Factsheet: Georgia
Georgia is a small Caucasus nation of 3.7 million people, nestled between Russia, Turkey, Armenia and Azerbaijan. An EU candidate since 2022, it is not yet part of the European Union, but it attracts a growing number of European expats thanks to a unique combination: 365 days visa-free, territorial taxation at 0% on foreign income, ultra-low cost of living and an expat scene in Tbilisi that is booming. For digital nomads and entrepreneurs looking to maximize their financial freedom without EU constraints, Georgia is hard to ignore.
Why choose Georgia?
Georgia brings together advantages rarely found elsewhere: a full year of visa-free stay, territorial taxation that fully exempts foreign-sourced income, a cost of living among the lowest in Europe and the Caucasus, and a surprising entrepreneurial dynamic for a country of its size. Tbilisi attracts a growing international community that makes it one of the most exciting cities to settle in right now.
Stay up to 365 consecutive days without a visa, without any prior formalities. One of the most generous arrangements in the world for EU passport holders.
Monthly budget of 1,200 to 1,800 EUR for comfortable living in Tbilisi. About 60 to 65% cheaper than Paris, with rapidly improving service levels.
0% tax on foreign-sourced income for residents. 0% corporate tax on reinvested profits for a Georgian LLC. One of the most favorable regimes in the world.
Georgian LLC created at the House of Justice for 50 to 200 EUR, no minimum capital, basic accounting. One of the fastest and simplest entrepreneurial environments in the world.
Caucasus mountains, Black Sea, UNESCO-listed Tbilisi Old Town, Borjomi thermal springs. A country of rare natural and cultural richness for its size.
Khinkali, khachapuri, natural wines in clay amphorae (Georgia = birthplace of wine, 8,000 years of history). A culture of hospitality and sharing that greatly facilitates integration.
Visa & Residence
Georgia offers one of the most liberal welcome policies in the world for EU passport holders. The basic principle is simple: no visa required for stays up to 365 consecutive days. For those wishing to settle long-term or work legally, several complementary programs exist.
365 days visa-free for EU citizens
EU nationals can stay in Georgia for up to 365 consecutive days without a visa, without prior formalities, without proof of income. A valid passport is all you need. This is one of the most generous arrangements in the world, as the vast majority of countries limit visa-free stays to 90 days.
Remotely from Georgia program
This one-year renewable nomad visa allows you to work legally in Georgia for foreign clients or employers. Requirements: proof of income of at least 2,000 USD/month (bank statements or contracts), valid health insurance. Cost: approximately 120 USD. This visa provides clear legal status for carrying out remote work from Georgian territory.
Temporary residence permit
For stays exceeding one year or those wishing to anchor their life more firmly in Georgia. Obtained through the Georgian Civil Registry Agency. It can be based on local business activity (LLC), investment, or marriage to a Georgian national.
Cost of living
Georgia remains one of the most affordable destinations for Western expats. The gap with Paris is dramatic: 60 to 65% cheaper overall. A freelancer earning 3,000 EUR/month in Western Europe lives like royalty here while paying 0% tax on their foreign income. Tbilisi has seen rent increases since 2022 (influx of Russian and Ukrainian relocators), but remains very accessible compared to any European capital.
Estimated monthly budget: 1,100 - 1,800 EUR/month (comfortable in Tbilisi)
📊 Taxation
Georgia's tax system applies a territorial principle for individuals: if you reside in Georgia but earn income from foreign sources (foreign clients, dividends from a company outside Georgia, foreign rental income), this income is taxed at 0% in Georgia. This is one of the most favorable regimes in the world for digital nomads and international freelancers. For Georgian companies, the model is inspired by Estonia: 0% corporate tax on reinvested profits.
🚀 For entrepreneurs
Georgia has positioned itself as one of the most competitive destinations in the world for creating and operating a lightweight entrepreneurial structure. Between one-day company creation, the Virtual Zone regime for IT, the 1% sole trader status and easily accessible local banking, it attracts freelancers and startup founders seeking to minimize their tax burden without excessive administrative complexity.
❤️ Healthcare
Georgia's public healthcare system remains limited and underfunded. For routine care, Georgian private clinics (Aversi Clinic, Ioli Clinic, MediClub Georgia) offer decent quality at very affordable prices (consultation: 15 to 40 EUR). For major surgeries or specialized procedures, Istanbul (2-hour flight) is recommended. Medications are very accessible and inexpensive at Georgian pharmacies.
Where to live
Georgia is a small country but offers very varied atmospheres across its cities. Tbilisi concentrates the vast majority of expat life, but Batumi attracts sea lovers, and secondary cities like Kutaisi or Borjomi appeal to those wanting an ultra-quiet and cheap life in the heart of Caucasian nature.
Drawbacks to know
Russia has occupied 20% of Georgian territory (South Ossetia + Abkhazia) since 2008. Permanent tensions, pro-EU demonstrations in 2024. The situation remains fragile, even though daily life in Tbilisi is safe.
Risk of double taxation if you retain ties in France. Tax planning is more complex than with a country like Estonia or Portugal that have bilateral treaties.
The Georgian alphabet is unique and resembles no other writing system. Few Westerners speak Georgian. English is sufficient in Tbilisi's expat scene, but deep integration remains difficult.
Foreign cards declined in some shops and local markets. Wise transfers sometimes blocked or delayed. Cash payments remain essential for daily life.
Administration entirely in Georgian, few content or services in Western languages. The Western expat community exists but remains limited. Building a local professional network requires real effort.
Despite the 2022 candidacy, European labor law, free movement of goods and EU protections do not apply. Uncertainty about the accession timeline.
Frequently asked questions
Can you really stay 1 year in Georgia without a visa?
Is Georgia safe to live in?
How do I open a Georgian LLC from abroad?
What about the situation with Russia?
How would my taxation work without a tax treaty?
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