Starting March 1, a foreign national without a permanent residence permit in Georgia will no longer be allowed to work as a courier, taxi driver, or tour guide under a February 20 decree issued by Georgian Dream Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze.

While the decree formally introduces a “work permit” to be issued by a government body, the three listed occupations are subject to a zero quota, effectively barring foreigners from working in those roles.

The changes come amid a broader crackdown on migration. Georgian Dream says about 20,000 illegal migrants currently reside in Georgia and has pledged to expel approximately 4,000 this year as part of what it describes as an “uncompromising” battle against illegal migration.

Beyond the restrictions on certain roles, the new regulations establish a broader work permit system for foreign nationals. In particular, employers seeking to hire migrant workers must post the vacancy on the state employment portal (worknet.moh.gov.ge) at least 10 working days in advance.

They may proceed with hiring a foreign worker only if the State Employment Support Agency, the government body responsible for issuing work permits, fails to identify a “relevant candidate,” a measure that appears to prioritize local workers.

If a local employer rejects a candidate proposed by the agency, they must notify the agency electronically within three working days and provide the reasons for refusal. The agency then reviews the explanation within three working days and decides whether the work authorization process should continue or be halted, informing the employer of its decision electronically.

Self-employed foreigners must apply to the agency themselves and undergo a video interview.

Certain employers and positions are exempt from the 10-day vacancy posting, including international companies, innovative startups, accredited international education experts, and high-salary roles above GEL 15,000 (about USD 5,600) requiring higher education.

An application fee is required to process the work permits. The standard 30-day review costs GEL 200 (around USD 70), while a 10-day expedited review costs GEL 400 (around USD 140). Employers must pay the fee, while self-employed foreign nationals must cover the cost themselves.

Work authorization is generally issued for six months to one year. It may be extended annually during the first five years and subsequently for periods ranging from one to five years. Those employed in the IT sector may receive a three-year permit initially, with possible three-year extensions.

The work permit only becomes effective once a foreigner obtains a D1 visa or a relevant residence permit. Foreigners abroad must apply within 30 days of acquiring a work permit, while those already in Georgia have 10 days to submit their application. Failure to comply automatically terminates the work permit.

The work permit can be revoked automatically if a foreigner works outside the approved position, leaves Georgia for over six months, faces deportation, has an expired permit, or loses their labor contract.

The decree provides a transitional period for foreigners already working in Georgia, in whose case the rules will be enforced starting May 1, 2026. Immigrants who are already registered with the common database run by the Health Ministry must obtain a work permit and the relevant residence permit by January 1, 2027.

The State Employment Support Agency oversees compliance with the new rules, referring violations to the Labor Inspection Service and the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Breaches can trigger administrative liability against both employers and foreigners.

The rules do not affect individuals with refugee or humanitarian status, asylum seekers, diplomats and employees of international organizations, accredited foreign journalists, or those who have obtained residence permits through investment. (Civil Georgia)