Georgia’s New Remote Work Visa for Digital Nomads

Lockdowns and border closures amid the coronavirus crisis have prompted a rethinking of how we work and travel. The nation of aims to capitalize on this new normal by welcoming foreign citizens to work remotely from the country.

Pre-pandemic, Georgia was fast becoming a popular digital nomad hotspot and a rising tourist destination. Moreover, Georgia’s swift response to the coronavirus crisis has led to a reported 1000 infections. The Georgian government is now looking to attract freelancers and self-employed individuals to live and work in the country, stimulating its economy while gradually and safely reopening borders. Georgia’s economy minister, Natia Turnava, recently announced a new visa policy allowing foreigners to work remotely from Georgia.

Turnava indicated, “We’re inviting this targeted audience to Georgia and offering them the opportunity to live in our country. Georgia has an image of a safe destination in terms of health safety, and we want to leverage this chance. We’re discussing border reopening in a way that will protect the health of our citizens while allowing foreign citizens in this category to enter Georgia.”

Remote workers wishing to embark on this exciting opportunity will be permitted to live and work in Georgia, provided they plan to stay for six months or more and can manage a 14-day quarantine at their own expense upon arrival.

This new policy is designed not for short-term travelers, but rather as an attractive option for long-term digital nomads seeking a safe haven during this unprecedented crisis. Importantly, the policy does not discriminate against citizens from countries heavily impacted by COVID-19. While more specific details and requirements are set to come, this initiative is already receiving positive feedback from those engaged in Tbilisi’s digital nomad community.

Elene Javania and Ketevan Ebanoidze launched the co-working space Impact Hub Tbilisi in 2016 when remote working was just gaining traction in the city. They are hopeful that this new visa scheme will foster a positive environment for both locals and foreign digital nomads, particularly during such challenging times. “The business-friendly atmosphere and affordable living costs are key to attracting digital nomads and freelancers. International startups can play a crucial role in Georgia’s needed economic growth,” they shared.

Candy Treft, who opened the co-working space LOKAL in December 2019, just prior to the pandemic, also remains optimistic about the influx of remote workers to Georgia. “In the past few days following the announcement of this initiative, we have seen a significant uptick in discussions about Georgia. Digital nomads are eager about the prospect of working and living here,” she emphasized.

Candy further elaborated on why remote workers could be instrumental to Georgia’s ongoing success as a travel destination, asserting, “Freelancers and remote workers tend to stay longer and engage with the community and culture more profoundly. Their influence on the Georgian economy is substantial, as they support local businesses, including shops, restaurants, and rental properties.”

Tom Williams from Expat Hub Georgia made Tbilisi his permanent residence in 2019 after multiple visits as a tourist. He draws favorable comparisons between Tbilisi and another popular digital nomad hub (despite the lack of tropical weather): “The cost of living is on par with Thailand, making life here quite comfortable. Unlike Thailand, however, Georgia actively encourages remote workers to choose this destination. The country has a supportive attitude towards mid- to long-term visitors with reliable income, allowing accommodation without constant concern about regulatory issues.”

The Georgian government is expected to release further details regarding the online platform where remote workers can submit their applications for the new visa soon.