipment - may require temporary import permit for commercial use
Cultural artifacts and antiques - export of Georgian cultural property strictly regulated; obtain certificates if purchasing to take home
Pets and animals - require veterinary certificates, vaccination records, and microchip; see special situations for details
Satellite phones and certain radio equipment - may require registration or permits
Large amounts of cash - over 30,000 GEL must be declared but is permitted
Firearms for hunting/sport - require advance permits from Ministry of Internal Affairs

Health Requirements

Georgia has minimal mandatory health requirements for most travelers, but recommended precautions can help ensure a healthy visit.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - only if arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic country (certificate required)

Recommended Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations - ensure up-to-date on MMR, DPT, chickenpox, polio, and yearly flu shot
Hepatitis A - recommended for all travelers due to potential food/water exposure
Hepatitis B - recommended for those who may have intimate contact with locals or need medical procedures
Typhoid - particularly if visiting smaller cities or rural areas
Rabies - consider if planning extensive outdoor activities or working with animals
COVID-19 - stay current with recommended doses per your country's guidelines

Health Insurance

Travel health insurance is strongly recommended but not mandatory for most visa-exempt travelers. Some e-Visa categories may require proof of insurance. Ensure your policy covers medical evacuation and treatment abroad. Georgia has both public and private healthcare facilities, with private clinics in Tbilisi offering good quality care but requiring payment upfront. EU citizens should note that EHIC cards are not valid in Georgia.

Current Health Requirements: COVID-19 and other health entry requirements can change rapidly. Check the Georgian government's official website (www.gov.ge) and your country's travel advisory for current health protocols before departure. As of late 2024, most COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted, but this may change. Consider checking requirements 72 hours before travel for any updates.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Find your country's embassy or consulate in Tbilisi for citizen services

Register with your embassy if planning extended stay. Check your government's travel advisory website before departure for Georgia-specific warnings and updates.

Immigration Authority - Public Service Hall

Ministry of Internal Affairs, Public Service Hall for visa extensions and registration: www.psh.gov.ge

For visa extensions, registration for stays over 90 days, or immigration questions. Multiple locations in Tbilisi with English-speaking staff.

e-Visa Portal

Official e-Visa application website: www.evisa.gov.ge

For electronic visa applications and status checks. Support available via email for technical issues.

Emergency Services

Dial 112 for all emergencies (police, ambulance, fire)

English-speaking operators available. Works from any phone including mobile without SIM card. Save this number in your phone upon arrival.

Tourist Information

Georgian National Tourism Administration: www.gnta.ge

Tourist information centers located at airport and throughout Tbilisi. Staff speak English and can assist with general questions.

Customs Information

Revenue Service of Georgia: www.rs.ge

For customs regulations, duty calculations, and prohibited items information. Contact before traveling with unusual items.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children must have their own passport (included on parent's passport not accepted for most nationalities). Minors (under 18) traveling without both parents should carry a notarized letter of consent from absent parent(s) in English or Georgian, authorizing travel. This is particularly important for children traveling with one parent, grandparents, or other adults. Divorced parents should carry custody documents. Birth certificates may be requested to prove relationship. Same visa rules apply to children as adults based on nationality.

Traveling with Pets

Pets (dogs and cats) require: valid rabies vaccination (administered at least 30 days before travel but not more than 12 months prior), microchip for identification (ISO 11784/11785 compliant), veterinary health certificate issued within 5 days of travel by licensed vet, and import permit from National Food Agency of Georgia (apply online in advance). Pets from high-risk rabies countries may require additional documentation. Airlines have separate requirements for pet travel. Consider quarantine possibilities and contact National Food Agency (www.nfa.gov.ge) well in advance.

Extended Stays

Visa-exempt travelers wishing to stay beyond their allowed period must either exit and re-enter (visa runs) or apply for a residence permit. For stays over 90 days (or 365 days for eligible nationalities), registration with the Public Service Hall is required. Residence permits available for work, study, family reunification, or investment. Application process requires proof of accommodation, financial means, and purpose of stay. Overstaying without authorization results in fines and potential entry bans. Start residence permit process well before visa-free period expires.

Business Travelers

Business visitors on visa-free or e-Visa entry can attend meetings, conferences, and negotiations but cannot engage in paid employment. Bring invitation letters from Georgian companies, conference registration, or business cards. For work requiring payment, a work permit and residence permit are mandatory. Freelancers and digital nomads technically require work authorization if earning income while in Georgia, though enforcement is evolving. Consider 'Remotely from Georgia' program for digital nomads seeking legal status.

Students

Students admitted to Georgian educational institutions need acceptance letter from accredited institution. Apply for student residence permit through Public Service Hall before or immediately upon arrival. Student visa allows part-time work with restrictions. Proof of financial means to support studies required. Some nationalities can enter visa-free then convert to student status; others need student visa before arrival.

Visiting Occupied Territories

Entry to Abkhazia and South Ossetia (occupied territories) from any direction other than Georgian-controlled territory is illegal under Georgian law and may result in prosecution and entry ban. Do not enter these regions from Russia. If planning to visit these areas, consult legal advice and understand the risks. This includes transit through these regions.

Dual Nationals

Travelers with dual nationality including Georgian citizenship must enter and exit Georgia using their Georgian passport. Using a foreign passport when you hold Georgian citizenship may cause complications. If you have Georgian heritage, verify whether you automatically hold Georgian citizenship before travel.

Transit Passengers

Transit passengers remaining airside and continuing within 24 hours generally do not need a visa. However, if leaving the airport or overnight transit, normal visa requirements apply based on nationality. Ensure you meet requirements for both Georgia and your final destination. Some airlines require transit visas even for airside connections - check with your carrier.